The Woodstock Navy Vets earned a big two points on home ice Saturday night, defeating the Listowel Cyclones 4-2 in front of a lively Minor Hockey Night crowd at Reeves Community Complex.
Woodstock built a 4-1 lead through 40 minutes and received a stellar performance from Landyn Quirk between the pipes to close out the victory against a Listowel team that entered the night riding a three-game winning streak.
It was also a big night for defenceman Colby Branton, who led the way offensively with a three-point performance from the blue line.
Vets Strike Early
The Navy Vets wasted little time getting started.
Recent addition Maddyx Chaput opened the scoring early in the first period, finding the back of the net for the first time in a Navy Vets uniform.
Just a few minutes later, Evan Giannone converted on the power play to extend Woodstock’s advantage to 2-0.
Listowel responded midway through the opening frame to cut into the lead, but the Vets carried a 2-1 advantage into the first intermission.
Woodstock Builds the Lead
The Vets added to their advantage in the second period.
Colby Branton walked in from the point and found the back of the net to restore Woodstock’s two-goal lead.
Then, at the 11:39 mark, Jaxon Bagshaw converted a rebound on the power play to make it 4-1.
The power play struck twice on the night, helping Woodstock take a three-goal advantage into the final 20 minutes.
Quirk Shuts the Door
Listowel wasn’t finished.
The Cyclones converted on the power play early in the third period to pull within two and continued looking for a way back into the game.
But the Navy Vets held their ground.
Landyn Quirk was excellent in the Woodstock crease, stopping 24 of the 26 shots he faced and providing a steady presence as the Vets protected the lead.
Woodstock closed out the remainder of the third to secure the 4-2 victory.
Three-Point Night for Branton
It was an impressive night from the blue line for Colby Branton.
In addition to scoring Woodstock’s third goal, the 2009-born defenceman finished the night with three points, playing a major role in the Vets’ offensive attack.
Branton’s performance highlighted a strong night from the Woodstock back end as the Vets picked up an important home victory.
A Great Minor Hockey Night in Anchortown
Saturday was about more than the final score.
The stands at Reeves were filled with young hockey players wearing their team jerseys and teamwear as the Navy Vets celebrated Minor Hockey Night, presented by Crabby Joe’s Tap & Grill – Woodstock.
The organization would like to thank Crabby Joe’s for helping make the evening possible and all of the minor hockey players, families and fans who joined us for a great night at the rink.
Anchortown — did you enjoy that one? ⚓️
Thank you for bringing the energy and making Minor Hockey Night a special one.
Right Back at It Sunday
There’s little time to celebrate.
The Navy Vets are back in action Sunday night as they hit the road to Chatham for the third game of a busy three-game weekend.
After defending home ice against Listowel, the Vets will look to carry the momentum with them on the road.
