Vikings dump V's 7-1

LAC LA BICHE – It wasn't the result they wanted in their final home game of the season – but at least they ended it with the sound of a goal horn ringing in their ears.

The Portage College Voyageurs spotted the Augustana Vikings a 7-0 lead Friday night but managed to break Zach DeGraves' shutout bid with 1:51 to play in the third period before succumbing 7-1. The score wasn't indicative of the play, however, as the Voyageurs battled hard to the end and made DeGraves earn his player of the game award, firing 31 shots at the Vikings' tender.

As has been the case for most of the season, special teams were the Voyageurs' downfall. The Vikings potted four powerplay markers while killing off all three Portage man advantages.

"It's been our Achilles heel all year," said Voyageurs Head Coach Nate Bedford. "We just haven't been able to weather the storm when we're shorthanded or score a powerplay goal when we need one."

Nonetheless, the head coach was pleased with his players' efforts once again.

"We've worked really hard most of this year and battled our opponents until the final whistle," said Bedford. "I can't fault the boys' work ethic or desire. It's been a tough year but I'm still proud of my team."

Garry Mindus was honoured before the game for his volunteerism in the community during his five-year career. The Voyageurs forward volunteered an impressive 300 hours at events and fundraisers during his time with the team. He was presented with a framed version of his jersey by Lac La Biche County Mayor Omer Moghrabi prior to puck drop. The Voyageurs also announced that Mindus' number 29 will be retired for the upcoming hockey season. Fittingly, he was chosen as player of the game for his squad.

The Voyageurs wrap up the season with a road contest against the Vikings on Saturday.