BY COLE WALDIE
Prince George Cougars
In a thrilling contest at the CN Centre, the Prince George Cougars showcased resilience and character as they staged a late comeback to secure a 3-2 victory over the Portland Winterhawks on Friday at the CN Centre.
Riley Heidt emerged as the hero of the night, scoring two crucial goals in the third period, including the game-winner in the final 45 seconds. Heidt’s remarkable performance propelled the Cougars to overcome a deficit and secure a well-deserved win. Goaltender Joshua Ravensbergen played a pivotal role, stopping 25 of 27 shots from the Portland side.
The game began with a fast-paced opening period, marked by great chances on both sides. Despite four power-play opportunities, the Cougars were unable to break the deadlock, thanks in part to stellar goaltending by Nick Avakyan. Ravensbergen also showcased his skills in the opening frame with 12 saves.
The second period saw the Cougars take the lead, courtesy of blue-liner Bauer Dumanski. Blocking a shot at one end and displaying incredible determination, Dumanski found the puck while on his knees and sneaked it past Avakyan at 13:32, giving the Cougars a 1-0 lead. Despite being outshot 10-5 in the second period, the Cats maintained their lead through 40 minutes.
Entering the final period, the Cougars faced penalty trouble, and the Winterhawks capitalized. Gabe Klassen equalized at 2:38, followed by another power-play goal at 9:36 to take the lead. However, the Cougars responded on their seventh power-play opportunity, with Heidt tying the game at 12:37, deflecting the puck off Tyson Jugnauth’s skate. Heidt then sealed the victory at 19:15 with a well-placed shot from the high slot.