The Fernie Ghostriders wrapped up a mixed weekend, falling 5-1 to Princeton on Friday before bouncing back with a dominant 8-2 win over Osoyoos. With just three games remaining in the regular season, the Riders are looking to finish strong and potentially overtake Kimberley for the top spot in the division.
Fernie 1 @ Princeton 5
The Riders were outshot 34-24 and struggled to generate offense, with Ben Skarsen (above) scoring the lone goal. Skarsen now has seven points in his last four games.
Fernie 8 @ Osoyoos 2
Fernie responded in a big way, scoring three goals in the first period and five in the second. Lucas Desjarlais led the way with a hat trick and an assist, returning from a one-game suspension. Eric Martin contributed four assists (now at 54 points), while Taylor Haggerty added two goals, bringing his season total to 29.
Nick Kunyk was back in net after serving a six-game suspension, securing the win in his return. The Coyotes, battling Kelowna for a playoff spot, will be disappointed with their effort, especially after Kelowna pulled off a 6-5 win on Saturday.
With 58 points, the Ghostriders have clinched second place in the Eddie Mountain Division, but they still have a mathematical chance to catch Kimberley (63 points) for first. Kimberley could have locked up the top spot but lost 6-5 to Kelowna, keeping the division title race alive.
Fernie will close out the season with three key matchups:
Tuesday, Feb 18: vs Golden (33 pts) at home
Friday, Feb 21: @ Invermere
Saturday, Feb 22: vs Creston (35 pts) in Fernie
With Golden and Creston both fighting for the final playoff spot, the upcoming games will be crucial for all teams involved.
Fernie and Kimberley have secured home ice for the first round, but their opponents are yet to be determined. Meanwhile, the Princeton Posse (68 pts), Revelstoke Grizzlies (66 pts), and Grand Forks Border Bruins (66 pts) are in a tight battle for first overall in the KIJHL.
With the regular season winding down, the Ghostriders are looking to build momentum heading into the playoffs. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting finish!
Content: Ghostriders
