The Humboldt Broncos couldn’t have scripted a better way to start the 2023-24 SJHL Season.
In their home-opener at the Elgar Petersen Arena, the Broncos gave the fans everything they could cheer for in a 5-0 shutout victory over the Notre Dame Hounds on Saturday Night.
Prior to puck drop, fans were introduced to the Broncos’ newest talent in a pregame ceremony. It was mere minutes after the official puck drop that the new talent were introducing themselves to the EPA with many standouts throughout the night.
One of those standouts was Travis Bryson, a 6’3 power forward who cemented his name in the trivia books as the first goal scorer of the Broncos season.
The Broncos dominated the first period, outshooting the Hounds 22-2, however, only coming away with the 1-0 lead heading into the second frame.
Just over three minutes into the middle frame, with the overwhelming pressure continuing, Rookie Marik Mamic scores his first career SJHL goal to give the Broncos a 2-0 lead.
It was a penalty filled affair on Saturday night. The Broncos were awarded seven powerplays to the Hound’s eight. Trying to find some consistency in the season opener, the Broncos were unable to capitalize on their first six man-advantages. In the third, special teams finally clicked on both ends of the ice. Jeter Korte added to the Broncos lead with a short-handed goal, and just five minutes later, newly named Captain, Cage Newans fired home a one-timer on the powerplay for a 4-0 Bronco’s lead.
Matthew Van Blaricom, who is poised for a huge year in his second SJHL season, capped off the scoring firing a quick shot off a faceoff win by Travis Bryson.
Ben Motew, who wasn’t tested in terms of volume, had to make a handful of key stops and picked up a 21 save shutout in his first appearance.
In the return game, the Hounds found some success on offense, but the Broncos would not be denied in their first away game, knocking off the Hounds 6-3 on Sunday. The Broncos’ first four goals came off the sticks of newly acquired players. Veterans Tristan Serrao and Matthew Van Blaricom rounded out the scoring in the second and third frames.
The Broncos have over a week to rest up from their opening set. The next game is Tuesday October 3 against the La Ronge Ice Wolves here at the EPA.
- With files from Discover Humboldt
Stay up to date with local news, sports and weather by downloading the Discover Humboldt app HERE.