Vermilion Tigers’ Strong Lead In Playoff Finals

2023/24 Tiger’s team. Photo Arlene Nelson Photography

In a thrilling display of skill and determination, the Vermilion Tigers have taken a commanding lead in the playoffs finals against rivals, the Wainwright Bisons. With two consecutive victories, the Tigers have set the tone for the series, showcasing their prowess on the ice and leaving their opponents reeling.

The first game of the series took place Friday, March 15th, in Wainwright. Both teams battling fiercely for control of the ice. Despite a scoreless first period, the Tigers quickly gained momentum in the second period, with Deven Culford netting the opening goal, assisted by Will Porter and Conner Roscoe. The Bisons retaliated swiftly, with Ron Jay Peeawychew finding the back of the net, assisted by Lucas McClennon.

Entering the third period with a narrow lead, the Tigers refused to relent. Evan Cooke extended their advantage with a power-play goal, assisted by Rohan Quist and Ean Cooke. Deven Culford struck again just a minute later, supported by Conner Roscoe and Riley Applegate. With the game on the line, Dannon Pavka sealed the victory for the Tigers with an empty-net goal in the dying seconds, securing a 4-1 triumph.

Buoyed by their success in the opening game, the Tigers came out swinging in the second matchup Sunday, March 17th, in Wainwright. Braden Aker of the Wainwright Bisons drew first blood, but the Tigers quickly responded as Josh Beaudette equalized late in the first period, assisted by Will Porter and Ryan Nelson.

In the second period, Deven Culford once again proved to be a thorn in the Bisons’ side, scoring an unassisted goal just minutes into the period. However, the Bisons showed resilience, with Joshua Paulgaard capitalizing on a short-handed opportunity, assisted by Matt Smith and Dalton Irvine. Undeterred, the Tigers regained control of the game with Evan Cooke netting another power-play goal, assisted by Rohan Quist and Wyatt Dyck.

Heading into the final period with a narrow lead, the Tigers refused to take their foot off the gas. Conner Roscoe extended their advantage with another power-play goal, assisted by Ryder Kenyon and Riley Applegate, securing a 4-2 victory for the Tigers and a commanding 2-0 series lead.

As we continue into the next games the Vermilion Tigers find themselves in a prime position to clinch the championship title. With their offense firing on all cylinders and their defense standing strong, the Tigers will undoubtedly look to maintain their winning streak and close out the series in style.