Austin Pratt started his captaincy of the Pats with a bang. Just 20 seconds in, he was able to bury the first goal of the season. Regina’s top line, featuring Pratt, Ty Kolle, and Dawson Holt, dominated the Moose Jaw Warriors in the first period.
Pratt said after the game, “We had a full month together as lines. You start clicking early and it showed.”
Kolle commented, “We were looking for a great starting weekend, and obviously the first one is super important, and we are looking to do the same tomorrow”
The line continued their solid play in the opening frame which led to Ty Kolle jumping on a loose puck, and he was able to get it past Moose Jaw starter Bailey Brkin.
Moose Jaw pushed back in the second period, with Keenan Taphorn converting on the power play. The Pats continued their strong play during 5-on-5 and out shot Moose Jaw despite the Warriors receiving three power plays which included some 5-on-3 time.
Pratt said, “We knew the push back was coming. Once we started staying out of the box, I thought we took it to them and just kept playing the way we did in the first.”
Despite the strong play 5-on-5, the penalties continued in the third. Moose Jaw was able to capitalize again. This time Carson Denomie converted to tie up the game.
When asked about all the penalties Pats Head Coach Dave Struch responded, “Play the way we played in the first period. Play hard and play the right way, have the puck (and) you won’t take as many penalties.”
The Pats top line responded in the third. Kolle was able to jump on a loose puck in the slot and score the eventual game winner.
Regina had to kill off another penalty to secure the victory.
Austin Pratt said, “Everyone knew the situation we were in and how bad we wanted to win this game, so I think it was full attention on everything on the PK.”
Pats Stats
Moose Jaw was 2-for-7 on the power play, Regina 0-for-1.
Bailey Brkin made 27 saves in his Warriors debut.
Max Paddock stopped 20-of-22 for the Pats
Dawson Holt had two assists in his first game as a Pat.
Jadon Joseph won a game high 20 faceoffs.
