The Crusaders scored early and often in their inaugural game of the AJHL Showcase, defeating the Calgary Canucks 7-1 at the Encana Arena this afternoon.
Throughout the tilt, the Crusaders led the pace of play. Rookie goaltender Carter Gylander made his second start of the season and looked solid, making 19 saves and picking up his first win of the 2018/2019 season. Tyson Scott led the team in scoring on the day with two goals and one assist, with Brennan McDonnell, Jake Franczak and Erik Miller potting two points apiece. Overall, twelve Crusaders found their names on the scoresheet following the rout.
After Brennan McDonnell and Erik Miller opened the scoring in the first period – the former's being his first career AJHL goal – the Crusaders exploded for five goals in the second period. Tyson Scott picked up both his second and third goals as a Crusader in the second stanza, with Cameron Aucoin joining McDonnell in scoring his first AJHL goal in this afternoon's tilt. Carter Savoie, Erik Miller and second-year Crusaders forward Jake Franczak rounded out the goals on the afternoon.
Next up, the Crusaders close out the 2018/2019 AJHL Showcase against the host team Camrose Kodiaks. Puck drop is at 7:00 pm at the Encana Arena in Camrose, Alberta. Tickets are available at the Encana Arena box office.