In a decisive matchup on Tuesday night, the Prince Albert Raiders rebounded from a recent defeat to secure a convincing 5-2 victory against the Brandon Wheat Kings. Following the end of a six-game winning streak, the Raiders were eager to return to winning form at home.
The Wheat Kings struck first in the game, capitalizing on a missed opportunity by the Raiders during a 2-on-1 situation. After the Raiders lost possession, Prabh Bathal passed the puck to Luke Mistelbacher, who scored on a breakaway with a wrist shot at 6:50.
However, the Raiders responded quickly, earning a 5-on-3 power play midway through the first period. Daxon Rudolph found the net just six seconds into the advantage, firing a shot that hit the crossbar and bounced in at 9:51, marking his 19th goal of the season. The first period ended with the teams tied at 1-1, with both sides recording seven shots.
The second period saw the Raiders dominate offensively, but standout goalie Jayden Kraus kept the Wheat Kings in the game. Kraus made several impressive saves, including stopping Max Heise twice during back-to-back 2-on-1 rushes. Despite his efforts, the Raiders finally broke through at 12:42 when Max Heise assisted Linden Burrett, who scored on a backhand shot through the five-hole for his fifth goal of the season.
Heading into the third period, the Wheat Kings equalized early as Grayson Burzynski scored a wrist shot from the top of the slot at 5:29. This goal revitalized the Wheat Kings, but the Raiders quickly regained control. At 7:35, Braeden Cootes”s relentless forechecking led to a goal by Riley Boychuk, who skillfully maneuvered around the goaltender to tuck the puck inside the post for his ninth goal.
At 11:24, a breakout play saw Justice Christensen assist Daxon Rudolph, who created a rebound for Owen Corkish, allowing him to score his 11th goal of the season. The Raiders” offensive onslaught continued, culminating in Brayden Dube”s power move to the net for his 19th goal at 15:16, assisted by Brandon Gorzynski.
The game concluded with the Raiders outshooting the Wheat Kings 44-17, reflecting their dominance. Owen Corkish”s goal marked his third consecutive game with a score, while Aiden Oiring extended his point streak to 4 goals and 10 assists over the last eight games. The Raiders will now prepare for a two-game road trip in Alberta starting Friday.
