OLDS — Steve Papciak was a difference-maker Tuesday night at the Sports Complex.
The Canmore Eagles netminder turned aside 41 shots to lead the visitors to a 3-2 Alberta Junior Hockey League victory over the Olds Grizzlys, who in turn suffered their first loss of the season after opening with three victories.
Olds held an 18-9 advantage in shots through the first 20 minutes, but the teams were tied 1-1 at the intermission. Willy Sakal opened the scoring for the Eagles at 18:39, but Spencer Dorowicz pulled the hosts even just 19 seconds later.
Following a scoreless middle frame, Ben Bitz notched a power-play goal for Canmore 25 seconds into the third period. Connor Hoekstra added an insurance marker at 17:28 and Grizzlys veteran Nicholas Bourgeois rounded out the scoring with 11 seconds remaining.
Brandon Thiessen made 21 saves for the Grizzlys, who were zero-four-four on the power play. The Eagles were one-for-one with a man advantage.
The Grizzlys are on the road this weekend for games Friday and Saturday in Grande Prairie and St. Albert. The Brooks Bandits visit the Sports Complex next Tuesday.