Winnipeg, Manitoba - A Wild Comeback: Iowa Dominates Manitoba with Five Unanswered Goals
In a thrilling display of resilience and skill, the Iowa Wild stormed back to secure a 5-1 victory over the Manitoba Moose at the Canada Life Centre, capping off a weekend sweep. The win was a testament to the Wild's depth and determination, as they overcame an early deficit to dominate the game.
Early Tension and a Quick Response
The Moose struck first, just 1:32 into the game, when Kale Clague's shot from the top of the right circle found its way past Cal Petersen, who made 21 saves on the night. But the Wild didn't take long to respond. Tyler Pitlick leveled the score at 5:04, firing a wrister from the high slot, thanks to assists from Dylan Gambrell and Carson Lambos.
Turning the Tide
The momentum swung decisively in Iowa's favor at 12:57. After a centering pass from Gambrell to Hunter Haight, Pitlick seized a loose puck behind the net and executed a slick wraparound, beating Manitoba's Domenic DiVincentiis, who recorded 30 saves.
Nicolas Aubé-Kubel then extended Iowa's lead with a breakaway goal at 18:39, assisted by David Jiricek and Ben Jones, giving the Wild a two-goal cushion as they headed into the first intermission. Despite being outshot 10-7 in the opening period, Iowa's efficiency in front of the net was evident.
Sealing the Deal
The second period saw the Wild continue their offensive onslaught. Riley Heidt capitalized on a pass from Aubé-Kubel, sliding a backhand shot past DiVincentiis at 11:13.
The relentless pressure didn't stop there. Oskar Olausson and Aubé-Kubel combined to set up Jack Peart for a powerful one-timer from the left point, making it 5-1 at 15:29.
By the end of the second period, the Wild had outshot the Moose 19-17, showcasing their ability to control the game and dictate the pace.
Lockdown Defense
In the final period, Petersen was a wall, stopping all eight shots he faced. Iowa's defense held firm, ensuring Manitoba couldn't find a way back into the game. The Wild outshot the Moose 35-25 overall, demonstrating both offensive prowess and defensive solidity.
Despite going 0-for-3 on the power play, Iowa's penalty kill was perfect, nullifying both of Manitoba's man-advantage opportunities.
Looking Ahead
With this commanding performance, the Wild head back to Casey’s Center to face the Milwaukee Admirals on Tuesday, Feb. 24 at 7 p.m., riding high on momentum and confidence. Iowa Wild fans can look forward to more thrilling hockey as the team continues its campaign.
For more information on Iowa Wild hockey, visit their official website. Season tickets for the 2026-27 season are available now, offering fans the chance to catch all the action live. Plus, don't miss any of the games by streaming them on FloHockey.tv.