Hancock center Tevin Stukel and Calumet center Cam Anderson set up for a faceoff during the first period of a game Tuesday at the Houghton County Arena in Hancock. (Daver Karnosky/Daily Mining Gazette)
Hancock Bulldogs Beat Calumet Copper Kings 6-3 in Local Hockey Matchup
Hancock, MI – In an intense local matchup between the Hancock Bulldogs and the Calumet Copper Kings, the Bulldogs came out on top with a 6-3 victory. Both teams showed moments of brilliance but also struggled at times during the game.
Slow Start:
The Bulldogs got off to a slow start in the first period, allowing the Copper Kings to score the opening goal. However, the Bulldogs quickly regrouped and tied the game. Despite not being fully satisfied with his team’s performance, Bulldogs coach Pete Rouleau took the blame for their slow start.
Mental Mistakes:
The Copper Kings also struggled with mental mistakes throughout the game. After scoring a goal, they often allowed the Bulldogs to respond quickly, undoing their own progress. Copper Kings coach Dan Giachino acknowledged the mental aspect of their performance and recognized the need for improvement in this area.
Defense Shines:
Sophomore defenseman Todd Kilpela played a crucial role in Hancock’s victory, contributing a goal and two assists. Coach Rouleau praised Kilpela’s ability to read the game, move the puck effectively, and make timely plays.
Game Highlights:
– Cam Anderson and Tevin Stukel scored for Hancock to equalize after the Copper Kings’ opening goal.
– Kilpela capitalized on a fortunate bounce to give the Bulldogs the lead.
– Jackson Sintkowski’s breakaway goal extended Hancock’s lead in the second period.
– Nathan Londo scored for the Copper Kings, but Ben Keranen responded with his first career goal for the Bulldogs.
– Matt Frantti’s goal for the Copper Kings narrowed the gap, but Stukel and Brady Axford secured the win for Hancock.
Missed Opportunities:
The Copper Kings had their chances to get back into the game, but their power play struggled, going 0-for-3. Giachino acknowledged that his team paid for their mistakes and missed opportunities.
Looking Ahead:
Both teams are now preparing for the MIHL Showcase in Trenton. The Copper Kings will face Bay City, while Hancock will take on Forest Hills Northern-Eastern.