Huskies squander early lead, lose in Beaverlodge

BEAVERLODGE, AB. — The Fort St. John Huskies win streak was snapped at two games after a quiet night on the offence in Beaverlodge against the Blades.

Despite having an early two-goal lead after the first period, the Blades – who split a season opening series against the La Crete Lumber Barons a game apiece – roared back in the second period, scoring three unanswered goals en route to a 3-2 victory over the pups on Friday, September 19th in Strike Group North West Junior Hockey League (NWJHL) action.

The Huskies opened the scoring at 13:39 of the first period on the power play with MacCoy Willms’ third goal of the year, assisted by linemates Ryan Ungstad and Grayden Alexander.

Fort St. John doubled its lead just over a minute and a half later, on a goal by Fin Reed assisted by newcomers Bevin Williams and Zander Underhill.

However, Beaverlodge – losers of three of four games versus the Huskies a season ago – bounced back.

Forward Ben Antonio started the comeback with an unassisted goal at 17:30 of the second frame. 

The Blades then tied the game on forward Kyler Watson’s third goal of the season, assisted by Adam Morrow and Sam Antonio.

Morrow had his second assist of the evening on the go-ahead goal, scored by Marshall Lefley at 14:07 of the second period.

While the Huskies were successful on the penalty kill they gave up 10 power play opportunities in the process. Huskies goaltender Evan Baker had 34 saves in the loss.

The Huskies will try to get back in the win column on Friday, September 26th against the Sexsmith Vipers at Sexsmith Arena. Game time is scheduled for 8 p.m.

More details about the Huskies are available on the team’s Facebook and Instagram pages and website.