SASKATOON, Sask. — The Saskatchewan Huskies showed plenty of resilience Friday night (Oct. 23) at Merlis Belsher Place, battling back from a one-goal deficit to earn a point before ultimately falling 2-1 in overtime to the Regina Cougars.
In a game where chances were at a premium, the Huskies steadily grew into the contest and appeared poised to complete the comeback after a strong third period. Instead, Regina found the winner just 34 seconds into overtime, spoiling Saskatchewan's late rally.
The opening period featured few quality opportunities as both teams settled into a tight defensive battle. Saskatchewan generated five shots while limiting Regina to four, with goaltender
Clara Juca turning aside everything she faced to keep the game scoreless through 20 minutes.
The visitors broke through early in the second period after the Huskies were assessed a cross-checking penalty. On the ensuing power play, Amy Dvernichuk found the back of the net at the 3:48 mark to put Regina ahead 1-0. Despite the setback, Saskatchewan remained within striking distance thanks to several timely saves from Juca and continued strong play in its own zone.
Trailing entering the third, the Huskies delivered their best stretch of hockey. Saskatchewan held an 8-5 edge in shots during the period and was rewarded with 7:10 remaining in regulation when rookie forward
Kaysah Nurani scored her first goal of the season. The marker came off a well-worked play from
Jaiyana Nurani and
Peppi Virtanen, tying the game at 1-1 and energizing the home crowd.
The Huskies carried that momentum into the closing minutes and forced overtime after a determined comeback effort. However, Regina needed only one opportunity in the extra frame. Just 34 seconds after the opening faceoff, Dvernichuk scored her second goal of the night off a pass from Ivy Perkin to secure the 2-1 victory for the Cougars.
The Huskies and Cougars will face off once again tomorrow night (Oct. 24) in Regina at the Co-operators Centre.
