Oct 12, 2014 | Mike Dombek | 166 views
Short Bench
With the shortage of players in the division this season, it will be an additional challenge for coaches to manage the bench.
With 14 players on the bench this season, any missing body will present interesting challenges. Missing 3 players as was the case today, creates even more complexities. It will be more difficult for players to focus on one position. It will be more important than ever to ensure players are able to play multiple positions to allow for any combination of missing players.
The boys responded today by playing a very fast, high pressure, and defensively sound game. They kept their shifts short and conserved their energy by focusing on staying in their positions as opposed to running around the ice. They did, however, begin to tire in the third period which was to be expected and defensive lapses ensued. They made up for it with shear determination and were able to repel the opposition's pressure.
They took advantage of the opportunities at the other end of the ice as well and were able to gain a lead which they were able to protect to the finish. The boys should be very proud of their accomplishment with the short bench and hopefully take this forward to the next game.