The next tilt for the Selects was in the most unlikely of
places, Cairo Egypt . It wasn’t explained to the
players as to who their actual opponent was. Just that an ice rink had been set
up for this exhibition match. The coaching staff passes the word from the tour
organizers that this game was for the benefit of international relations.
Mekkar mocked them after delivering the news to the team. He joked, “It is just
some politician speak phrases to cover for the freshly arranged match against
probably some scrub club. After that, who knows what is next!”
Since the beginning of the worldwide hockey journey the team
members had been informed of current and possible developments only on a need
to know basis. At least it seemed that way when Mekkar, Lasse, and other
players were discussing this subject together. Mekkar snapped, “Those individuals
at the top are just toying with us and think it is hilarious.” He also audibly
expressed himself, in his original bold manner, regarding the player’s
frustration of the fact that anything was subject to change at any moment.
Unfortunately, for them it usually did without warning. Mekkar had the inkling
to find and beat a few answers out of one or more of those pencil pushers as he
referred to the Selects management.
Nevertheless, there was a perception that the coaching staff
was much better informed than were the players. It gave off an impression that
the coaches didn’t always tell all of what they knew regarding the behind the
scenes activities and shenanigans related to the tour. A few of the other
athletes tried to wring more details from members of the Selects staff but it
was unsuccessful. Mekkar scoffed out loud in the dressing room prior to this
matchup, “To somebody else’s whim we go!”
Mekkar pondered several thoughts before this game. It was
due to his belief that when you are not familiar with your opponent it is hard
to judge their skill quality and abilities. He never underestimated anyone.
Thus, the reason why the Native from the North always gave his full out,
maximum effort every game. Part of it was the abhorrence
of being part of a team that might suffer indignity and become a footnote in
history. He didn’t want to be on the wrong side in the list of great sports
upsets, ever. He figured no one wants that shame, especially him. Otherwise,
Mekkar would dish out an extensive physical whipping among his own teammates to
go along with the embarrassment on the scoreboard. His distaste of losing was
quite clear to everyone who knew him.
Sirga and Henrik had advised Mekkar on a few occasions that
it is okay to do a psychological job on your enemy for whatever reasons. For
him to look at it like marketing similar to hyping a boxing match or any type
of event. They also strongly infused their son to never disregard or
underestimate any opponent or combatant. It is foolish to do so they would
expound. Just when you think you know your foe, they can surprise you with
something new they learned recently was maintained to the teenager.
Due to the last match and the Selects injury situation there
was only six defensemen for this game, less than normal. So, Mekkar would be
suited up even though the staff wanted to scratch him from the lineup. The
wanted to hold him out for this match to let his hand heal more, so he could be
more effective later on. The Selects felt they didn’t really need him for this
matchup. Healthy game time scratches are usually known in hockey as Black Aces.
[blackaceshockey.com/origin.htm] The problem was there were no more forward or
defensive reserves left to insert into the lineup for tonight. The travel time
ensured that none could arrive on the horizon in time for the game either.
There was an exception, a non-dressed third string goalie. Trouble is, netminders
have their own unique standards and rules that most other players don’t fully
understand, including Mekkar.
After realizing how bad the opposing squad was skill-wise
the Selects would face on this night in comparison, the travelling team offered
the use of one of the Selects’ goalies for this clash. Since the netminders
were of a much lower quality than any of them on Mekkar’s squad. The rivals on
this evening were even given a choice of goalie selections to choose from, but
the Selects’ generous offer was refused. They figured that this way even the
backups could gain some more playing time and help provide a competitive tilt. The
Selects starting number one goalie was already scheduled to sit this match out,
so the other two on the roster could split the duties.
Mekkar himself was not expected to be available, but he was
needed so he was given minimal playing minutes. The members of the team, on the
non-top lines, who normally received less in-game shifts & time
substantially had theirs increased. The situation was similar to when a club
has already clinched a playoff spot near the end of the regular season. With
the second or post season seedings already set, top players get a break with
reduced minutes or complete rest to nurse injuries. That is, before the ramp up
of more grueling playoff action soon after.
No matter, the Selects non-top athletes clearly outclassed
the other team and were far superior on this night. To avoid humiliation upon
the home side and in the context of positive international relations the
coaches were instructed to have Mekkar & his teammates change strategy. The
Selects were commanded to work on puck passing skills and shoot less frequently
on the enemy net. The reality was the Selects would have had a more competitive
atmosphere between themselves in one of their own practices. The match itself
was still a total rout of great proportions.
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