The Auckland Mako took the ice for the very first time this evening, in the opening round of the 2021 New Zealand Ice Hockey League season.

In a packed Paradice Avondale, the Auckland Mako faced off against the West Auckland Admirals in what was a highly anticipated game for both teams.

For the Auckland Mako, the game was the culmination of many months of hard work to develop the team, which gives under 23 aged players an opportunity and entry point in to the NZIHL. Supported by their older mentor players, the team showed their determination to excel in the 2021 season from the moment the puck dropped.

Goaltender Barr Bialik had a standout performance, with a mammoth 54 saves from 57 shots (94.7%), earning him the 2nd Star of the game. Andrew Hay scored the only goal for the Auckland Mako at 56:48, assisted by Joseph Orr.

A physical and hard fought game, the management team and fans alike were very impressed with the offering from the Auckland Mako in their very first game together as a team.

Final score: 1:3 in favour of the West Auckland Admirals.

The team takes to the ice again tomorrow, for their second game of the weekend against the Botany Swarm.

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View the full NZIHL schedule, game statistics and purchase tickets here: https://www.nzihl.com/schedule/