Spits caught in storm

by Mitchell Brandner

The situation speaks for itself.

Third game in four nights and five starters not dressed.

The Windsor Spitfires stayed with the Guelph Storm for a period and a half before the wheels fell off and fatigue set in before eventually falling 6-3 Feb. 3 at the WFCU Centre.

“We’re shorthanded on the back end,” said head coach Bob Boughner. “We tried some different things like putting Brady (Vail) back there (on defence) and put some kids who probably aren’t ready in unfair situations but we have no choice at this point in time.”

With the loss, the Spits remain five points back of the Saginaw Spirit for the final playoff spot. It’s crucial for the Windsor to remain focused and stay positive.

“Everyone has that playoff mentality,” said forward Alex Aleardi. “Every game we have to come out with a point.”

The Spitfires will be on the road for three straight games against teams who are at the bottom of the Ontario Hockey League’s Eastern Conference. Now is the time to make up some points.

“Tired is not an excuse anymore when we need points,” said Vail. “We have to start winning more games.”