Cougars can’t hold on, fall in shootout

PRINCE GEORGE — It was looking pretty good for the Prince George Cougars until 12 seconds into the third period. That is when the Royals’ Gary Haden got his first of two goals in the period, tying the game and sending it to overtime. There, Victoria stole a win in the shootout as the Cougars fell 3-2.

Reid Perepeluk and Ethan Browne scored the goals for the Cougars to put them up 2-0 after two periods. There were plenty of opportunities, Cats going 1/6 with the man advantage. PG also held the shot advantage, 42-34.

Taylor Gauthier was strong once again, making 32 saves through regulation and overtime. He allowed just one goal in the shootout, that to Tarun Fizer, and the Cats were unable to convert on any of their three tries. Gauthier also picked up an assist in the losing effort.

Saturday night the teams meet again at CN Centre for the Teddy & Toque Toss game. Puck drop scheduled for 7 o’clock.