Alpena’s hockey team struggled to capitalize on key opportunities while Orchard Lake’s offensive pressure proved too much to handle.

Orchard Lake came out strong in the first period, scoring four goals and setting the pace early. Jacob Fedor opened the scoring with 13 minutes left in the first, followed by Julian Johnston’s goal at 9:57. The Eaglets dominated possession, frequently stealing the puck from the Wildcats while also racking up penalties. Adam Zielinski struck twice for Orchard Lake, netting his first with 3:51 left and adding another in the final seconds of the period.

Alpena found a brief spark late in the first when assistant captain Gavin Winterstein put the Wildcats on the board. Winterstein received a pass from Samuel Bastow and wasted no time, finding the net just over 30 seconds after Zielinski’s first goal.

“I blocked a shot at the point and it fluttered back into our d-zone,” Winterstein said. “I got a pass from Sam Bastow, protected the puck, and put it short side high.”

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Joseph Lacross skates to steal the puck from his opponent in Friday’s semifinals game in Plymouth where Alpena faced Orchard Lake St. Mary’s and lost 9-1.

Despite Alpena’s determination, the second period saw another goal from Johnston just over four minutes in, extending the Eaglets’ lead to 5-1. The Wildcats generated numerous offensive chances but couldn’t break through the Orchard Lake defense. By the end of the second period, Alpena trailed 5-1, with shots on goal favoring Orchard Lake 29-17.

The Wildcats ramped up the intensity in the third period, relentlessly attacking the net, but Orchard Lake’s defensive unit and goaltender stood firm. The Eaglets put the game out of reach with a flurry of goals in the final period, scoring four times in the last ten minutes to seal the victory.

“We just have to finish on our chances,” Winterstein said. “We had four breakaways back to back and couldn’t score any.”

Reflecting on the loss, Winterstein emphasized the need for composure in high-pressure situations.

“Relax. Everyone was nervous, and we never played our game. That’s what hurt us, and we need to work on the d-zone,” he said.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Garrett Hamp skates up the ice to try to score a goal against Orchard Lake St. Mary’s. The Alpena Wildcats lost to the Eaglets in Friday’s semifinals game.

Despite the defeat, the Wildcats’ season was filled with strong performances and growth. Winterstein praised his teammates, highlighting their work ethic and leadership.

“Nathan Paris has been my best friend since I was young and is a great, genuine person,” he said. “Lucas Weir is the hardest-working guy and an honest person. Preston Schuldt is always listening to teammates and looking to get better. Mike Kreis is the definition of a teammate, always there for you and willing to help. And Garret Hamp is a complete offensive weapon – if he has the puck, it usually ends up in the back of the net.”

Looking ahead, Winterstein remains optimistic about next season.

“Next year, I’m looking to make it past the semis and to the final,” he said. “I want to prove to the town and our coaches that we can win a state championship. For myself, my dream is to play Division I hockey, so I’m looking for any offers for juniors and college.”

The Wildcats finish the season with pride, knowing they fought hard against a formidable opponent. With a strong returning core and motivation for next year, Alpena will look to take the next step toward championship contention.