In a commanding performance at the Junior Prospects Hockey League, the 14U AAA South Sask HC squad skated to a decisive 4-1 victory over the Lloydminster Athletics. The game remained scoreless through a competitive first period, despite South Sask HC outshooting their opponents 14-11. The deadlock was finally broken late in the second period when Lloydminster's Tucker Strain, assisted by Scarlett Aultman, found the back of the net to give the Athletics a brief 1-0 lead. However, South Sask HC responded with authority, scoring twice in quick succession before the period ended. First, Rowen Istace netted the equalizer with assists from Rylan Crittenden and Bryce Scrupps, and just 51 seconds later, Quinn Partington scored what would stand as the game-winning goal, assisted again by the hot hand of Istace.
The third period saw South Sask HC tighten their grip on the game, capitalizing on their momentum and disciplined play. Rylan Crittenden extended the lead to 3-1 midway through the period, with Rowen Istace picking up his third point of the night with another assist. Istace then capped off a stellar individual performance by scoring his second goal of the game into an empty net in the final minute, sealing the 4-1 win with an assist from Keenan Williams. The game was a penalty-filled affair, with both teams taking multiple minor infractions for tripping, slashing, charging, and interference, but South Sask HC's penalty kill units stood strong when tested.
The story of the game was the dynamic offensive duo of Rowen Istace and Rylan Crittenden for South Sask HC, who combined for six points in the victory. Equally impressive was the goaltending of Barrett Scrupps, who turned aside all shots he faced to earn the win between the pipes. Despite a valiant effort from Lloydminster netminder Riggins Tymchysyn, who faced a barrage of 47 shots, the offensive pressure from South Sask HC proved too much to handle as they skated away with a well-deserved two points.
14U AAA - HC Edmonton
14U AAA - Surrey Eagles HA
15U AAA - Bow Valley HC
15U AAA - Langley HA
