Raiders Suffer Third Consecutive Loss in Narrow Defeat to Hitmen

The Prince Albert Raiders faced their third consecutive defeat on March 2, 2024, losing 3-2 against the Calgary Hitmen. Despite taking an early lead and controlling much of the game, the Raiders could not maintain their advantage as the Hitmen capitalized on key opportunities.

Early in the first period, the newly acquired Maddix McCagherty made his presence felt. He initiated a strong forecheck alongside teammate Jonah Sivertson, leading to a rebound goal that marked McCagherty’s first as a Raider and his seventh of the season. The Raiders extended their lead shortly after, as Riley Boychuk scored a wrist shot during the team’s first power play at 7:04, making it 2-0.

Hitmen Rally to Claim Victory

The Raiders maintained their lead through much of the second period, outshooting the Hitmen 22-17. They generated significant offensive pressure, yet failed to score further despite several close attempts, including a shot from McCagherty that hit the crossbar. The Hitmen managed to narrow the deficit at 12:09, when Wyatt Pisarcyk fired a point shot that found the back of the net.

Heading into the third period, the Raiders continued to control the pace. However, another goal from Pisarcyk at 5:06 leveled the score at 2-2, with Kale Dach getting a crucial tip-in. The Hitmen then took the lead when Calder Hamilton scored from a sharp angle at 9:30 during a power play, catching Raiders goalie Orsulak off guard.

Despite the Raiders’ relentless efforts to regain control, including numerous scoring chances in the final minutes, they could not find a way to beat Eric Tu, the Hitmen’s goalie, for a third time. The game concluded with the Hitmen emerging victorious at 3-2, cementing the Raiders’ first three-game losing streak of the season.

Looking Ahead

With this loss, the Raiders have now dropped three straight games, a stark contrast to their strong start where they had not lost two games in succession during the first 23 matches of the season. They will have a chance to rebound as they prepare to face the Red Deer Rebels on March 3, 2024. The game is set to begin at 19:00 Saskatchewan time, with the pregame show starting at 18:30 on Brandt Raider Radio.