After a rough start to the first round of the NEAJBHL playoffs, the St. Paul Jr. B Canadiens took a win in Cold Lake on holiday Monday night, beating the Ice by a score of 4-2.
The game came after two loses at the Clancy Richard Arena, Feb. 16 and Feb. 17. The Canadiens played through a frustrating game on Feb. 16, ultimately losing by a score of 4-1.
"Definitely, the first game was frustrating," said head coach Joe Young.
Then, St. Paul battled into overtime on Sunday night, losing 2-1.
Young said Sunday's game was one that either team could have won, and both teams are evenly matched when it comes to work ethic.
Heading to Cold Lake on Monday, for a third game in as many days, St. Paul opened the scoring in the first period with a goal by Alex Astasiewicz.
Young admitted that travelling to Cold Lake, and being down 2-0 in the series, wasn't an easy task. Despite getting off to a good start, St. Paul fell behind, and would go into the second period down 2-1.
But, the Canadiens found the net again, first with a goal by Braydon Burak, then with a power play goal from Brody Green.
"We're going to battle right to the end . . . we're not going to quit," said Young, speaking mid-week.
A fourth goal, scored by Sheldon Scrannage in the third period, would secure the win for the Canadiens.
After Monday's game, the teams had a few days off, and used the time to rest and recover. The Canadiens will play in Cold Lake on Thursday night (Feb. 21), and will return to St. Paul for a Feb. 23 match-up against the Ice in Game 5. Saturday's game is set for 8 p.m. at the Clancy Richard Arena.
Young is hoping to see a large crowd come out to Saturday's game.
"It's the best hockey you're going to see in town . . . we need the support from our fans and our community," said Young, adding, he's always believed St. Paul is the best place to play hockey in the league.
If Game 6 is required, it will take place in Cold Lake on Sunday at 5 p.m.; with Game 7 set for St. Paul on Feb. 27, if required.
