The Nipawin Hawks welcomed the Melville Millionaires to the Cage on Tuesday night in a high-scoring, back-and-forth battle that ultimately saw Melville come out on top with a 6–5 shootout win.
Melville jumped out to an early lead in the first period with goals from Carmichael, Gourley, and Kokosha. The Hawks got on the board late in the frame when Assistant Captain #7 Eric Hoiness (12) buried one with help from #4 Braeden Jockims (7) to make it 3–1 after 20 minutes.
The second period saw the Hawks close the gap on the power play as #34 Konnor Watson (19) scored, assisted by #4 Braeden Jockims (8) and #20 Raydr Wallington (12). Melville answered back shortly after with a goal from Taylor, sending the game to the third with Melville holding a 4–2 lead.
In the third period, Melville extended their lead with a goal from Shindle, but the Hawks responded in a big way with three straight goals. #20 Raydr Wallington (3) got things started with assists from #10 Will Whitter (17) and #14 Mason Lowther (6). Then #14 Mason Lowther (5) scored with help from #10 Will Whitter (18) and #1 Gage Roberts (2). The Hawks tied the game on the power play when #34 Konnor Watson (20) netted his second of the night, assisted by Assistant Captain #7 Eric Hoiness (21) and #6 Brady Seabrook (8).
There was no scoring in overtime, sending the game to a shootout.
In the shootout, Melville’s Oatman was stopped by Gage Roberts, while Hoiness was turned aside for the Hawks. Margolis scored for Melville, while Binder was stopped. Whitter and Jockims were unable to answer, giving Melville the 6–5 shootout victory.
Shots on goal favored Nipawin 29–22.
The loss drops the Hawks to fourth overall in the league standings.
The Hawks hit the road Friday night to take on Warman at 7:00 PM, and return home to the Cage on Tuesday, January 27 when they welcome the Flin Flon Bombers for a 7:00 PM puck drop.
