*Photo Credit: Richard Peterson Photography
The Nipawin Hawks were on the road Sunday afternoon for a matinee matchup against the Yorkton Terriers.
The opening period was fast-paced, with the Hawks controlling play early and outshooting the Terriers 10–5. Despite the strong start, neither team was able to find the back of the net and the first frame ended scoreless.
Yorkton opened the scoring in the second period with goals from Bartha and Ries. The Hawks responded late in the frame when #16 ‘A’Mason Karakochuk (10) cut the deficit to one, assisted by #20 Raydr Wallington (16) and #7 ‘A’ Eric Hoiness (24).
Nipawin came out flying in the third period. #28 Sean Shiels (6) tied the game early, with assists going to #16 ‘A’Mason Karakochuk (19) and #7 ‘A’Eric Hoiness (25). Yorkton answered back shortly after with a goal from Courchesne. The Hawks responded again when #16 ‘A’ Mason Karakochuk (11) scored his second of the game, assisted by #28 Sean Shiels (6) and #7 ‘A’Eric Hoiness (26). All three goals in the third period came within the opening 6:30.
Unfortunately for the Hawks, the Terriers regained the lead midway through the third period with the eventual game-winner from Leonard. Nipawin pushed late, but was unable to force the equalizer.
Shots on goal favoured the Hawks 26–24.
With the win, the Yorkton Terriers move into fourth place overall in the league, while the Hawks slip to fifth.
The Hawks now return home and will need the support of their fan base as they host another important matchup on Tuesday, February 4, with a 7:00 PM puck drop against the Estevan Bruins at the Cage.
