LANGLEY, BC — The SFU Men’s Hockey Team suffered their first loss of 2018 with a 4-1 loss against the Trinity Western Spartans, snapping a three game game winning.

SFU struggled to score against TWU netminder Silas Matthys, who made 27 saves on 28 shots (.964 SV%).

Both sides traded chances in the first period, but neither team could find the back of the net.

Eric Callegari had the best chance for the Clan early, with a shot from left circle beating Matthys, only to hit the crossbar.

SFU had a prime opportunity when they were awarded a five-on-three man advantage for 35 seconds, but nearly as soon as it was called, Tyler Basham was assessed a two-minute minor for slashing.

Brendan Lamont had a chance in close near the end of the first, but couldn’t get his stick free to take the shot.

SFU led 10-9 in shots heading into the first intermission.

Trinity Western got on the board first when Kade Vilio put in a power play goal just 1:15 into the second frame.

The Spartans found the back of the net again on the power play midway through the second, but it was waved off, keeping the score at 1-0 throughout the second.

Trinity Western would add to their lead when Dylan Sakatch scored his first career goal shorthanded 37 seconds into the final frame.

Ian Mackey tipped Callegari’s shot from the point to put SFU on the board 4:55 into the third, making it a one-goal game. Braxton Bilous also collected an assist.

Nearly five minutes later, however, Trinity Western would score another one, and Evan Last’s empty netter with 52 seconds left ended any chance of a Clan comeback.

Lyndon Stanwood made 28 saves on 31 shots (.903 SV%). Trinity Western outshot SFU 32-28.

SFU will look to get back into the win column at home at the Bill Copeland Sports Centre versus UVic tonight. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and free for children under 6 or for SFU students with valid ID. The game will also be streamed live on HockeyTV. Puck drop is at 7 pm.

Three Stars:
1st Star: TWU #7 Dylan Sakatch (1G, 1A, GWG)
2nd Star: TWU #89 Kade Vilio (1G, 0A)
3rd Star: SFU #22 Ian Mackey (1G, 0A)