First-year forward JP Villeneuve scored with just over a minute remaining in regulation to send the Trinity Western men’s hockey team to a season-opening 4-3 victory over the Thompson Rivers WolfPack.
The B.C. Intercollegiate Hockey League game was played on Friday at Kamloops’ Memorial Arena.
Chris Hirano had two goals and an assist while Cody Stephenson had a power-play goal.
Villeneuve also had an assist and was named the BCIHL player of the week for his efforts.
Both of his points came in the third period, as he first set up Hirano for the tying goal and then notched the winner with 1:29 to play.
Goaltender Harry Fredeman made 31 saves for the victory.
“I thought Harry played a great game and battled really hard,” said Spartans coach Barret Kropf. “It was a good way for us to start the season and gain some confidence coming out of a month of hard work.
“We have a long way to go but it’s nice to get this first road win to start the season. It was a great effort all around.”
The team is off until their home opener at the Langley Events Centre when they host the Eastern Washington Eagles on Oct. 18 and 19.
