The Westside Warriors got exactly the start they wanted to the 2011-12 season.
Visiting a Trail Smoke Eaters team they’ve knocked out of the playoffs in each of the previous three seasons, the Warriors exploded for 5 goals in the second period, eventually claiming a 7-3 victory.
Tyler Krause led the way offensively, notching a pair of powerplay goals and an even strength tally. In fact, the veteran forward may get credit for a fourth, pending video review of Westside’s fourth goal (which was awarded to rookie Seb Lloyd).
“I thought we played really well” says the Kelowna native of his team’s performance. “It was great to get the first win out of the way, especially on the road after the bus trip today” he said, adding “the boys played really well.”
The Warriors clicked on special teams, going 3/5 on the powerplay while holding the Smoke Eaters to 1 goal on 6 opportunities.
Steve Racine earned his first BCHL victory in goal, while the Warriors outshot their hosts 38-26. Smokies netminder Matt Larose was on the hook for all seven Westside goals.
Westside Coach Rylan Ferster was ejected from the game early in the third period for arguing with the referee, but is expected to be back behind the bench for Saturday’s rematch.
Friday’s opener was a fairly rough affair, and the teams renew hostilities on Saturday night at Trail’s Cominco Arena.
Visit The General’s Report for more thoughts on Friday’s game.
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