SEASON OPENER RECAP
The Innisfail Eagles opened their 80th season on the road Friday night with a final score of 4 - 1.
Innisfail opened the scoring in the first period when Jordan Xavier found the net shorthanded, with Brandon Aab picking up the assist. The goal gave the Eagles a 1-0 advantage that they carried through the remainder of the first and all of the second period.
The game turned in the final 20 minutes. Lacombe tied the game on a Bryce Wilson power-play goal early in the third before adding two more goals. Troy Maclise gave the Generals their first lead, followed by Maddex Bignell to make it 3–1. Wilson added his second of the night into an empty net with 1:31 remaining to complete the 4-1 final.
The match was physical in the third period, with several penalties to both sides as the long-standing rivalry between the Eagles and Generals picked up where it left off.
Despite the final score, the teams were nearly even offensively. Lacombe held just a 35–34 advantage in shots, and the Eagles made 17 shots in their third period push.
Head Coach and General Manager Ryan Dodd was very proud of how the team responded throughout the night. Said Ryan:
To be up 1–0 going into the third period after killing off multiple penalties, the team really pulled together. Ultimately, we just couldn’t sustain it through the seven-minute power play awarded midway through the third period. Doel battled hard and I’m very proud of the effort he put in. Then, to get run over and step right back into the net even after the injury says a lot about him.We have a great thing building, and this team will be a force this season."
Congratulations go out to the Eagles Player of the Game Aiden Doel!
Next Up: Home Opener
The Eagles return to action on Saturday, October 17 when they welcome the Camrose Bruins to the Innisfail Twin Arena for their 2026 - 27 home opener with an 8pm puck drop - with a big thank you to Dick's Trucking our Home Town Sponsor for the game.
TICKET PRICES: Adults $10 | Youth $5 | U12 FREE