By Nathan Kanter

North Stars prevail on Teddy Bear Toss Night

Dec 9, 2016 | 9:15 PM

The North Stars won their fifth straight game on Friday, this one over the Yorkton Terriers on teddy bear toss night. It was their 18th win in their last 19 games.

Despite outhsooting the visitors 47-19, North Stars head coach Nate Bedford was not pleased with his team’s defensive effort, specifically the amount of odd-man rushes they gave up.

“We escaped with a win to be honest,” Bedford said. “Just odd-man rushes alone, if [Joel] Grzybowski isn’t that good, we’re in trouble.”

Gryzbowski’s 19 saves were enough for his third shutout of the season. His record is now 13-2, which is identical to teammate Taryn Kotchorek.

The first period was close, with the shots 15-10 for the North Stars. Both teams created high quality chances, but neither side could convert.

2023-24 Hardware

AAA Stars celebrate best of season with year-end awards

8h ago

Real Estate

Buying or selling a house? Do your homework first

11h ago

NB council

City approves new land sale on Buhler Bay

12h ago

In the second, Coby Downs would break the deadlock after a backhand wrap-around attempt beat goaltender Matt Vernon. Vernon, the son of former NHLer Mike Vernon, was stellar all night, stopping 45 of 46 shots.

Yorkton only managed three second period shots and six third period shots, but it was still a one-goal game until Layne Young added an empty netter to seal the deal with under 10 seconds left in the third.

Many of Yorkton’s 19 shots were high quality chances. When you combine that with Vernon’s strong goaltender performance, you get a really close game.

“Yorkton played a great game. They were skating hard,” Bedford said. “There’s no reason in the world that we shouldn’t work harder than we have.

“I think when you’re winning, being comfortable is the last thing you want.”

The North Stars have a quick turnaround, as they host the Kindersley Klippers on Saturday night at the Civic Centre.

NorSask North Stars hockey begins at 7:15 p.m. with the Ultra Print pre-game show on CJNB/CJNBS. Puck drop is 7:30.