Understanding The Rules

North Bay Battalion’s netminder was taught a valuable lesson following an overtime shootout that he should have known.

Never leave your crease until the play is over – completely over and stopped by the referee

During shootout against Belleville Bulls, a very controversial goal was awarded after the goalie was already celebrating a win with his teammates as he had left the crease area.

The goalie makes the initial save with his blocker, but the puck flies high into the air and after a short period of time comes down out of the air and enters the net.

As the ref watches the puck as it is slow to enter the net and barely trickles over the line.

After a quick consultation with the video, the goal was awarded and the Bulls would go on to pull out a win.

While the save was made the forward motion did not stop and you will notice the referee did not blow the whistle to indicate that the play was over.

This is a mistake several young officials make as they seldom get or have to make a call like this – so as a young ref, please be aware and know this rule.