The Yellowhead Chiefs earned their first win of the 2024-25 season in a thrilling 4-2 victory over the Pembina Valley Hawks on Friday, October 11, at the Shoal Lake Communiplex. This marks a historic moment for head coach Hannah Street, as she secured her first U18 victory, leading her young squad to a well-fought victory.
The game started with Pembina Valley’s McIntosh opening the scoring at 6:04 of the first period, but Yellowhead quickly answered. Ethan Bray, assisted by Redden Richmond and Isaac McArthur, notched his first goal of the season at 13:44 to even things up.
The second period was where Yellowhead took control. Riley Swereda continued his strong offensive start to the season, scoring his third goal at 3:17 with a slick pass from Winston Lepp. Just minutes later, Oliver Nickel took advantage of a penalty kill situation, scoring short-handed at 7:16, assisted by Isaac McArthur, extending the Chiefs’ lead to 3-1.
Though Pembina Valley clawed one back early in the third period, making it 3-2 with a goal by Rondeau, the Chiefs held firm. Nickel netted his second of the game at 14:03 on the power play, with assists from Grady McNish and Nolan Kozak. The goal sealed the 4-2 victory for the Chiefs.
Goaltender Conner Rapley was the backbone of the team’s defense, standing tall with 46 saves on 48 shots. His remarkable performance kept Pembina Valley from capitalizing on several power play opportunities, as the Chiefs successfully killed off all nine penalties.
With the Chiefs’ offense still missing key players Alec Strachan and Colby Asselstine due to injury, the team showed resilience despite the short bench. Both are expected to return soon, providing additional depth for the Chiefs.
With the taste of victory now in their grasp, the Chiefs are looking to build momentum as they prepare for two home games next week. They will host the Norman Northstars on Friday, October 18, followed by a rematch against the Pembina Valley Hawks on Saturday.