The Prince George Cougars’ best season ever came to an end Monday as the Portland Winterhawks gave them an early exit from the WHL playoffs.
The Winterhawks doubled up the Cougars 4-2 in Portland to take the best-of-seven series by a similar 4-2 mark.
After a first period where neither team could get the puck past the opposing goalies, the Winterhawks blew it open in the second with three straight goals. Colton Veloso, Ryan Hughes, and Alex Overhardt each got the rubber past Ty Edmonds in the Prince George net.
Kody McDonald got one back for the Cougars early in the third. However their comeback effort fell short as Keegan Iverson scored just over a minute after McDonald’s marker to give the Winterhawks a three-goal lead.
Colby McAuly scored with just under two minutes left in the game to get the Cougars within in two, but that would be all they could muster as the Winterhawks now move on to meet the Kelowna Rockets.
Edmonds made 38 saves in the Cougars’ net while Cole Kehler stopped 37 Cougars shots.
The Cougars are being praised on social media for an outstanding season:
Thanks to the @PGCougars players, staff and ownership group for an incredible year! You gave us so much to cheer about! #cityofpg is proud! https://t.co/admJ8AnyIP
— Shirley Bond (@shirleybond) April 4, 2017
The @PGCougars had a record year and should be very proud of themselves. BC Division Champs is something many players were unable to do.
— Nick Drazenovic (@Drazzy1010) April 4, 2017
To each and every single Cougars fan and supporter, thank you so much for being #United with us this season. You truly are extraordinary! pic.twitter.com/NCxxjMWMMi
— PG Cougars (@PGCougars) April 4, 2017
Congrats to the @PGCougars on a great season. Not the result you wanted but a huge step forward! Be proud boys!
— Eric Hunter (@Eric_Hunter15) April 4, 2017