The Yellowhead Chiefs battled hard but came up short against the Winnipeg Bruins in a 4-2 loss on Thursday night at the Shoal Lake Communiplex. Despite a strong effort, the Chiefs couldn’t hold off the Bruins’ late surge, as two goals in the final minute of regulation sealed the game for the visitors.
After a quiet first period, the Chiefs came to life in the second. Destin Knight got Yellowhead on the board at 10:18, finishing off a play from Colby Asselstine and Cooper McColl. Less than a minute later, Alec Strachan put the Chiefs ahead with his team-leading 18th goal of the season, assisted by Brody Bohemier and Konner Klemick. However, the Bruins responded late in the frame, tying the game at 2-2 heading into the third.
Goaltender Conner Rapley was outstanding, turning away 60 of 64 shots as the Bruins peppered the Chiefs’ net. The game remained tied until the dying moments when Winnipeg’s Chornley scored with just 19 seconds remaining, followed by an empty-netter from Rollason to close out the game.
Two nights later, the Chiefs engaged in a high-scoring battle against the Interlake Lightning but fell just short in a 7-6 thriller. Yellowhead kept pace with Interlake in shots, finishing even at 44, but special teams proved crucial as the Lightning capitalized on four power-play goals.
Nolan Kozak and Colby Asselstine found the net in the first period, while Alec Strachan, Ethan Bray, Grady McNish, and Cooper McColl added goals for the Chiefs throughout the game. Despite a strong offensive push, including a power-play goal from Strachan, Interlake’s Farthing notched a hat trick, and a late tally from Russell secured the win for the Lightning.
With the season nearing its end, the Chiefs now prepare for their final four games, all at home. They host the Southwest Cougars on February 18, followed by the Central Plains Capitals on February 21. The season wraps up with a two-game set against the Interlake Lightning on February 22 and 23. Fans are encouraged to come out and support the team as they finish the season strong on home ice!
