In a thrilling conclusion to their semi-final series, the Weyburn Red Wings have secured a place in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) Final for the first time in 13 years. The Red Wings triumphed over the Flin Flon Bombers with a dramatic 3-2 victory, thanks to Josh Sale's overtime goal just 5:08 into the extra period.
The game, held on April 14, 2025, was a nail-biter from start to finish. Ryder Mucha of the Bombers opened the scoring early in the first period, giving Flin Flon a brief lead. However, the Red Wings quickly responded. Max Chakrabarti and Lucas Schmid found the back of the net, allowing Weyburn to take a 2-1 lead into the second intermission.
As the clock wound down in the third period, it seemed the Red Wings were on the verge of closing out the series. But with just 10:33 remaining, Joey Lies leveled the score with a powerful one-time shot, forcing the game into overtime. Both teams fought fiercely during the extra frame, but it was Sale who emerged as the hero, netting the game-winner and sending the Red Wings fans into a frenzy.
In goal, Angelo Zol was stellar for the Red Wings, stopping 41 of the 43 shots he faced. His performance was pivotal in securing the win, especially in a high-stakes game like this one. On the other side, Bombers goaltender Matthew Kieper made 38 saves on 41 shots in what would be his final game in junior hockey.
The Red Wings' victory not only marks a significant achievement for the team but also sets the stage for an exciting final series. Weyburn will now face the Melfort Mustangs in the Best of 7 Canterra Seeds Cup Final, with Game 1 scheduled for Friday night, April 18, 2025, at the Northern Lights Palace, starting at 7:30 PM.
This upcoming final promises to be a thrilling matchup as both teams are eager to claim the championship title. The Red Wings, with their rich history in the league, will be looking to capitalize on their momentum from this semi-final victory, while the Mustangs will aim to assert their dominance and secure the championship.
Fans are already buzzing with excitement as they anticipate the final series. The Red Wings’ return to the SJHL Final after more than a decade is a testament to their hard work and determination throughout the season. They have faced numerous challenges, but their resilience has paid off, culminating in this remarkable achievement.
As the teams prepare for the finals, all eyes will be on Weyburn and Melfort, as each game is sure to bring its own drama and excitement. With the championship on the line, both teams will give it their all, making for an unforgettable series.
In conclusion, the Weyburn Red Wings have proven themselves as a formidable force in the SJHL, and their journey to the finals is a story of perseverance and passion. The excitement is palpable as fans gear up for what promises to be an exhilarating championship series.
