The Express were able to hold on to a 2-1 lead from the midpoint of the game on, to win the Mainland Division Semifinal round 4 games to 2 over the Prince George Spruce Kings.
Gordie Defiel had another outstanding game between the pipes and Ryan Rosenthal recorded a goal and an assist after an overnight trip back to Coquitlam from Prince George.
Fans could see that both teams came out a little tentative, whether it was due to nerves or bus legs.
Prince George was able to break through first, as the most dangerous Spruce King in the series, Justin Rai, opened the scoring. He picked up a loose puck at the Express blueline and carried it into the slot area. Rai looked off the Express defender before firing a wrist shot stick side past Defiel.
As they’ve done all series, the Express immediately upped the pressure to try and even the game. Corey Mackin dug loose a puck behind the Prince George net and skated toward the penalty box side before finding an open Ryan Rosenthal for a one-time goal.
The 1-1 tie carried all the way into the 2nd Period when the Express powerplay was able to break through after being held at bay all series long. Bo Pieper was in good position to take a errant shot off the back boards and tuck it past Alex Murray.
The 3rd period wasn’t short on excitement keeping all the fans on the edges of their seats! Both teams battled hard but the Express were able to hold onto the 2-1 lead winning the game and closing out the series at home. The energy in the Arena was outstanding as both the team and fans celebrated the win.
Be sure to be there when your Express take on the Langley Rivermen in Round 2 of the Fred Page Cup Playoffs fighting for the title of Division Playoff Champions. The Express’ first home game in the series is Monday, March 17th, puck drop at 7pm.
