In a thrilling, yet heart-wrenching game three, the Spruce Grove Saints faced a devastating 5-4 loss to the Okotoks Oilers, leading to an early exit for the Saints as they were swept in the wildcard round. The game saw an incredible performance by Teo Pisani from Sturgeon County, AB, who managed to net a hat-trick, igniting hope for the Saints but ultimately falling short.
The match started with Pisani opening the scoring, putting the Saints ahead 1-0. However, the Oilers quickly responded, with Brett Wilson tying the game at one just a minute later.
The second period proved to be a rollercoaster, with Jackson Rowland and Jagger Tapper of the Oilers finding the back of the net, giving Okotoks a 3-1 lead. Ryan Harvey from Stouffville, ON, managed to bring the Saints within striking distance with a goal, but Connor Gourley extended the Oilers’ lead to 4-2. Pisani then showcased his scoring prowess, netting two more goals to end the period tied 4-4 in a dramatic fashion.
As the tension mounted in the final frame, Dean Spak of the Oilers broke the deadlock with the game-winning goal, securing a 5-4 victory for Okotoks and sealing their sweep of the Saints with a three-game win. Despite Pisani’s heroic efforts, it wasn’t enough to overcome the Okotoks Oilers; leaving the Saints with a heartbreaking defeat and an early end to their playoff aspirations.
