Despite a 53-save performance from goaltender Brett Mirwald, the Vancouver Giants were edged 2-1 by the Everett Silvertips in game two of their opening round series on Saturday night, March 30, tying the best-of-seven at one game apiece.
Austin Roest had both goals for Everett. Vancouver got a phenomenal goal in the second period from London Hoilett to cut Everett’s lead to 2-1, but that was as close as they’d get.
Associate Coach Adam Maglio said the team played hard, but “we got a little bit away from script.”
“They were right on top of us all night. I didn’t think our puck management was as good as last night. I didn’t think we established a forecheck. Obviously not enough o-zone time. I thought tonight our discipline was pretty good, which is really important in the playoffs. I think it comes down to some details.”
Maglio was looking forward to the first home game in the series at Langley Events Centre.
“This year our home record has been really good. Our guys really feed off our crowds there and the energy they bring so we’re looking forward to that going into game three.”
Roest scored the only goal of the opening frame, putting home a feed from defenceman Tarin Smith in front to make it 1-0 at the 9:31 mark.
Early in the second, Roest deposited his second of the game from in front again, this time off a wrap-around try from Zaplitny, doubling the lead 3:43 into period two.
The Giants found new life just a few minutes after Everett made it 2-0, thanks to London Hoilett. Aaron Obobaifo chipped the puck out of the defensive zone to centre, where Hoilett got to it first to create a 1-on-1, and getting past defenceman Rylan Pearce before tucking it home past goaltender Tyler Palmer.
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Giants couldn’t build off that unfortunately, and went into the second intermission still down 2-1, with Everett leading in shots on goal 37-16.
The Silvertips shut things down effectively in the final period, only surrendering five shots on goal, holding on for the 2-1 win and tying the best-of-7 series 1-1.
Everett outshot Vancouver 55-21. Mirwald was named third star of the game.
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Games three and four are scheduled for Wednesday, April 3, and Friday, April 5, of next week at the Langley Events Centre at 7 p.m.. Click here for tickets.
Game five is now guaranteed, which will be played on Sunday, April 7 in Everett at 4:05 p.m.