It’s down to a best-of-three series between the Richmond Sockeyes and Grandview Steelers.
The teams split the opening four games in the Pacific Junior Hockey League quarter-final playoff match-up, including Grandview’s 8-5 come-from-behind home ice win on Sunday. The teams return to the Burnaby Winter Club on Wednesday night, then head to Minoru Arenas for game six on Thursday (7 p.m.). If necessary, game seven would go back in Burnaby on Sunday.
The Sockeyes looked poised to take control of the series when they jumped out to a 3-0 game four lead on first period goals by Brodie Crawford, Alex McLeod and Tyler Paterson. However, a four-minute spearing penalty to Michael Tilbury allowed the Steelers to strike twice on the power play.
Nico Bruno capped a three goal outburst, over a 2:09 span, and the teams were suddenly deadlocked after 20 minutes.
Special teams play continued to be a factor as Grandview took the lead for good when Ian Prevost converted a 2-on-1 opportunity while shorthanded. Jake Holland followed with a power play goal and Timothy Chow made it 6-3 34 seconds later.
Goaltender Kurt Russell faced just 25 shots but many were premium chances with the Sockeyes uncharacteristically giving up numerous odd man rushes.
“We gave up three 2-on-1s in the first half of the game and all were on our power play so that’s on us,” said Richmond head coach Judd Lambert.
“We have a young and inexperienced team. We have said all along, we have to work our hardest and play our best to win games. And it doesn’t matter who we play against. That’s what the fact of the matter is. We are not going to win too many games giving up eight (goals).”
The Sockeyes had jumped out to a 2-1 series lead with a 4-2 home ice win on Saturday, after Grandview had won 4-3 at Minoru two days later.
“I have no idea what to expect the rest of the series,” added Lambert. “I just want our guys to be ready. Play hard, give it everything they got and be mentally prepared every time they step onto the ice.
“We are in the exact same position as we were last Sunday and that’s starting from scratch (with the series tied).”
Paterson had a goal and two assists in Sunday’s game four loss. Evan Thomas and Jordan Andrews had the other goals. Matthew Cox led the way in game three with a goal and two helpers. Nicholas Wicks and Michael Tilbury also scored.
Richmond had opened the series with a 2-1 road win last Wednesday. Wicks power play goal with just 12 seconds left was the difference.
