The Buffalo Jr. Sabres survived a determined comeback attempt by the Burlington Cougars on the way to a 4-3 win.
Buffalo took a 4-1 lead during the second period, only to have Burlington storm back on a Michael Alberga goal 10:44 into the third period to pull to one goal down.
David Baskerville had a great game for the Jr. Sabres, netting two goals.
Buffalo forced the Cougars goalie Joe Noonan to work between the pipes, taking 41 shots. The Jr. Sabres could not stay out of the penalty box, as the team accrued 16 minutes in penalties during the game.
Buffalo also had goals scored by Christopher Berger and Ryan Kuhn, who each put in one. In addition, Buffalo received assists from Justin Cmunt, who had two and Aiden Salerno, Aaron Reinig, Tim Nicksic, Daniel Lafontaine, and Josh Gabriel, who each chipped in one.
Burlington’s offense rang up 35 shots on Buffalo’s net. The Cougars were forced to rely heavily on their penalty kill unit throughout the game, as they racked up 16 penalty minutes. Burlington got an offensive boost from its blueliners, who contributed two goals during the game.
David Thomson also scored for Burlington. Other players who recorded assists for Burlington were Kyle West, Ben Scheel, Chris Cudek, and Jack Jeffers, who contributed one each.
Alex Connal made 32 saves for the Jr. Sabres on 35 shots. Buffalo registered two goals on seven power play opportunities. Noonan rejected 37 shots on goal for the Cougars. Burlington registered one goal on seven power play opportunities.
