Photo: Ryan Sawatzky, Scott Stroh
Ander-sensational, Blizz take game 1 | Lead Series 1-0
On the back, the shoulders, the pads and the skates of Tomas Anderson, the Blizzard went on the road and captured a massive victory 2-1 to take game 1. Riley See scored after the game was tied and looking like it was heading to overtime. Instead, the Blizzard walked away with the W. While Anderson will get much of the attention, the team defensively did the job in front of him. They cleared lanes, cleared rebounds, never panicked and had great support all over the ice. Steinbach, coming off 8 days between games, got better as the game went on and had a number of glorious chances but could only find one that would beat the hottest goalie in the league. The Blizzard are guaranteed a split heading back to The Pas but will be looking for more while the Pistons will look to come out the gate strong and get control of their home ice and even things out before venturing out of town. Game 2 is tonight at 7:00 in La Broquerie.
Reid, Oil Caps Make Massive Statement | Lead Series 1-0
It may have taken a bit of time but once the Oil Caps got rolling, they managed to take the game over and come away with a huge road win, thanks in large part to a 22 save shutout by Eric Reid. 4 different Oil Caps found the back of the net and the road team, despite the hostile environment, proved they will not be pushed around. Winkler had their chances but after posting 11 shots in the first, combined for 11 more in the next two periods, one of their lowest shot totals in quite some time. As expected, things got chippy late and the penalty minutes piled up. Virden will head home with a chance to grab an even greater advantage while the Flyers will look to learn from mistakes and find a way to even things out. Game 2 is Sunday in Virden.
