Eagles Take Down Warriors 8-1 for Second Straight Home Win
The Innisfail Eagles continued their strong start at home Saturday night with an 8-1 victory over the Westlock Warriors at the Innisfail Twin Arena. After building a 3-1 lead through two periods, the Eagles broke the game open with five unanswered goals in the third to secure their second straight home win.
HONOURING OUR VETERANS
Before puck drop, the Eagles took time to honour those who have served our country. Veteran Bryan Clouston was joined by local cadets and a piper for a special pregame tribute, ceremonial puck drop as well as a moment of silence. Poppies were also available in the arena lobby as October 24th marks the official launch of the Royal Canadian Legion's poppy campaign.
With the pregame tribute complete, the Eagles turned their attention to Westlock, looking to build on their impressive home-opening victory against Camrose. It was a closer contest through the first two periods before Innisfail pulled away in the third.
FIRST PERIOD: Josh Gette opened the scoring with just over six minutes remaining in the first, assisted by Jeremy Klessens and Holden Knights. The Eagles carried a 1-0 lead into the first intermission, outshooting Westlock 21-7.
SECOND PERIOD: Klessens extended the lead early in the second, with assists from Cole Fox and Joel Ray. Westlock responded with a power-play goal from Blair Boulerice, but Nick Bell restored the two-goal advantage with just 36 seconds remaining in the period. The Eagles headed into the third leading 3-1.
We knew Westlock is a hard working club and to win the game we hadto win the battles. Game plan was to have steady pressure and take away their time and space. Eventually we wore them down and took over the game in the third period. We knew it wasn't going to be a sprint so we prepared for a marathon and we were rewarded. -Ryan Dodd, Head Coach
THIRD PERIOD: The Eagles took control in the final period, scoring five unanswered goals. Klessens opened the scoring before Jordan Xavier added another. Klessens then completed his hat trick, followed by goals from Tyler Berkholtz and Chance Longjohn to seal the 8-1 victory.
Innisfail finished the night with a 54-31 advantage in shots, while goaltender Aiden Doel stopped 30 of 31 shots to earn the win.
PLAYER HIGHLIGHTS
Jeremy Klessens led the Eagles with a hat trick and an assist, earning First Star honours and named our Building Trades of Alberta Player of the Game. Joel Ray recorded two assists and was named Second Star, while Josh Gette contributed a goal and an assist to earn Third Star.
Tyler Berkholtz and Chance Longjohn each finished with three points, while Aiden Doel delivered another strong performance in goal.
NEXT UP
- The Eagles hit the road on Saturday, November 7th to face the Tofield Satellites at 8:00 p.m.
- They return to the Innisfail Twin Arena on Saturday, November 14th when they host the Millet Barons. Puck drop is at 8:00 p.m.
About the Innisfail Eagles
The Innisfail Eagles are a senior hockey club based in Innisfail, Alberta, competing in the North Central Hockey League. Established in 1947, the Eagles are celebrating their 80th season.
For Media & Interview Requests:
Ryan Dodd, General Manager & Coach: rdodd@souffletmalt.com