This is the third meeting between these teams in the last 11 days. The Saints have won the previous two meetings in close games.  In the last meeting, all 3 of SZ703’s goals came on the powerplay.

The Saints control most of the play in the first period, but give up a late short handed goal to SZ703. Shots ended up 7 a piece and SZ703 holds a 1-0 lead after one period of play.

The Saints score 7 seconds into the second to tie the game at 1. The Saints continue to control the play and score again to go up 2-1. The Saints score again to go up 3-1. The Saints draw another power play opportunity with 5:45 left in the second period. The Saints fail to take advantage, but out shoot SZ703 13-4 in the second and continue to hold a 3-1 lead going into the third period.

The Saints kill off a couple of penalties midway through the third, but give up a late goal to make it 3-2. A very late five minute penalty gives SZ703 a chance to tie the game. The Saints score a short handed empty net goal to win 4-2. SZ out shot the Saints 7-5 in the third, but the Saints held a 25-18 shot lead overall.

Next up is a rematch with Sturgeon in the Final.

PHOTO GALLERY

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Game photos by Bill Clark