Major bantam selects open against Caledon rivals

The Caledon major bantam select Blackhawks opened their 2007-2008 season at the new barn in Caledon East against arch rivals The Caledon Lightning.

Both teams were eager to get going as was evident by the speed and tenacity exhibited during the opening period. Persistent pressure by the Blackhawks was rewarded when Mike Bellisario found the back of the net from playmakers Christian Bonaldi and Warren Stroud. Both teams new this was going to be a physical game. Solid checks were delivered by both sides.

The Lightning, however, ended up in the penalty box first. The Hawks then racked up their 2nd goal on the power play when Harry Gaebler converted some fancy passing from Christopher Rotondo and Damian Commisso. Sensing that the Lightning were in a state of shock Coach Joe pressed home the attack and was rewarded when Vincent Maiolino finished a nice feed from James Harkins to put the Hawks up 3-0 at the end of the 1st period.

Second-period action continued to be dominated by the Blackhawk playmaking trio of Gaebler, Commisso and Harkins, resulting in Harkins's first goal of the season. Robert Kaszeg scored his first goal of the night due to the hard work of new defenceman Zachary Moszynski. It wasn't until late in the period that some sloppy play in their own zone allowed a shot from the point to slip by goaltender Torrey Glendinning, for the Lightning's lone goal.

Angry that the shutout was lost for such a bad mistake the Hawks cranked it up another notch. Not satisfied with a four-goal lead defencemen Stroud and Anthony Gasbarre combined with Kyle Sammut who stuffed home goal number six. Keszeg closed off the scoring with his 2nd goal of the night from linemate Justin Lollino.

This team is looking forward to an exciting season this year. Don't miss out on the action and come out to support your Blackhawks Saturday, Oct. 6 at 8 p.m. at the Sheardown Arena in Bolton.