2021-22 Playoffs

Round 2 - Express drop series 2 games to 4 vs PV

 

Game 6 (Loss) - With our backs to the wall the Express went into game 6 in Morris. Powers got the nod in net and played well, made some acrobatic saves to give Express opportunity for a win. The PV netminder had the same plan. The game was close as all the rest in the series with the Express having probably more quality scoring chances than usual but stuggled to find the back of the net when it needed. Delorme and Kotchon scored to keep the game knotted and send to OT but a deflected shot snuck by Powers for the game winner. A tough end for the season, especially for those graduating players. 

 

Game 5 (Loss) - Giving up 9 PP is no recipe for winning, Express kill 8 of 9 but need to stay 5 on 5 and start pushing thier game to beat PV. We have done it 4 times in regular season and twice more in playoffs so Friday night with our backs to the wall lets see if we can tie the series and come home for game 7 on Sunday. 

 

Game 4 (Loss) - Unable to solve the PV netminder and Express get shut out in game 4, 

 

Game 3 (WIN) - Express back in the friendly confines of East End Arena started slow but finshed strong to take the Twisters 4-3 in OT for a 2-1 series lead. Getting behind 2-0 after 1 and a third in the 2nd the Express kicked it up a notch to score a pair before the end of 2 with Kotchon and Johnson scoring. Then mid 3rd on the PP Grunsten scored his 9th of playoffs to tie the game. Shortly into OT Johnson stole the puck in our own zone skated 190 ft on a 2 on 1 and buried the winner as he was tripped to win game 3. 
 

Game 2 (Loss) - Game 2 was a back and forth affair with teams trading the lead multiple times through the game. PV forced the play a little better and as a result took game 2 with a 6-4 win. Grunsten netted a pair while his linemate Johnson scored SH and Van den Bussche rounding out the scoring for the Express. 

 

Game 1 (WIN) - Express win in OT - Welcome Back Riley Johnson

The Railer Express faced off against the Pembina Valley Twisters for game one of the best of seven semi final series Sunday afternoon at East End Arena. Riley Johnson was a welcome addition to the lineup, as he scored the overtime winner, to seal the victory for the Express to take a 1-0 series lead. Rounding out the scoring for the Express were Connor Grunston (6), Kyle Lamont (1), Conrad Solypa (4) and Johnson. Justin Powers got the win in net for the Express.

 

Playoff Game Results - EXPRESS win round 1 Series 4-1 

 

Game 11 — March 1 (OT loss) 
Express fall short and drop game 1 to a hardworking Knights team. Need to get the train back on the tracks for Sunday in River East. 
 

Game 2 — March 13  (WIN)
The train came rolling through River East as Express win game two - 6 to 3. Six different players score for the Express -  Delorme, Todoruk, Turner, Solypa, Matsumoto and Boonstra. 

 

Game 3 — March 15 (WIN)
It took awhile to stoke the locomotive but the Express took over late in the game. Solypa finshed off a rush in OT, taking the puck around the net and getting it behind the Knights' best player, who was between the pipes, for the 4-3 win and a 2-1 series lead. Express outshot the Knights 45-22. 

Game 4 — March 18  (WIN)
It took just over a minute into game 4 for captain Matsumoto to find the back of the net and put the Express up 1-0. Teams traded chances over the first two periods. Kotchon scored on a rebound to maintain the one goal lead after two. Then in the 3rd the train rolled over the Knights scoring 3 unanswered for the 5-1 victory. Grunsten scored on the PP and added an empty netter while affiliate player VandenBussche scored his first to round out scoring. Powers was solid between the pipes. 
 

Game 5 — March 20 (WIN) 
Powers gets a rare back to back start and makes the best of it backstopping the Express to a 4-1 victory. Delorme opened scoring late in the 1st followed quickly by Solypa to take the 2-0 lead. Kotchon stole the puck and slid the puck 5 hole while short handed in the 2nd and again very soon after Grunsten sealed the game with the 4-0 lead. 

 

March 6, 2022 – Express finish regular season with a victory and 2nd place

In the last regular season game for the Railer Express, playing shorthanded with half a dozen regulars out of the line up, the Express came to play and finished the season strong with a 5-2 victory over the Vics. All players stepped up their game, taking the play to the Vics with 42 shots on net and many glorius scoring opportunities.

Conner Grunsten scored his second hat-trick of the season and 30th goal of the year in the win. His line with Matsumoto and Todoruk accounted for 8 points.

 

Other goalscorers were full time defenseman Eori, moved up front for this shorthanded affair, who was rewarded for his efforts with the first goal of the game. The 4th and insurance goal was our 2nd on the PP scored by Delorme who stepped up from the point and his shot found the far corner to maintain the 2 goal lead.

 

Powers played as he and Arnie have all season, shutting the door on the Vics earning his 17th win of the season and 33rd for the Railer Express. 

 

The Express finish the season with 33 wins, 11 losses and one OT loss for 67 points. Now move on to the playoff that have eluded them due to the pandemic for the past two season. Our opponent for round 1 will be either River East or Ft Garry who finish thier season games in the next two days.

 

Looking for a strong postseason starting on Friday March 11th at East End Arena - game time is 8pm.

 

 

February 6, 2022 – Express rally falls short in first place showdown

 

A first place showdown was on the table Sunday afternoon along with a tribute to Jim Johnson, an important member and contributor to the Transcona community. Two fast teams who have played three games previously, all one goal games with the Express winning a pair of them. A season high 240 people turned out to cheer the Express and support the Johnson family.  

 

The Express opened the scoring 5 minutes into the game when our team leading scorer, Grunsten, was set up by Kotchon and buried his shot to get us on the board. A giveaway let the Canucks score right after to tie the score, then another late in the period allowed the Canucks to take a two goal lead after one period of play.

 

The second period was a better one, as we gained some momentum with more offensive zone play, forceing the Canucks defense and finishing checks. Unfortunately the only goal was a PP marker by the Canucks for a 3 - 1 lead after two. 

 

The Express picked up their game  even more in the 3rd but another PP goal by the Canucks gave them a 4-1 lead mid third period. With their backs to the wall the defense pinched hard, forwards created turnovers , cycled the puck and started to get some rewards with Mats scoring on the PP to narrow the score, but an untimely penalty with 5 minutes to go allowed the Canucks to net their 3rd PP goal of the game to regain the 3 goal lead. The Express didn't fold, scoring two goals late from Kotchon and Grunsten, with his 2nd of the game, to get back to within a single goal, Unfortunately time ran out in the late push. Canucks even the season series at 2 games a piece.

A few too many penalties and some careless giveaways were difference today.

 

Next home game is Friday Feb 11th at East End Arena against the Stonewall Jets at 8PM.

 

 

February 4, 2022 – Express rally in 3rd to defeat the Twisters 5-3

 

The Express have been in a funk for the past 5 games but only needed one solid period to jump 6 points ahead of the Twisters in the standings. We didn't start our Friday night much better than we have recently falling behind 2-0, letting the Twisters freewheel in the first period. Arnie was way to busy for our liking and didn't get the support from the guys in front of him. 

 

The second started much the same but we started to play with a little more urgency, finish checks and get pucks towards the PV netminder.  A bad break allowed for the Twisters to take a 3 goal lead but Kotchon got us on the board finding the top shelf after some pressure in the PV end from Grunsten and Turner, giving the Express the kickstart to crank up their game. The period finshed much better than it started with the Express starting to create some chances offensively, forcing the play and winning the battles for pucks. 

 

After killing off a penalty to start the 3rd Kotchon found Boonstra coming out of the penalty box for a quick break on the PV netminder. Boonie scored his 1st of the game on a second effort early in the 3rd, narrowing the gap to a single goal and set the tone for the rest of the period and game.  As we stepped up our game, taking the wind out of the Twister, we found ourselves playing more in the offensive zone when Grunsten found Johnson stepping into the slot who made no mistake to tie the game. In the final 5 minutes, Boonie scored his second of the game on the  PP giving the Express the lead for the first time in the game. In the last minute, Laden took a feed from Kotchon near centre ice and found the empty net has he took a viscious head shot from the reeling PV player to seal the win.

 

This victory solidifies our 2nd place standing ahead of the Twisters and claims the season series with the 3rd win over PV. 

 

Next home game is Sunday Feb 6th when the 1st place Canucks come to East End Arena for a 2pm matinee. The Express will be honoring Jim Johnson, our 1st coach for the Railer 45 years ago, former NHL player and valued community menber who recently passed away. Come early to get a seat as we honor Jim and make a presentation to the family. 

 

 

January 28, 2022 – A convincing victory was just what the doctor ordered

The Express came into tonight’s game on a three game skid but made no mistake righting the ship with a convincing 6-1 victory over the Riels.

Firing 18 shots at the Riels net in the first period alone, 52 on the night, the Express jumped out to a 4-0 lead after 1. Rookie Nardela netted his 4th of the year on a tip from a McCullough point shot to start us off. Shortly after we potted two more quick goals from Boonstra set up my captian Matsumoto, then Johnson from Chudley to take a comanding 3 goal lead. Before the period was over, while SH and killing a penalty, Kotchon forced the play in the nuetral zone, jumped on a puck and bust free for a break to net his 17th of the season and finish the first up 4-0.

 

The Riels scored early in the second, Arnie made a few big saves when the Riels grabbed some momentum, but Leeson was able to to regain the the 4 goal advantage when he ripped a bullet into the top shelf short side. 

 

He followed up with a nice give and go with Heide who scored his 5th on the backhand for the 6-1 lead and complete the scoring on the night.

 

The Riels goaltender was hot in the third preventing the Express from extending the lead. Unfortunately some chippy play ensued before the end of the game but we left the game unscathed and healthy for Sunday's tilt with the Twins.

 

Next weekend sees the Express play two important home games against the other top teams in the MMJHL. Friday we host the Pembina Valley Twisters who sit 6 points back of  us in the standings and follow with a Sunday afternoon game against the Cauncks who currently sit in 1st place, a single point up on the Express,.

 

 

January 23, 2022 – Hawks come to play, hand Express 3rd loss

 

The Express are battling through a midseason drought and came up against a team fighting for a playoff position on Friday. The Hawks came to play, they outskated and outworked us and handed the Express their 3rd defeat in a row. Coach Gagnon has his work cut out to move the players past this and get back on their game. Timing is okay with still 1/3 of the season to go, you want to be peaking in March heading into the playoffs.

Go Express Go.

 

Next game is Friday Jan 28th at home to the Riels.

 

January 16 and 21, 2002 games – Scoring slump and a two game set back

 

A mid January slump led to the Express dropping a pair of games to the Twisters and Vics, our first back to back losses of the year.

 

Understandably we can't be on top of our game every game, the Express have hit that proverbial mid season time when things do not go as planned, a few injuries in the line up and the bounces don't go in your favor. We are there!

 

Defenseman Solypa and forward Chats have been missing from the lineup for the past three games each and we look forward to their return shortly, maybe even Sunday. Opportunities have been there for us but missing the onetime shots, clutching the stick a little tight, taking some untimely penalties and neglecting some defensive responsibilities have led to the current situation over the last couple games but good to get out of our system now and set up the momentum for March into the playoffs. 

 

On Sunday Jan 16 we dropped a 4-2 decision to the Twisters in a game where our feet weren't moving and we can't expect to win if we don't play the full 60 minutes. The game waas still close until a lapse in the 3rd gave the Twisters a 3 goal lead and then we finally kicked up our game scoring one and spent the final 4 minutes peppering the Twsiters goaltender we could not finish and fell short.

 

Friday Jan 21st was a different game against the Vics. it was a fast paced end to end affair but some untimely penalties and lapses in defensive roles led to 3 PP goals for the Vics that propelled them to the victory. Again the finsh on plays and solid goaltending by the Vics netminder held us at bay for the 2nd loss in a row. 

 

The Express get back into action at home on Sunday Jan 23rd vs the Charleswood Hawks - 7pm at East End Arena.

 

January 14, 2022 - Express win battle of top teams with 5-4 win over Canucks

 

Friday night In St James was a hopping with the 1st and 2nd place teams in the MMJHL battling for that top spot. The season series was tied with each team winning 2-1 in the first two games against each other. 

 

The Express came out strong and scored in the first 20 seconds of the game when Chudley tipped in a Boonstra shot catching the Canucks goaltender flattfooted to open the scoring. Both teams had a tough time getting a flow in the game with a steady stream of players to the penalty box. The Canucks tied the score on thier first PP of the night, then not to be outdone, Boonstra rifled a shot on a feed from Mats to regain the lead. 

 

The second period contined right where the first left off with both teams playing with an edge. After the Canucks tied the score, Chudley scored his 2nd of the night when he was left alone in front and Kotchon found him for our 2nd PP goal. After trading chances through the period the Canucks managed to tie the score but then Todoruk's one-timer from Turner found the back of the net with less then 30 seconds in the period. Express headed to the dressing room with the 4-3 lead outshooting the Canucks 16 to 9 in the 2nd.

 

The Canucks came out flying in the 3rd period and teams traded opportunites. The top goaltender in MMJHL was up to the task and kept the Canucks at bay, stopping 1st and 2nd shots on multiple occasions. Then at the 12 minute mark Boonie made the Canucks pay for another penalty with a lazer from the left side that found the top shelf on the short side for the 2 goal lead and ultimate winner. With their netminder out the Canucks pressed hard and managed to get a 4th behind Arnie but that was all they could muster and the Express now lead the season series 2 games to 1 and sit a point back of the Canucks with a game at hand. 

 

Next home game is Friday Jan 21st at East End Arena against the St Vital Vics, game time is 8pm.

 

 

January 9, 2022 – Tight match against the Hawks

 

Sunday afternoon in Charleswood had a good end result but was not pretty at all. It was one of those games where passes hit everyone in the way, pucks bounced the wrong way, our feet were slow and not much was in sync but Powers stood tall and we battled when we needed to come up with a close 4 - 2 victory.

 

The first period was scoreless until late in the period when the Hawks were about to get a penalty and Johnson found Grunsten whose one-timer found the top corner. Even the water bottle went for a ride on that one.

 

Early in the 2nd with some pressure from McCullough & Turner, McCullough found Leeson who fired one through the Hawks netminder to give the Express a 2 goal lead. Some sloppy play allowed chances at both ends, then the Hawks picked off a pass and found the back of the net on Powers to close out the 2nd period down 2-1.

 

First shift into the 3rd the Hawks took advantage of some soft play and were able to tie the score and add some pressure to the Express. On the PP, Solypa had the seeing eye shot from the point that got through a crowd to put us up 3-2 where it remained until the last 20 seconds of the game when Kotchon found the open net for his third point on the night and seal the win.

 

Next home game is Friday Jan 21 at East End Arena against the St Vital Vics. 

 

January 7, 2022 – Express explode for 9 goals and Annie was perfect over Knights

 

On a cold Friday night in Riiver East the Express train warmed things up. After a slow start in the 1st it took until the last few minutes of the period to get on the board when Chudley buried his 10th of the season to open the scoring on the PP.  This was followed a couple minutes later with another special teams goal when Eori sent a 100ft pass from our own end to a streaking Chudley who scored SH on the breakaway to finish the 1st period 2 - 0.

 

The game started to gel in the 2nd for the Express as we netted another 4 goals that started with a point shot from Eori finding the back of the net. Following that, Solypa had several glorious opportunities on a PP, stepping in from the point three times, hitting the crossbar once and on the 3rd try found the twine for his 3rd of the campaign. Turner got in on the action finishing off a play from Solypa and Leeson then Johnson followed up on his 7th to take a commanding 6-0 lead into the 3rd. Fortunately the officials were able to keep the game in control once it was out of reach. 

We continued to skate and control the game in the 3rd outshooting the Knights 22 to 5. The line of Johnson, Grunsten and Todoruk each netted a goal in the 3rd to complete the 9-0 victory. 

 

Next home game is Friday Jan 21st at East End Arena vs the Vics, game time is 8pm.

 

 

January 4, 2022 – Express train thunders into 2022

 

With the holiday season behind us, the start of a new year and fears of what lies ahead, the Express kicked off the 2nd half of the season in grand style last night defeating the 3rd place Twisters 6 to 1.

 

The two week layoff seemed to suit the Express well, we came out to play, feet moving, lots of jump and firing on all cylinders. Captain Matusmoto finished off a nifty passing play with Johnson and Grunsten to put the Express ahead early. Their line combined for 11 points on the night as we peppered th Twisters netminder with 23 shots in the first period alone. Later in the first Johnson got his 1st of the night on another 3 way play with his linemates, then Grunsten finshed off the scoring in the 1st with a PP tally to give the Express a 3-0 lead at the first intermission.

 

The game started to get chippy in the 2nd but the Express maintained their composure.Johnson got his 2nd of the night streaking down the left side and sniping the corner on the PP for a 4-0 lead after 2.

The Twisters were able to solve Powers in the 3rd just after a PP of their own, but that was the only one they could muster on the night. Powers made some stellar saves and the defense moved away any of the trash around the net to prevent the Twisters from getting back into the game. Laden put the nail in the coffin with his 4th of the season, picking up a rebound on the point shot from Bruchanski then Leeson finished the scoring with our 3rd PP of the game. Nice start to 2022!

 

Express play the next two week away from home and return to East End Arena at 8pm on Jan 21st vs the St Vital Vics.

 

December 17, 2021 – Arnie leads Express into break with shutout

 

The Railer Express made good on our last game of 2021 on Friday night with a 3 nothing victory over the River East Knights. Our goaltending duo of Arnold and Powers is best in the league and finished the year with 1 goal allowed in the last two games, including the shutout in the last game for Arnie and a 1.5 goals against average and save percentages over .940. These are two important reasons the Express sit in the top of the league with the Canucks.

 

Friday night we started quickly as Kotchon buried a shot from the slot in the first minute to put us ahead. Only a few minutes later Kotchon found Boonstra and he made no mistake adding another for the early 2 goal lead. A couple penalties and some complacent play let the Knights stay in the game as the Express outshot them 18 - 5 in the first.

 

 The second period was scoreless as we only worked as hard as needed and lacked our finish to put this away.

 

The 3rd period players started trying to take liberties, a few penalties then player frustrations were bubbling over. Grunsten scored his 18th of the year later in the 3rd to put this game to bed and finish 2021 with our 21 win.

 

Thank you to all those who donated non-perishable items, those  were all taken over this week as the players will be helping at the foodbank, Monday, Wed and Thur.

 

Next home game is Tuesday January 4th at 8PM vs the 3rd place  Pembina Valley Twisters, This is the Nov 26th game that was postponed from the ice rain. See you in the new year. 

 

 

December 12, 2021 - Express win the rematch with Raiders

 

The Railer Express where looking to seek revenge from the previous meeting with the Raiders, where they suffered their third loss of the season. Both teams came out hard, but solid goaltending on both side kept the scoreboard blank for two periods. The Raiders came out in the third and scored early, but the Express replied three minutes later, with Kyle Lamont (3rd) being the recipient of a very nice three way passing play with Devon Matsumoto and Joel Delorme. The winner came at the the 13 minute mark when Express Nolan Van Den Bussche scored his first career MMJHL goal on a feed from Conrad Solypa and Connor Grunsten. Jason Kotchon (13th) scored on the open net to seal the deal 3-1, with the Express's 20th win of the season. League leading goaltender Justin Powers recorded his 11th win of the season stopping 18 shots.

 

Next action is Friday, December 17th,  at East End Arena when the River East Royal Knights pay a visit, as the Express close out the 2021 portion of the schedule.

 

 

December 8, 2021 – Rookie nets a pair for win in Stonewall

 

The Express rolled into Stonewall Wednesday night and it was the rookies that found the net for the win. Outshooting the Jets 16- 7 in the first the Express seemed to be in control. Rookie Nardella opened the scoring with his 2nd of the season for the 1-0 lead, but a lapse of communication between Arnie and defense with seconds left on the clock allowed the Jets to grab puck behind our net and stuff it in to tie the game. 

The second period saw the pressure continue on the Jets and the rookies capitalized for a couple. Heide led a rush and on a 2 on 1 found Nardella again and the young gun netted his 2nd of the game and 3rd of the season to regain the lead. Shortly after another group of rookies, Turner & Leeson moved the puck and found Chats alone in front who put us up by 2 after 2.

The 3rd period lacked the intensity needed to really put the game away and the Jets netted their second on a bit of a giveaway in our end and a shot the deflected to get by Arnie, but that was all he would allow. Express with their 19th game to only 3 defeats, 3-2 over the Jets. 

 

Next Home game is Sunday Dec 12th against the Raiders. Note the early start at 12:45 so everyone can get home to watch the Grey Cup. All fans are asked to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to each of our December games Donations will go to the Transcona Foodbank.

 

 

December 5, 2021 –Train not firing in Seven Oaks

 

Two games in 17 hours was not a good recipe for the Railer Express. We came out a little flat, missing passes, coughing up some costly giveaways early and unable to finish offensively dropping a 3-1 decision to the Raiders.

 

The first was delayed a little with a pane of rink glass shattering before the game, shortening our warm up. The Raiders took advantage of some miscues defensively and in a span of 2 minutes in the first period scored 3 goals which was all they needed for the victory. Todoruk managed to squeeze one goal in amongst theirs but that was all we could get behind the Raiders goaltender. 

Even outshooting our opponents 35-23 for the game, including 12-3 in the third period the finish just wasn't there.

 

Next home game is Sunday Dec 12th at 12:45pm at East End Arena in a rematch with the Raiders.

Remember to bring your tin for the bin, non-perishable food items to donate to the Transcona Foodbank.

 

December 4, 2021 – Express train rolling in Southdale

 

In a rare Saturday night game the Express came rolling into Southdale to take on the Riels. Though sitting at opposite ends of the standings the Riels always play a pesky and hardworking game. They opening the scoring on a rebound that found its way past Arnie and it took until late in the first for Johnson to tie it up. Even though we fired 18 shots to the Riels 7 in the first the period ended up tied at 1. 

 

As a PP finshed in the 2nd, Johnson tipped a Cambell shot from the point to find the back of the net for his 2nd of the game. Shortly after Grunsten displayed some nifty stickhandling, splitting the Riels defense and undressing the goaltender for his 16th of the year and a 3-1 lead after 2.

 

There were many scoring opportunities in the 3rd but it took until mid period when Leeson  was able to grab a Bartecki shot that missed the net, bouncing off the back wall and catch the goaltender out of position for his 5th goal of the year. The Riels managed to literally squeeze a shot by Arnie for thier second but then he shut the door for the rest of the game. Grunsten finished the scoring 3 seconds into a PP when Johnson won the draw to him and he buried the puck immediately for the 5-1 lead and finish the scoring.

 

Next home game is Sunday Dec 12th when the Raider come to Transcona. Remember it is a 12:45pm start so everyone can get to the their grey cup parties. 

 

 

November 30, 2021 – Express roll into Charleswood

 

A rare weekday game in Charleswood and the Express keep rolling with a 5 - 1 win over the Hawks.

 

The injury bug has hit and several Express players have been sidelined. Mats was sitting out his 3rd game, Chudley his 2nd while Laden and Johnson also sat out tonights game. This allowed many younger players to step up with more ice time and special teams play, including a couple of affiliate players, Nolan VanDenBussche and Kai Tymchak who both picked up a couple assists in the game.

 

Boonstra opened up the scoring shortly into the first period on some hard work and set up from VanDenBussche. Shortly after Boonie set up his linemate Grunsten who has struggled to finish in recebnt games but made no mistake to put the Express up a pair. Later in the first, Tymchak found Todoruk breaking in the neutral zone who picked up the pass in full flight for a breakaway and buried the puck under the bar for the 3-0 lead which is how the first finished. 

The Express controlled much of the play but Powers was steady between the pipes when called upon throughout the game. The Hawks caught a break and scored 7 minutes into the 2nd but Leeson made a nice tip on the point shot from Solypa on the PP to regain the 3 goal lead. The game didn't have good flow but the Express had several quality chances to increase the lead. In the 3rd period there didn't appear to be great urgency by either team Leeson pick up his second of the game on a second and thrid effort to finish a play.

 

 Express next home game it Sunday Dec 12th - 12:45pm at East End Arena. An early start on Grey Cup Sunday.

 

 

November 28, 2021 – Last minute goal needed for win #16 over the Twins

 

After a game postponed on Friday with the rainstorm that keep PV from travelling to the city, the Express played their only game of the weekend against the Ft Garry Twins on Sunday afternoon. Still missing our captain, Mats, we were also short a couple other forwards as Chudley and Chats are healing from a few recent injuries. Ian Friesen played his first game as an affiliate player and fit in well for his first MMJHL game. 

 

The Twins came on strong to start the game, Powers was on his game allowing the Express to get their legs going as the period evened out resulting in a scoreless first.

Kotchon opened the scoring early in the 2nd with his 12th of the season but the Twins tied it up on the very next shift. Mid second period Lamont outraced the Twins defender to prevent a potential icing call and then found rookie Nardella who fired his first goal of the year, his first in the MMJHL to put the Express up by a goal again. The 2nd period was a wide open run and gun show with each team firing nearly 20 shots each on the opposing net.

 

Early into the 3rd the Twins jumped on an opportunity to tie the game once again. We had many good scoring opportunities but failed to finish the plays. With the 3rd period heading into the final minute, the line of Grunsten, Boonstra and Johnson, who had several glorious chances though the game,  finally were able to notch the game winner with 55 seconds to play. 

Three minor hockey teams, a U9, U7 and female U13 team were in attendance with their parents and  were treated to an entertaining game. One of the parents was also the lucky winner of the Vickar Shoot to Win - winning a lease on a Chevy Silverado from Vickar Auto Group. 

 

Note the early start for our next home game on Sunday December 12th, 12:45pm at East End Arena against the Raiders Jr Hockey Club. This is Grey Cup Sunday and the early start will let everyone get home in time to watch the Blue Bombers repeat as Grey Cup Champs.

 

 

November 21, 2021­- Canucks take the rematch & end 14 game win streak

 

The headline was rematch of the top two teams who played a fast, highly skilled game that ended in a shoot out a week ago,  but Sundays match didn't live up to the billing. The score was the same except in favor of the Canucks but the game's flavor was much different. A week ago both teams battled hard but there were only a couple minor penalties for each team so the game flowed from end to end, then Sunday there were 20 penalties which alone changed the type of game.

 

The Canucks came to play and were relentless, If we could have taken advantage of a couple PP opportunities the outcome may have been different. We did miss the speed and leadership of our captain Deveon Matsumoto who was out with an injury and then lost Chats to injury on a high hit left us a little short on our front end. 

 

The Express opened the scoring on an early PP when Boonstra finished of a quick feed from Grunsten only seconds into the PP but that was the only time we could solve the Canucks netminder.

 

The Cauncks tied the score in the 2nd and then on a 5 on 3 in the 3rd took the lead for the win.

 

It was invitiable to happen after winning 14 previous games in a row that we would lose one. It is time for the Express to reflect and refocus to get the train back on the tracks and it all starts on Friday Nov 26th  when the 3rd place Pembina Valley Twisters come to East End for an 8pm game with the Express. 

 

November 13, 2021 - Express keep rolling, 13th win in a row over the Knights

 

On the 2nd game in two days the Express showed no signs of fatigue taking on the River East squad in the friendly confines of East End Arena. The best player on the Knights was probably thier goaltender who faced nearly 60 shots. The first period alone he faced 17 and it took until late in the period for captain Matsumoto to solve him and open the scoring. Shortly after, several Knights tried to take liberties on our top scoring line and all 6 were removed from the game. The depth of the Express was evident as they continued to press and control the game.

Matsumoto took over scoring on the first shift in the 2nd and then again shortly after on the PP to put us up by 3 on his hat trick after 2 periods. 

Shorthanded 5 on 3 to start the 3rd and the Knights were able to get a PP goal but only a minute later, also on the PP rookie Turner got his 2nd of the season to regain the 3 goal advantage. With a chippy game developing a few more PP goals were scored by Laden and Matsumoto, with his 4th of the game, to blow the game wide open. Turner was able to pot his 2nd of the game to round out the scoring and the 7 - 2 victory. 

 

The Express host the 2nd place Canucks next Sunday November 21 at 2pm at East End Arena. This promises to be an exciting match up between the top 2 squards in the MMJHL. 

 

November 12, 2021- First meeting of top 2 teams goes to the Express

Friday November 12th was the most exciting game of the year as the Railer Express and St James Canucks, top 2 teams in the MMJHL, met for the first time. It was the type of game that lets you know you are alive, the heart was pounding and you were on the edge of your seat the entire game. This one even included and extra 5 minutes of OT and still not settled until Mattie Boonstra was able to solve the Canucks netminder, for the 2nd time in the game and the winner in the shootout. 

 

The Canucks jumped out to an early lead in the first couple minutes when a screen shot, the only one of the night, got past Arnold for an early 1-0 lead. The pace of this game was quick, both teams were skating, fast transitions and good skill both offensively and defensively. Though not alot of goals there was no shortage of opportunities for both teams with several goal posts and strong netminders to keep the scoring to a minimum. 

In the 2nd period, Grunsten threw a 100 foot pass off the wall that eluded the Canucks defenseman and allowed Boonstra to get behind with a clear path to the net, finding the twine and tying the score. The pace continued, although both teams were battling hard for position and pucks the game was well played and clean as neither team wanted to give up a PP to the other. 

 

As it should, this game went to OT, still wide open for the 3 on 3 - goaltenders and defensive play stood tall. Going to the shootout Arnie stoned the 1st two shooters when Boonie got up for his attempt, he made no mistake and scored his 2nd of the night to put the Express up for the 1st time. Arnie shut down the last shooter as he did all night and sealed the win in probably the best game we have seen all year. 

 

Look forward to the rematch net Sunday, Nov 21st against these same Canucks at 2pm in our rink.

 

November 7, 2021 – Hawks rally but Express find a way for the win

On a beautiful November Sunday afternoon a good crowd was treated to a close MMJHL battle and some McDonalds fries as our new sponsor, Ryan and Janine McCullough, owner of the 3 McDonlds in Transcona sponsored this game. Even though the standings show a wide gap as the Express sit in top position and the Hawks near the bottom, the game was much closer. 

 

Grunsten continued his scoring streak opening with his 14th of the season in the first minute of the game to put the home team ahead. The Hawks found a way to the Express net and after a couple chances were able to bury their own to tie the game in the middle of the 1st but then later in the period on the PP Kotchon put the Express ahead to close out the first with the 2-1 lead.

The Express continued to pepper the Hawks net and drew a penalty early when Matsumoto finished off a nice feed from Grunsten for our 2nd PP goal of the game and a 2 goal cushion.

Shortly after, while killing a penalty, Kotchon found himself on the offense and ripped a shot under the crossbar for a SH marker and increase the lead to 4-1. Late in the 2nd the Hawks continuing to battle and a couple defensive miscues lby the Express ed to their 2nd of the game for Charleswood and closed out the 2nd down 4-2.

 

The Express came out firing in the 3rd throwing 18 shots on the Hawks net but it was the Hawks off a faceoff who were able to close the gap and make it a one goal game. We had a tough time trying to solve the Hawks netminder in the 3rd and required Matsumoto's speed to outrace the Hawks defense for a loose puck and find the twine into an open net to seal the win, the 11th in a row for the Express.

 

The Railer Express next home is a rare Saturday evening tilt against the River East Knights, game time is 7pm at East End Arena.

 

 

November 5, 2021 – Express firing on all cylinders for 10th win in a row.

The Express train rolled into Seven Oaks Arena on Friday night and continued their winning ways with a convincing 8 to 1 victory over the Raiders. Goaltending has been rock solid this season with a superb tandem of Powers and Arnold. Arnie got the start and with only a single goal allowed led the Express once again. 

Assistant captain Kotchon got the Express going on a seeing eye shot from the wall that caught the Raiders by surprise and fired up his teamates. A minute later Heide stepped into his familiar spot, sliding into the slot off the point and Grunsten found him with a perfect feed and Heide made no mistake scoring his 4th of the season. Turner got his 1st of the season, his first in the MMJHL, on the PP set up by Delorme. Late in the first, Boonstra spotted Solypa also stepping in from the blueline and the big dman made no mistake putting the Express up by 4. The Raiders jumped on an opportunity right after to net their only goal and went to the dressing room with the Express leading 4-1.

Early into the 2nd frame Matsumoto found Grunsten in the high slot and the Raiders goaltender had no chance on his one timer under the crossbar. The PP continued to get chances and a Grunsten shot from the left hashmark bounced of a few players and ended up in the net, goal was awarded to Conner but Chudley's presence in the crease helped get the puck over the line. Kotchon was the recipient of a puck overskated by Leeson and Boonie and he hammered a lazer to give the Express the commanding 7-1 lead on 15 shots in the 2nd period alone.

The 3rd was less eventful but the rookie Todoruk scored his 4th of the season finishing off a nice pass from Chateauneuf. 

The Railer Express will be looking for their 11th win in a row at their next home game Sunday November 7th against the CHalreswood Hawks - 2 PM at East End Arena. 

 

October 31, 2021 – Crazy train rolling in the 3rd for win over Riels

The Express made a visit to St Boniface for a matinee match on Halloween. The pesky Riels came out fast and pushed the game in the first but Powers was rock solid, making a couple outstanding saves to keep the game scoreless after one. 

 

The Riels continued to get some chances in the 2nd and Powers continued his solid performance, controlling any rebounds, battles in his crease and even a couple clear breaks. The Riels netminder also held the Express train at bay until Chudley was able to solve him on a feed from Mats to open the scoring mid second period. The Riels caught a break and got behind our defense for their only goal of the game, then the train picked up speed. Heide stepped up into the slot and buried  nice feed from Kotchon for the 2-1 lead. With less than 30 seconds left in the period Grunsten found himself on a breakaway only to be stopped but continued on the play and with 3 seconds left found himself in alone again to net his 10th of the season and put a dagger into the Riels game.

 

The Express train came out flying in the 3rd as Grunsten scored early on a set up from Chudley and Mats for his second of the game. We pushed 16 shots on the Riels net with many more chances in the 3rd. The line of Lamont, Laden and Nardella were a force all night, shutting down any line they faced, cycling the puck and controlling the play and were rewarded when Monte scored on a set up from the rookie Nardella. Twenty seconds later Kotchon found Boonie who one timed a lazer to the top corner that the Riel tender had zero opportunity to stop. Chudley finished the scoring with his second of the game, our seventh, for the 7-1 victory.

Railer Express next home game is Sunday November 7th 2pm at East End Arena against the Charleswood Hawks

 

October 28, 2021 - Grunsten leads Express to 8th win in  row

 

A big night for Conner Grunsten in St Vital as he scored three recording his first hat trick and lead the Express to a 5-3 victory over the Vics.

 

Heading into tonight's game the Express were riding high on a 7 game win streak. Good news for the game that assistant captain and leader on the defense, Conrad Solypa, was healthy and would be back in the lineup after missing a few. Though not always visible on the scoreboard his savvy presence was truly welcomed back. 

 

Boonstra opened the scoring on the PP in the first, firing a shot through a perfectly set up screeen by Turner. Unfortunately the Vics replied with a PP of their own only a couple minutes after to knot the game at 1 after 1.

 

It didn't take long into the 2nd for Eori to find a wide open Grunsten in front of the Vics net, Conner made no mistake with the goaltender at his mercy. Again less than a minute later the Vics stormed back to tie the game. This started the Express rolling, veteran defenseman Delorme ripping a shot past Vics netminder to take the lead for a third time, but this time to stay. Late in the period Grunsten got the insurance marker on a great forecheck effort by Chudley who chipped the puck to Grunsten heading to the net and he made no mistake. 

 

Early into the 3rd the Vics pulled to within one but Express limited them to 8 shots in the period and Grunsten slid in his 3rd of the night from Chudley again to round out the scoring.

 

Express next home game is Sunday 2PM Nov 7th at East End Arena against the Charleswood Hawks.

 

October 22 and 24, 2021 - Winning streak continues with a pair over the weekend

Oct 22 against the Riels and 24th vs the Twins proved tough games against feisty opponents but the Express prevailed with 2 more wins to extend their winning ways and stay tied for 1st in the MMJHL with an 8 and 1 record. 

In both games the 1st periods were dominant ones for the Express but scoring in that opening frame was challenging against the Riels Grunsten and Kotchon found the net in the first for their 5th and 6th goes respectively. The second period looked a little different as the Riels pushed the pace and we did not respond. This resulted and a PP marker plus a couple others for a three-goal outburst from the Riels and all we could manage in response with a single tally buy the rookie Todoruk for his 2nd of the year. The game with to the final period knotted at 3.

 

The Express kicked it up and fired 16 shots at the Riel goaltender who kept them in the game until captain Matsumoto drove the net with 42 seconds to go and bury the game winner. 

The game against the Twins on Sunday evening in Ft Garry had a similar feeling. Opportunities early but payoff came later as Grunsten opened the scoring once again from Chudley in the first, Todoruk slid a sneaker in off a skate in the 2nd and the game was still tied after 2.

 

Finally in the 3rd we were able to take the lead for keeps on a great snipe by Heide who stepped in from the point to take a nifty pass from Grunsten and bury his shot under the crossbar for what proved to be the game winner. With just under a minute to go, Kotchon and Laden found themselves on a 2 on 1 break with the empty net(nobody went offside) and Kotch unselfishly slid the puck to Laden who skated in untouched from the blueline to deposit the insurance goal into the empty net. 

 

These two wins bring our record to 8 and 1, tied with PV for top spot in the MMJHL. 

Next home game is Sunday Nov 7th - 2pm at East End Arena against the Charleswood Hawks. 

 

October 17, 2021 ‑ 3rd Shutout in a row as Express defeat Vics 3-0

The Railer Express are riding three perfect defensive games winning their fifth in a row, third in a row shutting out thier opponents. Our tandem of goaltenders in Powers and Arnold have a combined goals against average of 0.50 in 6 games this season so far. 

 

This afternoon in the friendly confines of East End Arena we continued this stellar defensive game, out shooting the Vics 14 - 3 in the first period. Kotchon opened the scoring on the PP only 4 minutes into the game, taking a long feed from Solypa and beating the Vics tender cleaning from the right side dot. Only 2 minutes later pressuring the Vics, Kotchon found a wide open Boonstra who finished the play knotching his 4th of the season, also assisting on the play was captain Matsumoto.

 

The second period saw a little pushback from the Vics who were still unable to penetrate our defense and Powers cleaned up anything coming his way. Though minimal special teams play, our PK, led by veterans Lamont and Laden not only shut down passing lanes, Monte also spring loose for a breakaway while SH. Later in the 2nd, Monte finished his check in the offensive zone and fed a streaking Heide who jumped into the slot to bury his 1st of the year to add the insurance marker. 

 

We held the Vics to 6 shots in the third and maintained the 3 goal lead to finish the game 3-0. The Express have a week to prepare for our next home game against the Riels who come into our barn on Friday October 22nd.  

 

October 16, 2021 - Railer Express Grounds Jets, 5-0

Goaltender Dylan Arnold was perfect as the Express shut out the Stonewall Jets 5-0 Friday night at Ed Golding (East End) Arena. A great shift by the line of Kyle Lamont, Michael Laden and Noah Nardella was rewarded with Lamont (1) getting his first of the year and Laden and Nardella picking up the helpers. The first intermission saw the Express up 1-0. The second the Express came out firing on all cylinders and scoring 3 times. Jeremy Chateauneuf(1) scored his first career MMJHL goal with Mattie Boonstra picking up the helper. Evan Chudley(4) scored on the powerplay with Captain Devon Matsumoto and Conrad Solypa providing the helpers. Conner Grunston(4) closed the off the scoring at the end of the 2nd with Nardella and Laden credited with the assists. Express went to the 2nd intermission with a comfortable 4-0 lead. The 3rd saw Dylan Arnold (3-0) shut the door to pick up his first shutout off the season and the Express's 2nd in a row and Grunston(4) banging in his 4th of the year, to close out the scoring, with Liam McCullough and Boonstra chipping in with assists.   

 

Next up for the Express(5-1-0) is Sunday, October 17, at 2:00 pmwhen the St. Vital Victorias pay a visit to the Ed Golding (East End) Arena.

 

October 8, EXPRESS vs Raiders

The Railer Express where in action this past Friday taking on the Raiders. Express came out firing on all engines in the first and went to the intermission with a 2-0 lead on goals by Evan Leeson(2) and Connor Grunston(3). Express outshot Raiders 21-5 in the opening frame. The second period provided no scoring, with Express goalie Justin Powers making some key saves to keep the Raiders off the board and the Express went to the dressing room in the second intermission holding a 2-0 lead. The third was dominated by the Express, again totally out playing the opposition and outshooting the Raiders 23-5. Conrad Solypa(3) scored a beauty on a mid ice solo dash to put the Express up 3-0. Joel Delorme(1) and Michael Todoruk(1) completed the scoring to give the Express and Powers their first shutout of the season. For Todoruk, a first year player from Transcona, it was his first MMJHL goal.

Express are off for a week returning to East End, Friday, October 15th, when the Stonewall Jets will provide the opposition.

 

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