The Portage Terriers picked up their fifth win in a row on Wednesday night, beating the Dauphin Kings 5-2.
Special teams were a big part of the game as Portage was 4/5 with the man advantage and 7/8 on the penalty kill, which included killing off a full two minute five on three disadvantage.
“You know, we have got to be more disciplined, we know that,” says Terrier forward Scott Cousins. “At times you can’t really do too much about it, but that’s myself included, because I took an unsportsmanlike today, but it’s good to have a PK that can go out and do that and kind of win us a game there.”
The Terriers started out of the gate strong with Cousins scoring in the first three minutes. Nolan Nenow then scored his first on the power play midway through the period to make it 2-0. Portage was efficient with their chances as they were outshot 13-6 in the first.
Portage started strong again in the second period. With Ethan Stewart in the box for interference, Tristan Gravenor banged in a rebound at the side of the net to make it 3-0 Portage. It was his second power play goal in as many nights.
“Yeah, I’m happy about it, but I’m not too focused about it,” says Gravenor. “I’m just trying to play my game and just continue doing what I’m doing. ”
The goal seemed to wake up the Kings as Matthew Thomas tipped a shot past Terrier goalie Mitchell Kathler for their first of the night. Portage restored their three goal lead later in the period when Nolan Nenow put away his second power play goal.
In the third period Dauphin ramped up their pressure and eventually Thomas was able to score his second of the night, this time on the power play.
The Terriers were able to hang on the rest of the way and Cousins scored his second of the night into the empty cage from distance to seal the win.
The Terriers are now tied with the Winkler Flyers for second in the league. Next on the calendar is the MJHL trade deadline on Friday at 5pm. Portage is back in action on Saturday against the Neepawa Titans.
