CALGARY, AB - The MRU Cougars men's hockey defeated an illness depleted University of Saskatchewan Huskies team, 3-1 on Friday night.
 
Both squads started the game with a relatively tame pace with neither side showing an advantage.
 
Halfway through the opening frame, Michael Ladyman caught an edge right in front of the Cougars' net. Huskies forward, Jaxan Kaluski picked up the puck all alone and ripped it past Riley Sims. A rare mishap from Ladyman, who has been stellar in his rookie season.
 
In the second period, MRU grabbed hold of the game. Kyle Walker was fed a pass from Josh Tarzwell as he entered the rush. With an abundance of time and space, Walker fired a wrister past Huskies netminder, Roddy Ross to tie the game.
 
Saskatchewan managed a few chances of their own on a powerplay. Riley Sims, who left the Cougars' last game in their first period, stoned the Huskies on their chances and also got some help from his goal posts. Just as the Huskies penalty expired, Blake Stevenson dropped a pass for Robbie Holmes. The former Regina Pat sniped it past the blocker of Ross to give MRU the lead.
 
In the third, the Cougars extended their lead. Riley Sawchuk shovelled the puck forward to Connor Bouchard and he was hauled down on the breakaway and the referee signalled for a penalty shot. On the attempt Bouchard moved in on Ross slowly, deked in tight and roofed it with his forehand to give Mount Royal a 3-1 lead.
 
Despite late pressure from Saskatchewan with their net empty, the Cougars secured the win.
 
The Huskies and Cougars will face-off again Saturday night at 6 p.m. at Flames Community Arena. Watch live on Canada West TV.