
Hawks Win 6-5, Take 3-0 Series Lead
April 3, 2024 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Portland Winterhawks News Release
Victoria, B.C. - James Stefan tallied four points (3G,1A) while Josh Davies (1G,2A) and Luca Cagnoni (3A) posted three apiece to help the Winterhawks knock off the Royals 6-5 on Tuesday in Victoria. The win puts Portland one victory away from advancing to the second round of the 2024 WHL Playoffs.
A seesaw affair kicked off 6:03 into the contest when Teydon Trembecky broke the ice for the Royals. Pushing for the equalizer, Stefan netted his first two goals of the night in a span of just 1:13, giving Portland the 2-1 lead heading into the break. Davies and Cagnoni each picked up assists on Stefan's goals.
Victoria took control early in the second through Justin Kipkie and Tanner Scott, but again Portland responded late in the period. Josh Mori netted the equalizer at 16:49, followed by Stefan's hat-trick tally at 18:05 for another one-goal Portland lead at the break.
Like clockwork, the start of the third also belonged to the Royals through Casper Evensen Haugen's tying tally, but the Hawks began their push earlier this time and found twine twice in the middle of the frame. Davies ripped home one-timer on the power play for the team's third go-ahead goal of the night at 9:54, then a remarkable aerial pass from Cagnoni at his own goal line found Gabe Klassen in stride at the far blue line, and the captain made no mistake.
Tyson Laventure grabbed a late goal for Victoria to get his team back within a goal, but the Hawks held strong for the win. Jan Špunar posted 30 saves on 35 shots in the win, outdueling Braden Holt's 26-save effort for Victoria.
The two teams meet again tomorrow night in an elimination Game 4 at 7:05 P.M. in Victoria.
-- WINTERHAWKS.COM -
Western Hockey League Stories from April 3, 2024
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- Hawks Win 6-5, Take 3-0 Series Lead - Portland Winterhawks
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