Ice Wolves drop decision on road  

The La Ronge Ice Wolves suffered their ninth straight loss following a 3-1 setback Sunday in Melfort.

“I thought we got off to a really good start,” said Ice Wolves Asst. Coach Kyle Schneider. “In the second period, we were put on our heels – we got outshot pretty heavily.” 

La Ronge’s Max Henderson opened the scoring 10:22 into the first when he beat James Venne on a partial breakaway. Venne ended up making 23 saves for the victory in the Melfort net. 

Topher Chircio was sensational for the Ice Wolves, making 39 saves in a losing cause. Chirico kept the Mustangs off the board until Clay Sleeva tied the game at one 10:28 into the third frame.

Ryan Duguay scored the eventual game-winner with 4:03 left in the third period. Sleeva added his second of the afternoon late in regulation to seal the victory for the Mustangs. 

Meantime, the Ice Wolves had plenty of opportunities to score on the man advantage Sunday, but they failed to convert on seven chances.

“Give Melfort some credit, their penalty kill is really tough to play against,” said Schneider. “They are on you, they take away time and space.” 

With the loss, the Ice Wolves slipped to 15-34-5 on the season, which still has them 11th in the SJHL standings. La Ronge will look to rebound next Friday night in Nipawin against the Hawks. 

Following Friday’s game, the Ice Wolves conclude their season next Saturday afternoon at home versus Melfort.