Royals Earn Fourth Consecutive Win With 5-3 Victory Over Cougars
Published on December 9, 2023 under Western Hockey League (WHL)
Prince George Cougars News Release
PRINCE GEORGE, BC- In a nail-biting matchup at the CN Centre, the Prince George Cougars faced a 5-3 setback against the Victoria Royals on Friday, despite outshooting their opponents 38-21.
The game showcased a strong offensive performance from both sides, with ten different Royals contributing to the scoresheet. Dawson Pasternak led the way for the Royals, registering a goal and an assist, while Zac Funk spearheaded the Prince George attack with two goals and an assist.
The opening period set the tone for the game, as the Cougars registered 14 shots on goal, but 20-year-old goaltender Braden Holt's stellar performance kept the scoreline level.
The second period witnessed an explosive offensive display from the Royals, scoring three goals in quick succession within the first 73 seconds. Tanner Scott, Dawson Pasternak, and Ben Riche each found the back of the net, prompting a goaltending change for the Cougars. Ty Young entered the game to relieve rookie goaltender Josh Ravensbergen.
Despite falling behind, the Cougars fought back valiantly. Zac Funk, the league's leading scorer, netted two goals within ten minutes, and Riley Heidt tied the game at three with a goal at 18:15. The second period ended with a 3-3 tie, with Prince George outshooting the Royals 13-8.
The final period saw the Royals capitalize on a Prince George turnover, as Casper Evensen Haugen fired in his sixth goal of the year unassisted. Ryan Spizawka added another goal at 13:54, securing the 5-3 victory for the Royals.
Despite having opportunities on the power play, the Cougars were unable to mount a comeback. The Royals claimed their fourth consecutive win heading into the rematch tomorrow night.
FINAL SCORE:
VIC: 5 PG: 3
FINAL SHOTS:
VIC 21 PG 38
POWER-PLAYS:
VIC: 0-0 PG: 0-2
GOALTENDING:
VIC: Braden Holt - 60:00 - 35/38
PG: Josh Ravensbergen - 21:13 - 8/11 / Ty Young 35:15 - 8/10
3 STARS:
1.PG: Zac Funk (2-1-3)
2.VIC: Dawson Pasternak (1-1-2)
3.VIC: Casper Evensen Haugen (Game Winning Goal)
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