By Matt Stefano
For the first time since sweeping them in last year’s NOJHL finals and capturing their second straight Copeland Cup McNamara Trophy, the Soo Thunderbirds took on the Kirkland Lake Gold Miners at the Essar Centre Friday night.
Rookie forward Nick Smith earned first star of the game with a goal (empty net) and an assist as the T-Birds defeated the Gold Miners 3-1.
“I thought it was a good team effort,” said Smith. “We outworked them, got pucks deep and success came from that.”
Kaidan McDonald and Zach Senecal had the other goals for the Soo while Jake Behse, Mike Winn, Keenan Eddy and Brandon Gordon all chipped in with an assist each.
“We knew it would be a tough game, but we came out on top last year and so far this season we are up in the series and it’s a good start,” concluded Smith.
William Mizuik had the lone goal for the Gold Miners while assists went to Kevin Ford and Alex Storjohann.
Victor-Olivier Courchesne gave up 2 goals on 27 shots for the Gold Miners loss while T-Birds second year goaltender made 15 saves for the win.
The T-Birds will play their final home game for the month of November on Sunday, November 27th against the Soo Eagles at 7:00 p.m. from the Essar Centre.
NOTE
Sunday’s game against the Eagles will also mark the final home game for Fan Appreciation Month sponsored by The Tech.
TICKET PRICES
Adults: $9.00
Seniors & Students: $5.00
Kids 5 years old and under get in for free
Sault Minor and Sault Peewee hockey players get in for free if they wear their team jerseys and all season ticket holders will receive a free program.
(Photo credit to James Egan’s Sports Photography)
