Smithers Winning Streak Stopped at 9 as the Luckies Defeat the Steelheads. Final rematch will be January 10th, 2009 in Houston.

The Steelheads lost 4-3 on Saturday night to the Houston Luckies.
(Dec 27th, 2008)

The Houston Luckies, with some stellar goaltending by Don Kenzel stalled the Smithers Steelheads' progress at the top of the East Division, with a 4-3 win. While goaltending made a difference, Derek Dinelle's return to join brother, Blair and Jon Marren allowed the line to combine for nine points to win the squeaker in Steelhead territory.

Don Kenzel stole the show, stopping 42 Shots to Jamie Deba's 24. The Steelheads controlled much of the play but could not score on Kenzel. Two goals were disallowed for the Luckies, the first one when the net was dislodged and the second was directed with a skate. There was not much of an argument on that one.

Steelheads started the scoring with Ian Smith assisted by (Matt Arnold), Luckies answered back with one by Alonzo Slaney assisted by both Dinelles. Five minor penalties were called in the period, two to the Steelheads and three on the Luckies.

Shots on goal were 13 for the Fish and 7 for the Luckies. Period ended 1-1

Luckies started the scoring in the second with a Blair Dinelle goal, assisted by (Jason Bassani), Steelheads answered back with two of their own. The second goal was scored by Tyler Pederson (Ty Koldyk, Blake Parker) the third by Dylan Becker ( Kyle Young, Randal Groot). Again five penalties called in the second, two for Steelheads and three on the Luckies. Shots on goal were 17 for the fish and eight for the Luckies. Period ended 3-2 Steelheads.

In the third Steelheads seemed in control until Luckies tied it up, again a goal by Derek Dinelle (Blair Dinelle, Jon Moran).

Steelheads responded but again the Luckies scored a go-ahead goal by Blair Dinelle (Derek Dinelle, Jon Moran).

No penalties in the third, shots on goal were 12 for the Fish and 9 for the Luckies. Final shot on goal were 42-24 for the Steelheads. Final score 4-3 Luckies.

The Luckies now lead the season series three games to two, with the final meeting scheduled for Jan. 10.