Dundas takes 2-1 series lead

With a 1-0 win in Grimsby, Sunday night, the Dundas Blues earned a second straight win on their opponent's ice to take a hard-earned 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven Niagara District Junior C East Division final.

D.J. McConnell scored 6:43 into the first period, assisted by Kevin Dowling and Mike Peters. It turned out to be the only goal of the game - and the game-winner for Dundas.

Dundas goalie Shawn Krzykala had 34 saves for the shut-out win.

"Can't get much more exciting than the game tonight," general manager Steve Aglor. "Shawn had a great game in net for us."

Aglor credited head coach Mike Minard for the second straight game with keeping the young team calm and ensuring they stuck to the game plan - taking care of their own end first.

"Mike has everyone playing with confidence and it shows. He is a very positive influence on the bench, getting the most out of the players."

Both teams spent little time in the penalty box. Dundas served six minutes on three infractions, while Grimsby served eight minutes on four infractions. Neither team scored on a powerplay chance - Dundas with four powerplays and Grimsby with three.

Grimsby out-shot Dundas 34 to 29.

"Both teams worked hard with equal amount of scoring opportunities throughout the game," Aglor said. "We have to come out at home Tuesday night with the same effort and not let them back into the series."

After dropping the series opener to Grimsby in Dundas, the Blues won two games on the road to take the lead. The teams return to Dundas on Tuesday, March 9 - game time is 7:30 p.m. Game five is set for Friday, March 12 at Grimsby and the series returns to Dundas on Sunday, March 14.