The Medicine Hat Dynamic Industrial Cubs held off a late-game push from the Okotoks Carstar Bisons on Friday night, earning a hard-fought 3-2 victory in front of the home crowd at the Kinplex.
The Cubs wasted little time getting on the scoreboard, with Nolen Sutherland and Jesse Klimosko finding the back of the net to give the Cubs an early 2-0 advantage. Brennan Finke extended the lead to 3-0 midway through the first period, converting on a penalty shot at 11:49 after an Okotoks tripping infraction.
However, Okotoks wasn’t ready to go away quietly. The Bisons responded with a pair of goals in the second period, as Connor Chapman and Nathan Flanagan both found the back of the net. Seamus Garagan picked up an assist on each goal, helping Okotoks claw its way back into the contest and cut the Cubs’ lead to just one heading into the final period.
With the game hanging in the balance, Medicine Hat needed a strong finish to protect its advantage. The Cubs delivered a determined defensive effort in the third, limiting the Bisons’ scoring opportunities and keeping them off the scoreboard despite several power-play chances.
Goaltender Kayden Van Ham was a key part of the effort, turning aside 27 of 29 shots to help secure the victory. His performance, combined with a timely defensive stand in the final period, ensured the Cubs would hold on for the one-goal win.
The victory improved the Cubs’ record to 8-2-0 on the season, moving them into sole possession of first place in the Gary Wournell South Division with 16 points.
Photo courtesy of RJF Productions
