NAIT Ooks book finals ticket with win over RDP Kings

Lloydminster, AB - The first men's semi-final game featured the NAIT Ooks and the Red Deer Polytechnic Kings. The two teams met on Friday in a physical match, resulting in a 2-2 draw. The stakes were even higher for the Sunday morning match, with the victor earning a spot in the ACAC Gold medal match.

The game once again began physical and high-intensity, as the previous meeting had been between the teams. An early chance for Red Deer proved unsuccessful, and the Ooks were able to capitalize with an early goal from Mark Hinteregger. The Kings tied the game up at 14:15 with a goal from Eshay Fernandes. The intensity continued throughout the first half, with both teams engaging in a very physical battle. Jameson Kiezik added a goal for the Ooks late in the half, forcing Red Deer to call a timeout to reset. The tensions continued to rise between the two teams as the first half ended.

Peter Jones continued to prove why he was crowned North Player of the Year, adding an early goal for the Ooks in the second half. NAIT was able to dictate the game throughout the beginning of the half, putting constant pressure on the Kings' defense. Jones added his second goal of the match at 22:06, ultimately skyrocketing tensions between the teams. The physicality continued with Ajdin Sarcevic and Patrick Culshaw receiving yellow cards for misconduct. Njegos Bajovic provided a goal for Red Deer in their hopes of closing the gap, with the assistance of goalkeeper Brian Murray instrumental in the charge. Matthew Herbut of the Ooks scored late in the second half, solidifying a 5-2 victory for the NAIT Ooks. Frustrations boiled over in the final minute, with coach Jeff Paulas being ejected.

Matthew Herbut was awarded Player of the Game for the NAIT Ooks, and Skipper Martin received the honours for the Red Deer Polytechnic Kings.