The Moose were determined to bounce back after a tough loss to the Wranglers, where they gave up six goals in the second period, ultimately falling 7-2 in Calgary. Today’s matchup was all about redemption and securing those crucial two points in a tightly contested Central Division race.
With Thomas Milic back in goal, replacing Domenic DiVincentiis, and Fabian Wagner stepping in for Jacob Julien, the Moose were ready for action.
Moose Lineup:
- Shaw-Ford-Di Giuseppe
- Wagner-Yager-Chibrikov
- Fagemo-Gustafsson-Duehr
- JAD-Zhilkin-Barlow
- Sautner-Bauer
- Phillips-Anhorn
- Clague-Barteaux
- Milic
Game Highlights:
Isaak Phillips kicked things off for the Moose, blasting a shot into the net after a faceoff win from Jets prospect Brayden Yager. This marked Phillips' eighth goal of the season, with Yager collecting his 15th assist. Phillips nearly pulled off a Gordie Howe hat trick, dropping the gloves shortly after his goal.
In a hometown highlight, Jaret Anderson-Dolan put Manitoba ahead 2-1, thanks to a pinpoint pass from Jets prospect Danny Zhilkin. Colby Barlow, another Winnipeg prospect, also chipped in with an assist.
A rare sight saw Tyrel Bauer take a tumble, possibly from some friendly fire involving Thomas Milic’s blocker. Fortunately, Bauer returned to the ice without issue.
Adding to the hometown heroics, Dylan Anhorn scored his second goal of the season in Calgary, pushing the Moose to a 3-2 lead in the third period.
Jets goalie prospect Thomas Milic was a wall in the third period, making 21 saves on 22 shots. He faced 24 shots in the first two periods combined, finishing the game with an impressive 44 saves on 46 shots.
David Gustafsson sealed the deal with an insurance goal, his 10th of the season, giving the Moose a 4-2 lead with just over a minute remaining.
With this win, the Moose improved their record to 28-21-5-1, solidifying their third-place standing in the Central Division. They sit six points behind the Wolves, who are in second with 68 points, but hold a two-point lead (with a game in hand) over the Stars and a seven-point cushion (also with a game in hand) over the Admirals.
Looking Ahead:
The Moose can enjoy a well-deserved day off tomorrow, reflecting on a successful end to their road trip and gearing up for the next challenge.