Wheaties drop final exhibition game
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – The Brandon Wheat Kings closed out their 4-game Western Hockey League pre-season schedule Saturday night with a 2-1 loss to the Blades in Saskatoon.r
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The Wheat Kings finished their exhibition schedule with one win, two losses and an overtime tie and will now concentrate on final preparations for their 2003 home opener on Friday night against the visiting Moose Jaw Warriors.r
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Two first period goals by veteran Derek Couture staked Saskatoon to the early lead Saturday night. 20-year old defenceman Reagan Leslie got the Wheat Kings on the board late in the second and despite having a number of excellent third period chances, failed to get the equalizer.r
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Saskatoon native Geoff McIntosh went all the way between the pipes for the Wheat Kings, turning aside 30 of 32 shots while veteran Adam Ward and rookie Russel Monette combined to stop 20 of 21 Brandon drives.r
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Brandon dressed eight veterans for the game including Leslie, McIntosh and forwards Tyler Dyck, Mark Shefchyk, Derek Werenka and Jeff Topilko.r
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With only five days remaining before the start of the 2003-2004 regular season, the Wheat Kings still have thirty-two players on their pre-season roster. However, several cuts are expected to be made over the course of the next few days as Brandon anticipates the return of several players from National Hockey League training camps.r
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As of now, five players remain away including Tim Konsorada and Ole-Kristian Tollefsen (Columbus), Ryan Stone (Pittsburgh), Eric Fehr (Washington) and Rick Kozak (Philadelphia). Konsorada will not be participating in the Jackets’ main camp because of a sore shoulder. He will be re-examined early this week.r
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Tickets to Friday’s Coca Cola Home Opener are on sale now at the Keystone box office, by calling 726-3555 or on line at www.ticketmaster.ca . As well, fans can still purchase season tickets and mini-packs, starting at $85.50 by visiting the Wheat Kings’ office or by calling 726-3535.r
