Defending champs, winners of 20 straight games, and possessing the top five scorers in the league- the NAIT Ooks brought a formidable challenge as they faced off against Briercrest Friday night. While it's been a bit of a tough go so far this season for Briercrest, they've shown that they can compete with any team in this league. They're also on a modest streak of their own, having won their last two Friday night games.

Some technical difficulties with the sound system right before the opening face-off resulted in a few moments of silence and put sharper contrast between the stillness prior to puck drop and the furious pace that immediately follows. The first chance came from Josiah Friesen, who raced down the boards and tested the NAIT goaltender with a strong deke to the net. The guests put an early goal in, but Briercrest was undeterred. Taylor Epp stole the puck at his own blue line and fed Jacob Baribeau, who drew a penalty as he drove to the net. The powerplay yielded some chances and Briercrest outshot the visitors for the majority of the first period, but weren't able to tie things up.

The line of Brennan Gasmo, Ben Feere, and Chad Davidson was strong all night, and they created some good pressure on the Ooks defence. Christian Mueller made some great saves and Briercrest traded chances with the visitors, but the score started to creep away by the end of the second period. Gasmo drew two penalties with his hard work, but the powerplays were killed off by the guests. Briercrest would get some good chances on a late man advantage, but the final buzzer sounded at 8-0 for the visitors.

As always with this group of men, there is much to be proud of. They exhibit Christian character and an exemplary work ethic in every game, and continue to play hard no matter what the score. It's easy to admire them on and off the ice.

Players of the game were Christian Mueller for Briercrest and Trace Elson for NAIT. Tomorrow's rematch starts at 2:00pm.

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