Steeler Enver Chan’s first goal this season was also the game-winner Nov 5. (Alistair Burns / Grandview Steelers)
Teammate Tanner Milne offensively breaks out with four-point night
BURNABY WINTER CLUB – If only November could last all season! In only two games so far this month, the Grandview Steelers have scored a total of 16 goals.
The latter contest occurred Nov. 5 at home against the Abbotsford Pilots, as the Steelers never trailed in a 7-3 final.
First-year Steeler defenceman Enver Chan scored the game-winner when he followed up a breakaway attempt by red-hot teammate Tanner Milne.
Chan saw the perfect opportunity to strike since no other Steeler was skating for a rebound. “So, I was like, why not? Right? Just take my chance [for an] easy tap-in,” he said.
Last season, the 18-year-old had a cup of coffee in junior when he played a few games for another Pacific Junior Hockey League (PJHL) club, the Port Moody Panthers.
During the off-season and the past three months of this year’s regular season play, Chan has adapted to the PJHL’s pace. His passing has also improved, especially when he attempts to “find guys in stride.”
Also, Chan’s beaming smile during warm-up reminds teammates and fans alike that hockey – though stressful – is a game where players should have a positive mindset.
“I strive to do that, every time,” Chan added.
Milne’s offensive clinic
Meanwhile, Tanner Milne scored twice and picked up two assists for a four-point night. The talented 20-year-old used his impressive speed to streak past numerous Pilots.
“Definitely, my number one goal is winning,” Milne said earlier in October. “I’m a very high energy player and I love to shoot the puck.”
Between the pipes, Steeler goalie Ronin Geraghty faced 38 shots and collected his sixth win of the year. He had a nervy moment when Abbotsford’s Jace Grabinsky and Cody Johnston scored three-and-a-half minutes party halfway through the middle frame to cut Grandview’s lead to 5-3.
However, Grandview’s Steven Konechny shot down any hope for the Pilots when he lit the lamp 94 seconds into the third period.
Standings update
As of press time (Nov. 6) the Steelers were placed fifth in the seven-team Tom Shaw Conference with a record of nine wins, six losses and two shootout losses for a total of 20 points.
Inside Steeltown post-game interview
Steeler defenceman Enver Chan chats about his Jr. ‘A’ experience so far.
