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Tomahawks within reach of playoff position

The Lac la Hache Tomahawks are in serious contention for one of eight spots in the playoffs
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Tomahawks' Drew Rose

With just one game left in the Central Interior Hockey League's regular season, the Lac la Hache Tomahawks are in serious contention for one of eight spots in the playoffs.

After downing Quesnel Kangaroos 7-3 at the Rolf Zeis Memorial Arena in Lac la Hache on Jan. 7, Tomahawks coach Al Navrot says he thinks there's a good chance his team will earn a berth in the playoffs.

The latest win places them in sixth position, with only three teams within range of overtaking them by the end of the season.

The only thing for sure regarding the playoffs is that first-place Smithers Steelheads, and the top 3 after them - Kitimat Ice Demons, Williams Lake Stampeders and the Kangaroos - will make the cut.

The leagues last-place Hazelton Wolverines won't make the playoffs.

Navrot has had great faith in his fledgling team from day 1, and after falling to Quesnel three times prior to last Saturday's game, the sweet victory against the league's fourth-place team solidified it.

"It was no surprise; I always knew we could do it. We had a strong lineup and everything was working for us."

Tomahawks' Robin Gilbert racked up five points with a couple of goals and three assists to put him in second place in the league's scoring race.

Other players contributing to the Lac la Hache win were Drew Rose with two goals and Wade Balbirnie, Will Lowie and Bryan Adolph with one marker apiece.

It was a rough game, Navrot says, adding that at one time, each team had five players in the penalty box.

"There's always turmoil with Quesnel. They try to get you off your game."

He says the season has been one of hard work, stress and worry, but from it, good things surfaced.

"We've done well and proved that miracles happen. I'm grateful for the hard work that came from everybody. Taking Quesnel just shows our strength."