In his first game as a King on October 10, Mathew Rathbone scored twice in a 7-3 win against the OCN Blizzard.
And just five days later, he scored two more goals against the Virden Oil Capitals in a 4-3 win. So the 20-year-old from Alberta certainly made a big difference to begin his time in Dauphin and he’s even been a hero during his time with the team.
Against the Waywayseecappo Wolverines last Friday, Rathbone scored the overtime winner in a 2-1 victory as Dauphin enters a home-and-home against the Swan Valley Stampeders.
In just eight games this season, Rathbone has scored six times and he has 11 points.
“Part of the reason why Doug brought me here was to put up points,” said Rathbone. “That and playing a physical brand of hockey, which I believe I have done. I’m happy with the start and I love being a part of this team.”
The man they call ‘Ratty’ comes over from the Weyburn Red Wings of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League, where he played five games last season. And the 20-year-old is no stranger to putting up big points.
While playing with the Edson Aeros of the Western States Hockey League, Rathbone scored 36 times in 44 games and he also had 48 assists for an 84 point total while racking up 122 penalty minutes.
Rathbone who plays on the top powerplay line alongside Brayden Dube and Kaden Bryant will be back on the ice Friday against the Stampeders. Swan Valley is known to play physically which is just fine with Rathbone who also likes to.
“I’ve heard it’s a great rivalry and I’m looking forward to doing whatever I can to help us win, that’s all that matters,” said Rathbone.
Get to know Rathbone:
What are some of your hobbies? I like playing cards and I watch hockey pretty much every night
Favourite professional teams? I used to be an Oilers fan but they were struggling a bit back so now I’m a Flyers fan
Favourite movies? That’s hard to say, I like a ton but I’m certainly an action movie kind of guy