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Powell River Regals stay undefeated in McCallum Cup series

Overtime needed to determine winner in Lake Cowichan
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Brock Sawyer helped set up the overtime winner for Powell River Regals in Lake Cowichan on February 15.

Powell River Regals’ unbeaten run in McCallum Cup playoffs continued on February 15 in Lake Cowichan.

The senior AA hockey team was without a full lineup but played a composed and strategic game, according to coach Tod English.

“We didn’t allow the Appollos to intimidate us,” said English, whose team took a stranglehold on the three-team series for the west coast championship, which includes Nanaimo Steelemen. A 5-4 overtime win improved the Regals’ record to three wins and zero losses.

“Going down a goal after three minutes didn't deter us,” said English. “Over the rest of the period, [goaltender] Laszlo Tamasik stopped the remaining 14 shots.”

Bekkam Willis equalized just over a minute into period two with a wrist shot over the blocker of the Appollos’ goaltender. Bryson Cecconi and Chad Niddery then set up Brock Sawyer for a one-timer from the slot 44 seconds later for 2-1 Regals’ lead.

Appollos tied the score midway through the period, but the Regals restored the lead with a power play goal by Cecconi, set up by Niddery.

“Going into the third period, it was sheer will and heart,” said English. “Niddery scored from Brandsma to put us ahead 4-2 with 11 minutes to go, but the Appollos stormed back with two goals 19 seconds apart to tie the game and force overtime.”

In the extra period, Sawyer intercepted a soft clearance at the blue line, beat a defender wide and sent the puck to Brett Kinley, who set up Cecconi’s game winner.

“It may be one of the guttiest displays of heart and soul I have seen in a long time,” said English. “Appollos had a full lineup. For our players to overcome more than 60 minutes of playoff action and win was remarkable.”

Regals face Nanaimo in their final McCallum Cup game.

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