The 17U AAA matchup between HC Edmonton and Okanagan HC was a tale of special teams and steady goaltending, with Edmonton emerging with a 3-1 victory on home ice. The game started with a quick response from Okanagan, as Jaxon Everett found the back of the net just under seven minutes into the first period, assisted by Oliver Wilson. However, Edmonton’s power play unit quickly answered the call. After an Okanagan penalty, Gurshan Singh capitalized on the man-advantage, tying the game with assists from Boston Matter and Hudson Deren. The first period wasn't over, as Hudson Deren turned from playmaker to goalscorer, netting the eventual game-winner with just over a minute left, helped by Logan Rowbotham and Boston Matter, who picked up his second helper of the period.
The second period saw Edmonton tighten their grip on the game, largely on the back of another successful power play. Ryo Chong gave his team a crucial two-goal cushion, converting a pass from Logan Rowbotham midway through the frame. While Okanagan managed to keep the shot count even across the final two periods, they simply could not solve Edmonton netminder Linden Zaichkowsky. Zaichkowsky was a wall in the crease, turning aside all 21 shots he faced after the first-period goal to secure a stellar victory.
The final frame was a disciplined, defensive effort from HC Edmonton. Despite taking a couple of late penalties, including a second minor to Greyson Howse, they effectively shut down Okanagan’s attack, limiting them to just seven third-period shots. Okanagan goalie Wade Burton battled hard, making 27 saves on 30 shots, but his team's offense couldn't muster the comeback. In the end, Edmonton’s efficient power play and Zaichkowsky’s flawless goaltending after the opening goal were the decisive factors in a hard-earned two points.
14U AAA - HC Edmonton
14U AAA - Surrey Eagles HA
15U AAA - Bow Valley HC
15U AAA - Langley HA
