The Cranbrook Bucks are playing catchup in their first round playoff series versus the Trail Smoke Eaters after taking a 3-1 loss in game three, giving the Smokies a 2-1 edge in the best-of-seven.
Both teams had plenty of chances through the first period with the shots count at 12-12. Trail managed the lone goal of the opening frame when Dylan Lariviere tallied on a 2-on-1 rush at 16:40. The Smokies led 1-0 at intermission.
Cranbrook mounted some early second period chances, but luck was not on their side. A Smoke Eaters goal from Zach Coutu appeared to briefly deflate the home team with Trail taking a 2-0 lead at 3:32. However, a Bucks power play gave them a chance to get back in the game and they were able to capitaliz1e on the opportunity by way of a Bryce Sookro one-timer blast at 8:59 to cut Trail’s lead to 2-1. The Bucks remained down 2-1 after forty minutes.
The Bucks had designs of another comeback win, much like game one, but Trail had other plans. A trap heavy defense kept Cranbrook’s shooters at bay throughout the third period. Cranbrook pulled the goalie late with hopes of forcing a tie with the extra attacker, but Trail’s Josh Evaschesen converted on the empty net with fourteen seconds remaining in regulation to secure a 3-1 win for the Smoke Eaters.
Tuesday’s loss leaves the Bucks at a 2-1 series deficit, they were outshot 30-25. On special teams, Cranbrook finished 1/2 on the power play and 2/2 on the penalty kill.
Game four is set for Wednesday night in Cranbrook.
Buck Tracks:
- 1 assist for Matthew Gilmore, first career playoff point.
