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WHL Saskatoon Blades

Blades Spoil Show in Swift Current, Win Third Straight

February 9, 2019 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Saskatoon Blades News Release


It was the third straight win for the Saskatoon Blades on Saturday night, a 4-1 victory over the Swift Current Broncos on the road. The win improves the Blades overall record to 33-13-8-0 on the year while extending their recent point streak to 7-0-2-0.

THE SKINNY

The opening period had a playoff feel in the cozy confines of the sold-out Innovation Credit Union I-Plex in Swift Current. The energy sparked an early altercation just 1:12 into the game between the WHL's two leaders in fighting majors; Saskatoon' Riley McKay and Swift Current's Matt Stanley. Things would settle down after that as neither team found the back of the net in the opening frame. The Blades had the only power play in the period but failed to capitalize.

Gary Haden finally broke the scoreless tie midway through the period with his 26th of the season. Dawson Davidson and Max Gerlach kept their point streaks alive with assists on the play. The Broncos were quick to respond, though. Tyler Lees (2) tied the game at 1-1 43 seconds later which held up into the second break. The Blades lead 29-15 on the shot clock

Riley McKay (9) scored what was the eventual game winner for Saskatoon midway through the 3rd period on a wraparound goal; Kristian Roykas-Marthinsen and Tristen Robins added the helpers. Max Gerlach (33) added insurance with a slick breakaway goal courtesy of Gary Haden. Then Cyle McNabb (6) put the final nail in the coffin with an empty net marker in the final minute.

Nolan Maier reached career win number 50 with a 24 save performance in goal as the Blades outshot the Broncos 38-25. Saskatoon went 0/2 on the man advantage and killed off the Broncos' only power play opportunity.

TOP PERFORMERS

Max Gerlach: 1 goal, 1 assists, 2 SOG, +2, 1st star

Gary Haden: 1 goal, 1 assist, 6 SOG, +2

Riley McKay: 1 goal, 3 shots, +2, 5 PIM

NOTEWORTHY NUMBERS

Nolan Maier earned his 50th career win with a 24 save performance, sitting 3rd in the WHL with 27 wins on the season.

Gary Haden's 2 point effort runs his personal point streak up to 7 games.

Max Gerlach scored for a fifth consecutive game, extending his point streak to 10 games.

UNSUNG HERO

Riley McKay gave his team energy with an early fight and was provided a physical presence throughout the game. He also scored the game winner giving the 19-year-old winger points in three straight games.

UP NEXT

The Blades return home to host the Brandon Wheat Kings Sunday afternoon at SaskTel Centre at 4:00pm.

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Western Hockey League Stories from February 9, 2019


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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