Courtesy: Huskie Athletics
Bear taming

Early power play goals lift Huskies to victory.

Oct 21, 2022 | 10:35 PM

Two Huskie newcomers played a huge role in the latest chapter of a storied rivalry on Friday night. Saskatchewan defeated the Alberta Golden Bears 5-2 in Canada West men’s hockey at Merlis Belsher Place. First year centremen Cael Zimmerman and Liam Keeler scored power play goals 5:15 apart to give the home side a 2-0 first period lead. The pair were brought in by the Huskies to create speed through the middle of the ice, and on Friday they didn’t disappoint. The early goals had the visitors playing catch up hockey for the rest of the game.

5th year defenceman Shane Collins scored his third of the season in the second period to help the Huskies take a 3-1 lead. While his goal proved to be the winner, Collins shared his thoughts on Zimmerman and Keeler. “Those guys are real good. Responsible too. They play a well rounded game, and It really helps us.” Both teams started with a fast paced brand of hockey, but as the game went on, the Huskies dictated play. Jared Dmytriw and Ty Prefontaine scored third period goals for Saskatchewan.

Every goaltender plays better with the lead, and that was the case for 5th year keeper Roddy Ross who made 23 saves. The former Regina Pat has five wins, seven games in to the Canada West season. Goaltending was an issue for Ross and his teammates last year. That’s not the case so far this season. “I want to hopefully do some damage in the league this year”, Ross said. “It seems to be under control here. I just have to keep doing my thing.” Ross also credited back up goaltenders Jordan Kooy and Declan Hobbs for the early success. “I have two great goalie partners who always have may back. They are great guys.”

The Bears/Huskies rivalry is always intense, but the home team was able to keep emotions in check. Saskatchewan was 2 for 4 on the power play, while Alberta was 1 for 3. Leadership from Saskatchewan’s veteran defensive players also factored in to the victory. Huskies such as Evan Fiala, Connor Hobbs and Collins limited high quality chances from Alberta.

With the win the Huskies leap frog in to top spot in the Canada West standings, one point ahead of the Golden Bears. “Any time you can take points away from them, (Alberta) it’s a good day”, said Collins.

The two teams meet again on Saturday night at 7pm at Merlis Belsher Place. The game can be heard on the free HuskieFAN app.

wray.morrison@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @wraymorrison

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