The Humboldt Broncos had a three-goal comeback effort within their grasps but let it slip through the cracks in the final minute of the third period in Notre Dame on Wednesday, losing 4-3 to the division rival, Hounds.
A lackadaisical start, unfavorable bounces, and a hungry Hounds’ team were the catalysts in swinging the first half of the game in Notre Dame’s favour. The Hounds built a 2-0 lead in the first period with goals from Bexson Fox and Nick Beatty (powerplay), then adding their third straight in the middle frame off the stick of Vinny Palmarin forcing the Broncos on their heels.
A fourth goal was even scored by Notre Dame shortly after their third but was waived off due to goaltender interference.
The disallowed goal seemed to spark Humboldt in their comeback efforts.
Jacob Strizzi tossed the monkey off his back and snapped an 8-game goal scoring drought, but still picked up his team-leading 11th of the season. He added an assist on the night and sits in 4th in the SJHL point race with 26.
Late in the second period, Marik Mamic extended his goal scoring streak to three games and picked up his eight of the season to cut the lead to 3-2.
Finally, with 4:54 left in the third period, Maddox Amaral also snapped a lengthy goal scoring drought adding his fourth of the year and first since October 12th to tie the game at 3-3.
The Broncos have relentlessly and routinely had the Notre Dame Hounds’ number over the last half decade, winning 24 of the last 27 meetings. However, albeit a stunning comeback, the Broncos left the Duncan McNeil Arena empty handed, surrendering the game-winning goal to Anthony Nolan with just 41 seconds left.
Ty Matonovich was credited with his 5th loss on the season, stopping 28 of 32 shot faced.
With Friday’s game in Weyburn being rescheduled, the Broncos will return home for a matchup with the Nipawin Hawks on Saturday, November 30th.
