Briercrest hockey sweeps MacEwan at home
Going in to today’s game with a high from last night’s win, Briercrest hockey had another great start full of energy. After starting their game with a more defensive style similar to yesterday’s match, Briercrest turned up the heat mid-way through the 1st period as they went on the power play. Just 28 seconds in and after only one other shot on net, Briercrest struck first as a scramble in front of the net left #7 Jacob Baribeau open to tap one past MacEwan goaltender. Minutes later a strong offensive push in MacEwan territory allowed #9 Taylor Epp to centre the puck for #10 Dirk de Waal who was able to put it in to put Briercrest up two to zero going into the 2nd period. Briercrest goaltender #1 Connor Dobberthien is looking excellent as he got his second start this weekend after a tremendous game yesterday. Just within the 1st period Dobberthien stopped all 19 shots by MacEwan.
An action packed second period saw its fair share of penalties for both Briercrest and MacEwan. Briercrest’s penalty kill looked exceptional throughout both the first and the second not allowing a goal on any of the three MacEwan power plays. An unfortunate scramble deep in the Briercrest zone late in the second period gave MacEwan what they needed to put their first past Dobberthien to put them down by only one. Another penalty late in the period for Briercrest left them going into the 3rd up by one but having to kill off another two minutes as they began the period.
A heart pounding 3rd period kept the fans at Barkman Arena on their toes as MacEwan looked to tie things up. While MacEwan came on hard through the full third period they were once again left with 18 seconds on the clock down by one and in a time out. A hardworking Briercrest rose to victory for a second game in a row, an occurrence that hasn’t happened in quite some time. The Clippers look extra hot as they look to finish off the season well, still with a chance to qualify for playoffs. Final score was 2 to 1 for Briercrest. Shots on net Briercrest 23 and MacEwan 52.
Players of the game: Briercrest’s #9 Taylor Epp with 1 assist, MacEwan’s #15 Ryan Benn with 1 goal.
Briercrest would also like to wish #27 Morgan McNeill a very happy birthday!
Briercrest hits the road next weekend and will play the SAIT Trojans in Calgary, Alberta. Friday’s game starts at 8:00pm Saskatchewan time and Saturday’s game starts at 3:00pm. You will be able to see a live stream at www.sportscanada.tv or find updates on the Briercrest Hockey Facebook page and on Briercrest Hockey’s Twitter.