Pats Even First Round Series With Hurricanes

Adam Brooks scored twice as the Regina Pats came back a game one defeat to beat the Lethbridge Hurricanes 3-0 Saturday night at the ENMAX Centre.

The victory evened the first round WHL playoff series at one game a piece as the series now switches to the Saskatchewan capital for games three and four next Tuesday and Wednesday, March 29th and 30th.

This was certainly unlike the five previous games these teams have played against each other this year. This was a much tighter and defensive-minded game from start to finish. The goaltending was quite good on both sides I thought as well, unfortunately for the Hurricanes, Pats goalie Tyler Brown was perfect stopping all 27 Lethbridge shots he faced in this game.

After a scoreless first period, Regina opened the scoring in the second with what would eventually turn out to be the game winner. Adam Brooks beat Stuart Skinner 4:13 into the period to make it 1-0 Regina. It was Brooks' first of two goals in the game. It was only a one goal game through 40 minutes of play.

In the third, Regina added some insurance and put this game to bed. Brooks scored his second of the game to make it 2-0 Pats and then the visitors iced it with an empty-netter from Sam Steel with about 1:30 left to play. The Pats would skate away with a well-played 3-0 victory. For the Canes to get shut out in a game this season has been rare to say the least, but give Regina credit. After playing poorly in game one and being very undisciplined, they came out Saturday and looked like a very different team.

The Pats out shot the Canes 28-27. Regina went 0/1 on the power play and the Hurricanes finished the night 0/3.

Game five will be back in Lethbridge next Friday (Apr. 1). It's only been two games, but this is turning into a pretty interesting series. Regina now holds home ice advantage in what is essentially now a best of five set.

Thanks,
Pat