Canadiens embrace rest before Schmalz Cup semi-finals

The Lakeshore Canadiens were riding a fun wave and earned a well-deserved break heading into the Schmalz Cup semi-finals.

After rallying from a 3-1 series deficit to eliminate the defending division champion Essex 73’s, then sweeping the Mt. Brydges Bulldogs, Lakeshore has earned a rare stretch of rest before facing the Tavistock Braves.

Canadiens following sweep of Mt. Brydges. Source: Lakeshore Canadiens Facebook

Head coach Brent Walker says the break couldn’t come at a better time. “It’s well-deserved and well-earned. That’s for sure,” Walker told Powerplay Sports. “It’s good to kind of take a week off here and regroup."

The time off gives the team time to practice and watch tape before the next round.

The Canadiens’ playoff run has been defined by resilience. With their backs against the wall for much of the Essex series, Walker credited his group’s belief and work ethic for pushing them through.

“I mean, backs against the wall for five games there, and they’ve worked extremely hard,” he said. “The belief in that room has been outstanding, and they’ve earned every right to be here so it excites me. I’m excited for them.”

After the reset the Canadiens will square off against Tavistock, a team that battled through a seven-game division final before dispatching the Dundas Blues in five games.

Walker says his group is eager to get back on the ice and continue the run. The semi-final series is set to begin Sunday in Lakeshore