The Interlake Lightning picked up a much-needed victory during a demanding three-game stretch in Manitoba Female Hockey League U18 AAA action last weekend, snapping a long skid against tough competition.
Interlake opened the weekend Friday, Jan. 9, with a strong effort against league-leading Winnipeg Ice at Veterans Memorial Sports Complex, building a 2–0 lead through two periods. Goals from Rielle Forfar and Lily MacGregor gave the Lightning early momentum, but Winnipeg Ice scored four unanswered goals in the third period to secure a 4–2 win. Joslyn Tetlock made 37 saves in the loss as Interlake was outshot 41–20.
The Lightning rebounded Saturday night with a 3–1 home victory over the Central Plains Capitals, earning just their second win of the season. Teagan Bragg opened the scoring on the power play late in the first period before Neve Halpenny netted the game-winner late in the third. Manon Trenholm added an insurance marker, while Tetlock stopped 30 shots to secure the win.
Interlake closed the weekend Sunday against the Westman Wildcats, falling 5–1 despite a competitive shot total. Westman scored three times in the opening period to take control. Ella Riddell scored the Lightning’s lone goal midway through the second, with Joslyn Tetlock coming on in relief and finishing the game in goal.
Through 21 games, Interlake sits eighth in league standings with a 2-18-0 record. Despite the results, the Lightning continue to face some of the strongest teams in the province on a regular basis as they develop and gain experience at the U18 AAA level.
Interlake is back in action Wednesday, Jan. 14, when it visits the Pembina Valley Hawks at the Access Event Centre in Morden, before travelling to Winnipeg on Sunday, Jan. 18 to face the Winnipeg Avros at Seven Oaks Arena.
