CALGARY - Team Alberta jumped out to an early lead, and then held on for a 2-1 victory over Team British Columbia as round-robin action wrapped up Friday night at the 2019 WHL Cup.
Alberta scored the lone goal in the first period, and then extended the lead to 2-0 early in the second period. British Columbia closed the gap to 2-1 with just under three minutes remaining in the second, but that was as close as they would get. The third period was scoreless.
Connor Gourley led the way for Alberta with a goal and an assist. Josh Davies scored what proved to be the game-winner for Alberta at 4:02 of the second. Other assists went to Keaton Dowhaniuk and Oasiz Wiesblatt. Alberta outshot British Columbia, 35-31.
Justen Maric earned the win in net for Alberta. He stood tall midway through the second period making what turned out to be a game-saving stop on a penalty shot by British Columbia’s Rilen Kovacevic.
Boxscore > | Game One Recap > | Game Two Recap > | Team Alberta Roster >
With the victory, Alberta finishes the round-robin portion of the tournament with a perfect 3-0 record. Alberta now meets Team Saskatchewan in the second semi-final (Saturday, 4:30 pm). Saskatchewan was edged, 4-3, by Team Manitoba earlier on Friday. British Columbia and Manitoba meet in the other semi-final at 1 pm.
All games are at WinSport’s Markin-MacPhail Arena.
For more stats, schedule and ticket information for the WHL Cup, click here.