The Killam Wheat Kings of the NEAJBHL are tied with the Wainwright Bisons for first place heading into this weekend of action.

The Wheat Kings travelled to Wainwright on Tuesday, Nov. 10 to face off against the then-unbeaten Bisons, who were seven points ahead of Killam in the standings. Killam outshot Wainwright 46-36, and were 3 for 13 with the extra attacker; shutting the Bisons power play down 0 for 7.

Luke Grassl was in the net for Killam and came up with some big saves for his team late in the game.

These teams have no love lost between them and every game is a physical battle resulting in a few tilts and player suspensions to both teams.

The Killam bench was very short midway through the third period and gas tanks were looking low but they fought through it and came up with a final score of 6-2 and a big two points.

Killam Coach Bob Charchun says, ”The guys were ramped up for this one and were ready for the challenge. We took a lot of time and space away from their skilled players and frustrated them. Grass stood tall when he had to and we supported one another all night. A great team effort.”

The Wheat Kings hosted the Vermilion Tigers on Friday, Nov. 13 and came away with a 7-1 win. Killam outshot the Tigers 41-25.

Tanner Watkins was solid in net for the Wheaties and picked up the Subway player of the game for his efforts.

Charchun says, “Vermilion plays a very frustrating style of hockey, as they work so hard and make you earn everything. Our team responded well and played through the frustration. Watty played very well as did the Lang line leading the offense.”

The Cold Lake Ice came to Killam on Saturday, Nov. 14. Killam out shot them 40-35.

Luke Grassl was in net for the Wheaties. Both teams power play was shut down, with the Ice having six chances and Wheaties three.

The Wheat Kings were flat from the start but pushed through and came up with a win.

There was no scoring in the first. Killam was first on the board on a goal by Dean Brodie.

The Ice scored three in the period, and Killam answered back late on a goal by Craig Lynes, to make it a 3-2 game after the second.

The Wheat Kings came out in the third and scored three to make it a 6-2 final.

Charchun says, ”Our guys found a way to win. Cold Lake played an excellent road game and out-worked us for the majority of the first half of the hockey game.

“The boys dug in and had a tremendous third period. Craig Lynes was outstanding, leading the way with heart and hustle and the game winner.

“Kyle Sanders provided his usual grit and determination and scored two big goals for us as well. As a team, hard work is our foundation right now and it’s paying off.

“There is lots of season left and many of the lower-ranked teams are starting to make a push. We have to be ready to play every night.”

The Wheat Kings travelled to Vermilion for a mid-week game on Wednesday, Nov. 18, winning 3-1 and tying Wainwright for first place.

Friday they host Saddle Lake at home, and then head to Lloydminster on Saturday.

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Jae Robbins
Staff Reporter