For supposed underdogs, the Langley Lightning have some bite.
The atom C1 girls hockey team rolled past archrivals Surrey C1 Falcons 9-1 in the final March 6 at Sportsplex, to capture the Pacific Coast Amateur Hockey Association Red Group female playoff banner.
It was a very satisfying win for the Lightning as they entered the post-season as the dark horse. During the round robin portion of the playoffs they finished with a 3-1 record, including two big wins over a Vancouver C1 squad that was the favourite to win it all.
By finishing the round robin with the best record, Langley earned the right to host the championship final against Surrey C1.
Nicole Nordal scored the first of her four goals on a breakaway in the first period. Nordal’s quick wrist shot beat the Surrey goaltender blocker side to put Langley up 1-0.
The Falcons came on strong at the end of the first period, forcing Langley goaltender Callie Marchant to make some great saves to keep Surrey off the scoresheet.
Early in the second period, defenseman Samantha Peebles crashed the net and put in her own rebound to score the first of her two goals and put the home team up 2-0.
Langley had strong play at the centre position from Julia Clauzel, who scored once, and Kayla White who had numerous chances.
Also scoring for Langley was Katelyn Fuchs and Madeline Craig.
As a game wore on, the entire Langley team continued to work hard, frustrating the Surrey players.
Langley coaches Steve Clauzel and Greg Fuchs had their team peaking at just the right time.
“I am extremely proud of how far the girls have come this season,†Clauzel said. “The heart and desire that they played with all season was exemplified in their final playoff game.â€