The U11 Canora Cobras defeated the Yorkton FFUN Motorsports Terriers in a tight series that kept fans on the edges of their seats right until the end.
Game one in Yorkton on March 9 was a true offensive shootout. After a six-goal first period, the game was tied going into the first intermission. Yorkton took a slim 5-4 lead at the end of the second, but the Cobras saved their best for last, and won the game 8 to 7 on a short-handed third period goal by Zarin Godhe.
Godhe led the way offensively for Canora with three goals and one assist. Yuri Olynyk rippled the twine on a pair of occasions, with single goals coming from the sticks of Priah Wolkowski, Angel Sliva and Ashten Strelioff. Also providing assists were Kasen Heshka and Caden Doogan.
Special teams played a significant role in the game’s outcome. The Cobras scored three power play goals in four opportunities, and shut out Yorkton on their two power play chances.
“I was impressed with the effort given by our players and how they are starting to play together as a unit,” said head coach Jeff Sznerch.
Game two took place in Canora on March 11, and it was a memorable one. The Cobras took a 3-1 lead in the second period, but Yorkton refused to give up, and won the game 5-4.
“This triggered overtime as the series was a 2 game total goal structure,” explained Sznerch. “Canora scored early into sudden death overtime to take the series 13-12. Fan engagement was high as many family and friends were in attendance and could be heard cheering loudly. Our team played quite well.”
Godhe continued his strong play with another hat trick. Single goals came from Kenzee Kopelchuk and Yuri Olynyk, who added an assist. Also contributing assists were Reid Kitchen (two) and Priah Wolkowski. Mason Reine was the winning goaltender in both games.
“We are quite proud of the team and look forward to our next playoff series. Our opponent is yet to be determined but it will be one of two Moosomin teams as they faced off against each other in the other side of our playoff bracket,” concluded Sznerch.
