Sometimes a draw can feel like a disappointing outcome.
However, facing the top team in the Mainland Division on the large ice surface of the South Surrey Arena, the Warriors are feeling good after a 3-3 tie against the Eagles on Friday.
Despite a strong first period, the Warriors found themselves down 1-0 after 20 minutes and down 2-0 after 40. The Eagles also extended their lead to 3-1 midway through the third.
However, the Warriors were able to battle back and even kill off an overtime penalty before settling for a single point.
Reid Simmonds scored West Kelowna’s equalizer with five minutes remaining in the third. Matt Anholt set up Simmonds’ marker, and also notched his own goal earlier in the frame. A powerplay goal from Marcus Basara rounded out the scoring for the visitors.
Brady Shaw posted a pair of goals to lead the Eagles’ offence, after Brett Mulcahy had opened the scoring late in the first.
“I think it’s almost a good tie, with how we battled back” Matt Anholt suggested after the dust had settled.
Anholt also says the result will allow West Kelowna to maintain the momentum that’s been building so far in the calendar year. The Warriors had posted three straight victories coming into Friday’s action, and have now earned 10 points in the past six games.
Tyler Briggs made 32 stops on the night, including a slew of tough saves on four second period Eagles powerplays.
“He’s an unbelievable goalie” Anholt says, adding “when he steps up it sure helps us.”
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Eagles netminder Michael Santaguida also sparkled, making 37 saves, including 12 in the first period when the Warriors were surging.
The Warriors now have a win and a tie against the Eagles this year, with the final matchup of the season set for Saturday evening at Royal LePage Place.
Visit The General’s Report for in-depth coverage of the West Kelowna Warriors.
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