The Moose Jaw Warriors scored early and kept the pressure on from there as they took a 6-2 win over the Brandon Wheat Kings in Brandon on Sunday night (Dec. 30).
The Warriors improved to 19-8-5-1 with the victory and currently sit in fifth place in the Western Hockey League's Eastern Conference, a point back of Lethbridge for fourth.
Justin Almeida had a pair of goals for the Warriors, who outshot Brandon 19-8 in the opening frame and 40-29 overall. Tristin Langan picked up a goal and an assist while Jett Woo, Tate Popple and Kaeden Taphorn had their other markers. Daniil Stepanov had two assists.
Braden Schneider and Nolan Ritchie replied for the Wheat Kings.
Brodan Salmond made 27 saves to earn the victory.
The Warriors were 1-for-7 on the power play, Brandon was 0-for-4.
Moose Jaw led 3-1 after the first and 5-1 through two.
The Warriors are back in action tonight when they host the Wheat Kings for the annual New Year's Eve game. The 50-50 pot starts at $30,000 for the contest and special draws will be held throughout the night.
