NZIHL - 2011 Skate of Origin - Game Report

The 2011 Skate of Origin game promised to be an exciting affair, pitting the New Zealand Ice Hockey League All-Stars of the North Island against their South Island counterparts. Over 35 players were selected, and this was also their last opportunity to impress for selection to the 2012 New Zealand Ice Blacks Team.

The game started with a fury, with both sides giving up scoring opportunities, generating offence and scoring goals at will The first goal came within two minutes of the game starting, and after ten minutes the score was deadlocked at 3-all. The final half of the first period saw both teams settle into their routines, and stepping up to play a bit of defence.

The second period was largely one-sided, with the North Island dominating play. They took advantage of a tired South Island team, and kept possession to the blue lines, and then dumped and chased to establish a good cycling game. This led to three more goals in the period (one by a penalty shot), to consolidate their lead to 6-3 after 40 minutes of play.

The third period saw a rejuvenated South Island, playing as though they had nothing to lose. The North Island started with a bit of complacency, but got their game together in time to shunt any South Island attempts at a comeback. With scoring done back and forth during the period, the game ended 8-6 for the North Island. Honourary captain, Brett Speirs lifted the Glass Family Shield for the North Island, cementing their third successive win in this prestigious event.