(Ben Tompkins/northeastNOW)

By Ben Tompkins

Three more to go

Mustangs take 1-0 series lead after 5-1 victory over Bruins

Mar 23, 2024 | 12:25 AM

The Melfort Mustangs started their playoff run exactly how they wanted… with a win.

Melfort took game one of round one against the Estevan Bruins, by a score of 5-1.

Despite a slow start, as the Mustangs looked a little nervous, they eventually settled in and pulled away in the second half of the game.

“Always good to get game one at home, that’s awesome and kudos to the crowd they were nice and loud and that’s awesome, that gives the boys a boost. I thought our first wasn’t as good as what we wanted, probably the nerves were kicking in, even in the second as well, but in the third, we came out and finished hard, so good to get the win,” explained assistant coach, Tye Scherger.

This was the fifth time this season that the Mustangs have beaten the Estevan Bruins, as the teams have now met a total of seven times.

Community working together

Roots of Hope making a difference in suicide prevention

3h ago

ST. GEORGE'S

P.A. Ukrainian church welcomes new Bishop as repairs to the roof continue

5h ago

Battle ready

Predators set to defend title as new PGLL season approaches

20h ago

That leads to a lot of familiarity for both sides, which usually creates animosity, as the game created a playoff style of physicality.

“Well that’s playoff hockey, you love it when it’s that physical, and obviously that brings atmosphere and edge in the rink, and for everyone, their blood is boiling,” Scherger added.

Only one of the six goals on the evening was not scored at even strength, as Estevan went 0 for 2 on the man advantage, while Melfort capitalized on one of their four powerplay opportunities.

That happened to be on their final chance of the evening, as special teams were another thing they had to figure out along the way.

“I’d say a little bit of nerves as well, but I think some were also trying to do it on their own and that just can’t happen, you gotta come with a whole five unit and play together,” Scherger told northeastNOW.

Game 2 goes Saturday at the Northern Lights Palace, with puck drop slated for 7:30 p.m., as the matchup can once again be heard on CJVR.

–

Ben.Tompkins@pattisonmedia.com

On X @BenTompkins_8