In a battle of two nationally ranked teams, the University of Manitoba Bisons and Mount Royal Cougars, both lived up to their CIS top 10 statuses, taking one game apiece over the weekend. Each side pitched a shutout, as the Cougars prevailed 4-0 on Friday, while Manitoba snagged Saturday’s contest 1-0.
Friday night’s loss was highlighted by standout play from Mount Royal goalie Dalyn Flette, who stopped all 28 shots he faced, including a breakaway on forward Jordan DePape in the second period.
The Bisons struggled to stay out of the penalty box all weekend, racking up over 40 minutes of penalties over the two games. Manitoba started Friday night with two penalties in the opening minutes of the game and continued the trend until the final whistle , which limited their chances of gaining momentum. On the flipside, Mount Royal had their fair share of discipline issues as well, though the Bisons weren’t able to notch any power play goals.
Mount Royal got goals from four separate players, including three in the third period. Jeff Barrett, Matt Brown, Tyler Fiddler, and Cody Cartier all lit the lamp for the Cougars. Shaquille Merasty and Aaron Lewadniuk led the way offensively for Manitoba, with four shots.
After allowing four goals the previous night, goalie Deven Dubyk came into Saturday night on a mission. Dubyk stood tall, stopping all 28 shots that came his way. First-year defenceman Josh Elmes potted the winner late in the third period.
Saturday’s game had a noticeably physical edge. Pushing, shoving, and punches resulted in no love lost for the contest. Darren Bestland led the charge for the Bisons, throwing his weight around all weekend long.
Both teams now head into a conference bye. Manitoba’s next action will be on Oct. 31, when they head to Lethbridge for a weekend set.
