WHL Saskatoon Blades

Rally in Regina Falls Short in Overtime

January 26, 2020 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Saskatoon Blades News Release


Regina, SK - Playing in their third game in as many nights, the Saskatoon Blades were edged by the Regina Pats in overtime after rallying from behind twice to earn the consolation point on Sunday evening.

The hosts jumped out to a two-nothing lead in the opening period, despite having to kill two penalties within the first 10 minutes of the match.

The Blades responded in the second frame, as Tristen Robins' 22nd goal of the season kick-started the comeback and stood as the lone goal for the period. He redirected a Nolan Kneen point shot that was set up by Kyle Crnkovic.

Saskatoon opened the scoring in the third period to tie the game for the first time as Scott Walford valiantly drove through traffic in the slot to score on a play that looked more like a touchdown than a hockey goal. He was fed by Crnkovic, who finished the night with two assists, and Colton Dach who extended his active point streak to five games (2G-4A).

The tie game wouldn't last long though as Regina quickly answered just over a minute later with a goal of their own to get their one goal lead back.

Radek Kucerik brought the Blades back into the fold at the middle of the period with his third tally of the year. He followed up on a rebound created by Alex Morozoff's shot off of a rush.

The score remained locked at 3-all the for the rest of regulation, though the Blades had a handy power play opportunity with 2:17 left.

The comeback was not to be, however, as Cole Dubinsky took advantage of Nikita Sedov's subtle interference on Chase Wouters at the point, allowing Dubinsky to find an open shooting lane and claim the winner in overtime.

Both teams failed to score a power play goal during the evening, with the Blades now having killed 19 penalties straight dating back to January 11th against the Prince George Cougars. Saskatoon has also now outshot their opponents in six straight games, finishing this evening with a 36-22 edge over Regina.

2020 NHL Draft prospect & rookie netminder Koen MacInnes made 18 saves in his 8th straight start.

Tristen Robins was honoured in the post-game ceremony as third star. He finished the game with a goal, +2, 7 SOG & 12 FOW.

The Saskatoon Blades will have Monday off before tackling former Blade Gary Haden & the Victoria Royals for a shot at another two points on Toonie Tuesday, January 28th at SaskTel Centre. Pop & popcorn are just $2 all night long, and if you buy one ticket at Will Call, your second is just $2! Doors open at 6pm.

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Western Hockey League Stories from January 26, 2020


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