By Craig Stein
COME FROM BEHIND WIN GETS HOME ICE ON SJHL’S SIDE
The Battlefords North Stars found themselves behind the eight ball early in Game 1 of the 2019 Anavet Cup on Friday, as the MJHL Champion Portage Terriers jumped out to a 2-0 first period lead in front of their home fans, thanks to a pair of goals from Jared Roy. Roy scored two goals in 15 playoff games and had nine during the regular season.
The SJHL champs chipped away at the deficit, as Dylan Esau scored the Stars’ first Anavet Cup goal just over a minute into the second period, setting the stage for a third period comeback.
MacGregor Sinclair tied things up at 6:29 of the final frame, and when overtime appeared to be looming, Ryan Gil potted the game winner with 51 seconds left in regulation, as the Stars picked up the 3-2 decision and a 1-0 series lead.
Joel Gryzbowski was once again one of the main reasons for a North Stars’ victory, as he made 29 saves on 31 Portage shots. The Terriers out-shot the Stars 31-18 on the night, as the Stars managed just four first period shots, and five more in the second before appearing to find their legs in the third.
They’ll stay the night in Portage la Prairie, with Game 2 set for Saturday. The North Stars look to put themselves in a good spot as they’ll host potentially three straight games next Tuesday-Thursday.
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