Ooks Lose Game One

Friday night was the start of the semifinal series between the NAIT Ooks and the Briercrest Clippers. Due to the teams being over 400 km apart, NAIT will host all three games. The Clippers pulled off a close overtime win, beating the Ooks 2-1.

The underdogs, the Briercrest Clippers, got a power play early into the first. They had their chances but were kept off the scoreboard as the NAIT penalty kill held strong. The Clippers applied most of the pressure early but about halfway through, NAIT responded and ended up outshooting the Clippers 10-7 in the first. Both goalies stood tall in the first, with no goals being allowed.

0-0 after one.

The physical play came out in the second as both teams exchanged big hits. The game stayed tightly checked through the whole second, with not many scoring chances for either team. Finally, halfway through the second, Zachary Anderson for Briercrest put home the game's first goal breaking the tie. NAIT pushed back before the end of the second but had no luck as Briercrest took the lead into the third.

1-0 after two.

NAIT applied the pressure the whole third period, but Briercrest stood firm. A late penalty from Briercrest opened the door for NAIT, and they put away a powerplay goal from Brett Trentham with just over two minutes left in the game. This game was heading for overtime.

1-1 after three.

Just over halfway through the 10 minute overtime period Briercrest scored the game-winner to take the 2-1 lead. Jacob Arsenault was the golden goal scorer tonight.

2-1 Briercrest final.