Not long ago, the Mission City Outlaws were sitting dead last in the Pacific Junior Hockey League standings. This year has been a dramatic turnaround season.
Through 23 games, the Outlaws have a record of 18-4-1, with an goal differential of +43. They lead the Harold Brittain Conference Standings by eights points over the Abbotsford Pilots.
This seasons success is based on the unstoppable one-two punch of David McGowan and Bryce Pisiak. In 23 games, McGowan has 39 assists and 46 points, and Pisiak is leading the league with 29 goals and 47 points.
The Mission Leisure Centre stands were packed Saturday night as the Outlaws crushed the Richmond Sockeyes 8-4.
“The Outlaws home record (10-1-1) is largely based on the consistency of fans coming out to watch the team. It gives the guys an extra boost going into every home game,” said one fan. An anonymous fan watching the game said, “It is great to see the young kids coming out to watch the games since they are the next generation of Outlaws.”
The Outlaws are the most penalized team in the PCHL. In a game against the Langley Knights on Sept. 24, the Outlaws team combined for 149 total penalty minutes and a number of game misconducts.
Displayed against the Sockeyes on Saturday was more physical play by the Outlaws. First-year forward Nick Costanguay put on some huge hits in the offensive zone while fore-checking and defenseman Kyle Lennea hip-checked a number of Sockeyes along the defensive zone boards.
If you need something to do on a Saturday night, drop down a $5 bill and watch the Outlaws at the Mission Leisure Centre. This year, the team never fails to impress.
