The Regina Pats were faced with a tough test this weekend and they passed with flying colours following a 4-3 win over the Portland Winterhawks.
Regina’s winning streak improves to three games, with all of the wins coming against teams that are ahead of them in the Western Hockey League’s overall standings. (Calgary, Saskatoon and Portland)
Connor Bedard had a pair of goals in the win as he continued his sizzling streak over the last three games. Since returning from the World Juniors, the Pats captain has amassed nine goals and four assists. The 17-year old also extended his point streak to 30 games.
After the game, Bedard said the Pats have a lot of confidence right now, especially with wins against three good teams over the last week.
“It’s a huge boost for our group, it’s pretty exciting. ”
Braxton Whitehead scored for the second straight night to open the scoring for Regina. Alexander Suzdalev picked up his 23rd goal.
Drew Sim collected his second win of the weekend as he made 29 saves.
5,403 people were in attendance at the Brandt Centre on Saturday night, head coach and general manager John Paddock was happy to see a packed crowd for the second straight night this weekend.
“It certainly didn’t hurt to have that many people in the building and the energy that we can pick up from it.”
He added. “It’s really good to play in a game like this at home and have to find a way to win.”
Suzdalev described the atmosphere in the locker room on Saturday night as electric. He says the confidence within the entire team continues to grow.
“We want to play this hockey that we can play and we can beat strong teams, it’s great energy in the room now.”
The Pats were able to establish a little more of cushion for the seventh spot in the Eastern Conference this weekend as they sit three points ahead of Swift Current. They now trail both Calgary and Lethbridge by four points with both teams holding the fifth and sixth spot in the Eastern Conference.
It will be a big two game set next weekend as the Pats meet the Broncos. Friday’s night game will be in Swift Current with Queen City hosting the rematch on Saturday night at the Brandt Centre.
Coverage for Friday’s night on 620 CKRM begins with the pregame show 6:35, Dante De Caria will have the play-by-play beginning at 7:00.
