Steeler Ben Ruthven showed his on-ice creativity with three goals Oct. 22. (Alistair Burns / Grandview Steelers)
BURNABY WINTER CLUB – In a tight contest with numerous changes of momentum, a 20-year-old veteran in his final junior season took full advantage of his increased confidence and ice time.
Grandview Steeler Ben Ruthven was the man of the hour. His hat trick propelled the home side to a 7-3 victory over the White Rock Whalers Oct. 22.
Since Ruthven joined the Steelers a year-and-a-half ago, the talented forward appreciated the extra opportunities to be a “little bit more creative” on the ice.
“I didn’t really feel that I can take credit for that win,” Ruthven humbly acknowledged. “Our whole team bought in.”
‘Number one goal is winning’: Milne
Ruthven was right. His teammates did buy in: Tanner Milne also scored two goals.
“Definitely, my number one goal is winning,” Milne pointed out. “I’m a very high energy player and I love to shoot the puck.”
Milne, 20, found his happy place early. Seven minutes into the first period, he opened the scoring on the power play. The Steelers never looked back, thanks to Grandview netminder Ronin Geraghty’s sublime night.
His refusal to back down in his crease while the Whalers peppered him with 46 shots led to Geraghty’s fifth win between the pipes.
At press time, Oct. 23, the Steelers had a record of seven wins, four losses and two shootout losses for a total of 16 points – that’s fourth place in the seven-team Tom Shaw Conference.
Improved special teams
The Steelers had a lethal power play with a 50 per cent conversion rate (2-for-4); the penalty kill was perfect, as the Whalers failed to capitalize on three separate man advantages.
Inside Steeltown post-game interviews
Steeler Ben Ruthven on his transition from playing in Richmond to Grandview.
Steeler Tanner Milne chats about his goals for this season (his last chance for junior glory).
CCM Three Stars
Third star: WR # 15 Dylan Heer (one goal, one assist).
Second star: GRA # 12 Tanner Milne (two goals).
First star: GRA # 10 Ben Ruthven (three goals).
