By Mitchell Ferreira

The visiting SAIT Trojans proved too hot to handle for an injury-depleted Briercrest squad, defeating the home team 10-1 in Friday night action at the Barkman Arena.

Facing a perennial powerhouse in the Trojans, Briercrest got off to a strong start in the first, yet it was the visitors who made it on to the scoreboard first, scoring two quick goals. After a couple chances with the man-advantage, the Clippers were able to answer with a goal of their own, courtesy of Jacob Baribeau. Assisted by Luke Robitaille and Micah Abbott, Briercrest’s goal came on the powerplay, putting them one goal back of the Trojans. Unfortunately for the home side, SAIT was able to answer with one of their own, tipping a shot past Briercrest goalie Connor Dobberthien. The first period ended with Briercrest down two.

Briercrest opened the second on the powerplay, but it was the SAIT Trojans who capitalized with the shorthanded marker, delivering a big blow to the Clippers’ hopes. It proved to be a difficult frame for Briercrest, who allowed four more goals, the last of which coming with a man in the sin bin. Briercrest sent four men to the box in the second, killing off three of their penalties. Further making things difficult for the Clippers was their play in the neutral zone, as they struggled to make passes in the middle of the ice. Maintaining control of the puck in the offensive zone was also an issue.

In the third SAIT added two more, all while being down a man five times. Despite the unfavourable score, Briercrest maintained their resolve in the final frame, continuing to block shots and generate chances. The highlight of the period came on the penalty-kill, with Dobberthien declining the breakaway bid of the Trojan player. His poke-check came just after Stephen Langford nearly scored at the other end of the ice. Making an astounding 56 saves, the first-year Clipper was solid in net. He saw the puck well all game, making many saves through traffic. Leading Briercrest in shots was Stephen Langford, who put seven pucks on net over the course of the contest.

Players of the game were Riley Paterson for the Trojans (3 goals, 2 assists and 2 PIM) and Jacob Baribeau (1 goal) for the Clippers.

 

Game notes: Shots were 66-17 for the Trojans, with SAIT goalie Brayden Hopfe registering 16 saves. On special teams, the visitors went 1 for 6, with the home team going 1 for 8.

Briercrest resumes play against SAIT at 2 PM on Saturday at the Barkman Arena. You will be able to see a live stream at www.sportscanada.tv or find updates on the Briercrest Hockey Facebook page.