YARMOUTH, N.S. – You could not have scripted a more exciting final to the Cook’s Cup high school hockey tournament held in Yarmouth this past weekend.
The Prince Andrew Panthers and Sir John A Flames met in the championship Dec. 17 game.
The teams were even at 2-2 after the second period with shots on goal at 17 for each team. It stayed a tie until the final minutes of the game when the Panthers were sent to the box with just over three minutes left on a four-minute head contact call. The Flames were able to capitalize on the man advantage, going up 3-2.
But the Panthers kept fighting. Their persistence paid off when with 16.2 seconds left on the clock (which was adjusted to 18 seconds) they were given a penalty shot following a takedown on a rush to the net. Prince Andrew was able to score, sending the game to overtime.
After a scoreless overtime the game went into a shootout with the Panthers emerging the Cook’s Cup champions with the 4-3 win.
Ten boys teams took part in the tournament, which was presented by title sponsor Pleasant Supplies Timber Mart. Only one of the local teams made it to the quarterfinals, with Barrington meeting Park View. The win went to Park View. Barrington had a win and two ties in the round robin.
The Par-en-Bas Sharks were the next closest local team to almost reach the quarterfinals, but the Sharks fell short 3-1 to Avon View in their last game – a win they needed to advance. The Sharks also had a win and a loss in the round robin.
Other local teams were co-host Yarmouth (who went 1-2), along with Clare (0-3) and Digby (1-2).
The semi-final matchups on Sunday morning saw Prince Andrew defeat Dartmouth and Sir John A defeat Park View, setting the stage for the final.
GIRLS PLAY
In the three-team girls division the Yarmouth Vikings were able to capture the Cook’s Cup title with a 4-0 victory over the Par-en-Bas Sharks. The PEB girls won both of their round-robin games. The third team in the girls side of the tournament was East Hants.
The tournament presented an economic boost to the area by filling up hotel rooms for the weekend, with local eateries along with retail also benefitting. During the opening ceremonies o the tournament special tribute was paid to the Grade 12s from all teams.
Many local businesses, groups and individuals supported the event with sponsorships and donations.
The event also served as a fundraiser for the YCMHS and Par-en-Bas boys hockey programs.
