CANORA - The U15 Highway 9 Predators, with players from Canora, Norquay, Preeceville, Sturgis, Kamsack and Buchanan, opened provincial playoffs at home with a 2-2 tie against the Esterhazy Flyers on Feb. 10.
“This marks the first time many players on our team played in provincials,” said Terry Demchuk, Predators coach. “The Esterhazy team is a top-four team in our league, were able to add four players for provincials and are very formidable team. It will take a total team effort to move forward to the next round.”
The Predators had 58 shots during Game 1, but could only get two past the Flyers goalie.
“It was an extremely fast-paced game in which the two goaltenders starred,” said Demchuk.
Emmett Lukey of Norquay was busy and made 36 saves on 38 shots in the Preds net, “but with second chances reduced,” said Demchuk. “We took a 1-0 lead into the first intermission and 2-0 into the second. In the third, Esterhazy were able to score on a power play and then on a broken play they were able to tie it with seven minutes left.”
Overall, Demchuk was pleased with the effort from his players.
“We played really well and out-chanced them, but left several pucks in the crease and on the goal line. Unfortunately, we were unable to finish and win the game.”
Gavin Erickson of Preeceville scored both goals for the Preds, the first on a setup from Nate Korpusik of Norquay, and the other unassisted.
“This was likely the fastest pace game we have played in this year and we are looking forward to the same effort for the return game.”
Game 2 was scheduled for Esterhazy on Feb. 15.
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