CUE Thunder vs RDP Kings in a Nail-Biting Season Opener

(EDMONTON, AB) The Thunder Men's Hockey team opened their season against the RDP Kings, the 2022-23 defending champions. It was a back-and-forth battle to the very end resulting in a shootout finish.

The game started with both teams displaying their offensive prowess in the first period. Griffen Ryden of Concordia University of Edmonton struck first at 10:39, assisted by Brandon Wallis and Gabe Odowichuk. Red Deer Polytechnic responded swiftly, with Jacob Wozney netting a shorthanded goal at 12:29, thanks to assists from Layne Toder and Brennan Davis.

The second period saw no additional goals, setting the stage for a tension-filled third period. Red Deer Polytechnic reclaimed the lead at 5:12, with Sean Michalevich finding the back of the net, assisted by Dawson Leroux and Jacob Wozney. Concordia University of Edmonton managed to level the score at 15:15 when Tyler Schendel scored a power-play goal, with an assist from Isaac Leik.

With the score locked at 2-2, the game moved into overtime. However, neither team could break the deadlock, pushing the contest into a suspenseful shootout. In the shootout, the Red Deer Kings proved victorious with a final score of 3-2, ultimately securing the hard-fought win. The One Team Sport Players of the game went to #10 Griffen Ryden of the Thunder, and #9 Jacob Wozney for the Kings. The Thunder will head down to Red Deer to take on the Kings tomorrow evening, and will return home on October 27^th to battle the NAIT Ooks.