The 18U AAA matchup between Kootenay HA and Lethbridge United was a tight-checking affair decided by special teams and a late third-period surge. The game remained scoreless through a tense first period before the special teams units took over in the second. Kootenay struck first on the power play at the 18:01 mark of the middle frame, as Marcus de Zwart, wearing number 11, found the back of the net with helpers from Alex Johnson and Adam Shypitka. However, Lethbridge United answered back with a power-play goal of their own just under twelve minutes later. Delphin De Boer, number 96, converted with assists from Colin Fancy and Tyce Perkins to knot the game at 1-1 heading into the final period.
The third period saw the physicality ramp up, with four minor penalties called. Amidst the parade to the box, Lethbridge United found the crucial even-strength breakthrough. At the 11:56 mark, Tyce Perkins, who had an assist earlier, scored the game-winning goal, set up by Parker Bishoff and Colin Fancy. Kootenay HA, despite a valiant effort from goalie Kingston Cuell who faced a barrage of 35 shots, could not find an equalizer. The home team's attempts to pull Cuell for an extra attacker in the final minute backfired, as Lethbridge's Mason Noble, number 25, sealed the 3-1 victory with an empty-net goal in the final minute.
While Kootenay's Marcus de Zwart provided the offensive highlight, the story of the game was Lethbridge United's ability to capitalize on their opportunities and their defensive structure. Goaltender Drake Chester was credited with the win for Lethbridge, turning aside all shots he faced after the lone power-play goal. For Kootenay, the loss was a tough one despite a strong performance in net from Kingston Cuell, who made 32 saves to keep his team in contention until the final minutes.
14U AAA - HC Edmonton
14U AAA - Surrey Eagles HA
15U AAA - Bow Valley HC
15U AAA - Langley HA
