The Stampeders scored two late in the final frame to force overtime, winning 5-4 in an overtime thriller on the eve of Halloween at the Corral.
Swan Valley’s offence was led by Trey Sauder (1G, 3A), Warren Marcotte (2G), Justin Keck (1G, 1A) and Steven Arp (1G), while Kobe Grant stopped 28/32 shots he faced in the win.
Selkirk got things rolling Friday night at the Centennial Arena as Owen Johnston picked up a power play marker at 12:49 of the opening frame. Sauder, who has been snake-bitten as of late, went to the dirty area and was able to get his stick on a loose puck, tying the game less than 45 seconds later.
Lucas Brennan collected his fifth of the season, giving the Steelers a 2-1 lead 7:17 into the second period. Marcotte was able to tie the game less than seven minutes later, scoring on the power play for his second of the year. But Ethan Brown silenced the crowd, giving Selkirk a late second period lead.
Brandon Ambrozik added to the Steelers lead, scoring his second of the year just past the midway point of the third period that should have deflated the Stampeders, right? WRONG. Swan Valley found a way to get the next one as Keck was sprung down the wing, tucking one through Joshua Kirton at 16:37 of the third period. With the goalie on the bench, Swan sent the extra attacker out to tie things up. Myles Mason lost his helmet and had to make his way off the ice, making way for Arp who went straight to the net, swatting home his third of the year with just 39 seconds left in the game. Arp’s late goal brought the crowd into an absolute frenzy and forced overtime.
Marcotte completed the come-back and became the hero Friday night. He was able to send a shot on goal, found his own rebound and ended the game, 1:57 into the extra frame.
Final shots
Selkirk – 32
Swan Valley – 33
The Stampeders picked up a huge two points Friday night at the Centennial Arena, improving their record to 7-7-1-1 and jumping into fourth place, (two points behind Virden) in the MGEU West Division.
Swan Valley will have a chance to climb in the standings Saturday, Oct. 29 when they host the Winnipeg Freeze. Saturday night’s game is Halloween at the Corral. Anyone wearing a costume will be entered into win a prize pack worth $150. Any child who dresses up can take part in the Parade of Costumes in the first intermission for extra prizes and candy courtesy of JTM Cattle and CM Custom Moving Services.
Tickets are available online at stampedershockey.com or at the door.
We hope to see all you ghosts and goblins tomorrow night at the Centennial Arena. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m..