The Barrie Colts and Sarnia Sting played out a 0-0 draw in the Ontario Hockey League on Friday night. The result leaves both teams on zero points after five games, though their positions reflect different trajectories. The hosts remain in tenth place while the visitors sit in fourth.
I had predicted a home victory with some confidence, but the match simply didn't go that way. Both defences stayed organised and neither side could find a breakthrough in what was a cagey affair. The visitors looked dangerous at times but couldn't convert their opportunities.
The Sting's recent form has been mixed, with results going both ways. They beat Ottawa 10-3 last time out but also lost to Peterborough 7-4. Barrie have struggled more consistently, losing all five games so far including heavy defeats to Sudbury.
Neither team showed enough quality to separate themselves in this encounter. The home side will take heart from keeping a clean sheet against a higher-placed opponent. The visitors need to find more consistency if they want to climb the standings.
The result means both clubs remain winless after five matches. Barrie need to turn things around quickly at home while Sarnia must build on their occasional bright spots. The league table is still wide open with plenty of games remaining.
