Spirit Beat Bulldogs in Preseason Opener

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Saginaw Spirit

Spirit Beat Bulldogs in Preseason Opener

August 30, 2024 - Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Saginaw Spirit News Release


Kitchener, Ont. - The Saginaw Spirit opened their preseason showcase with a 6-4 win over the Brantford Bulldogs on Friday afternoon. Rookie Liam Campbell scored twice, Kristian Epperson notched two goals and an assist, and the goaltending combo of Andrew Oke/Sammy DiBlasi stopped 28 of 32 shots.

After Dylan Tsherna opened the scoring for Brantford in the first period, Michael Misa got the Spirit on the board with the team's first goal of the preseason. Graydon Jones and Kristian Epperson worked the puck to Michael Misa in the right-wing circle. His initial scoring chance was denied, but Misa banked the puck off the goaltender David Egorov from behind the net at 13:18 to even the score at 1-1.

Liam Campbell soon followed with his first of the preseason. Off a setup from PJ Forgione and Carson Harmer, the rookie beat David Egorov at 18:37 to make it 2-1.

The Bulldogs added a late goal, and the teams went back to the dressing room in a 2-2 tie after 20 minutes.

Kristian Epperson opened the second period scoring on a powerplay goal from the left-wing circle. Michael Misa and Will Bishop picked up the assists on the goal that made it 3-2.

Saginaw's scoring run continued just a minute later, when Liam Campbell scored his second of the afternoon on a rising shot from the wing. Kaden Sienko and Graydon Jones assisted on the 4-2 goal at 5:18.

To open the third period, Liam Storch scored the eventual game-winner after a soft tap into space from Lincoln Moore. The Spirit led Brantford 5-2 at the 2:27 mark of period three.

The Bulldogs added a pair of goals to draw close, but Kristian Epperson's empty-netter from Blake Barnes sealed the deal in Saginaw's first win of the preseason.

The Spirit will gear up for their second leg of the preseason showcase, a Saturday night meeting with the host Kitchener Rangers. Tomorrow night's contest from the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium starts at 6:00pm.

General admission tickets to Saginaw's home preseason contest are on sale now. The Spirit will face the Soo Greyhounds at 5:30pm on Sunday, September 22nd.

Saginaw's home opener and Memorial Cup banner raising ceremony will be Wednesday, September 25th at 7:05pm against the Windsor Spitfires. Tickets are on sale.

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