ANTIGONISH, N.S. - The Heatherton Warriors and Pleasantdale Panthers have struck first in Antigonish Rural League playoff action.
In games played Feb. 16 at the Antigonish Arena, it was the Warriors all over the County Outlaws to the tune of a 9-0 final; while the Panthers also posted a goose-egg, blanking the St. Croix Angels 4-0.
Josh Robertson led Heatherton with four goals and an assist in the win while veteran forwards Ricky Bowie and Mike Tobin each enjoyed three point games (Bowie one goal, two assists – Tobin three assists).
Craig Bowie, Johnny Mattie and Logan MacDonald each scored once, while Devon Swinkels and Kory Tate each recorded two helpers.
Luke Melanson picked up the shutout in goal for the Warriors.
Brandon Verge had the big game for the Panthers as he was in on all four goals (one goal, three assists).
Jeremy Sheppard scored twice for the Panthers while Brian MacDougall added a goal and assist and last year’s regular season scoring champ, Garrett Lambke, picked up three assists.
Brandon MacDonald earned the shutout manning the pipes for the Panthers.
The best of seven series resume tomorrow (Feb. 23) night at arena, starting with the Pleasantdale versus St. Croix game at 7 p.m. Puck drop for the Heatherton versus County game is 8:30 p.m.; and it’s the same schedule for the following two Saturdays (March 2 and 9), just with the series alternating starting times.