Matt Krahn, The Neepawa Natives 18 year old goaltender, was the difference maker on Saturday night, as he shut out the Wayway Wolverines by a score of 1-0.

 

"Krahner was outstanding tonight," offered Natives' coach Bryant Perrier, after watching his veteran goaltender turn aside 34 saves to take two points and a shutout from the evening's events. "Our team was really good and we played a very good road game. But, Matt was just exceptional."

 

Perrier, who rarely singles out the performance of individual players, did not hesitate to heap praise on Krahn.

 

"Matt is as good as anyone in the game when he is on his game," he said. "He has been so good for us this year. He has done so many things to better himself. His conditioning and dedication has been outstanding. He and (Natives' 17 year old goaltender) Ryan (Bembridge) are just exceptional people and athletes. We are very fortunate to have them."

 

As for the rest of the team's efforts and contribution, Perrier said his group had to "gut it out" to get the 1-0 win.

"We went hard last night with Dauphin, and tonight was a game where we had to really work hard to beat a fresh team. It was a good effort."

 

With three games remaining, and third place well within their reach, Perrier believes the team is playing well because of a simple focus.

 

"We are just going a day at a time and trying to be successful now on a nightly basis. One thing about our team is that we have had no easy nights. It's been a war every night."

 

As for the season series with Wayway, Perrier and his troops finish the season with seven wins in eight starts against the hard working Wolverines.

 

"We had their number and I can't tell you why it works that way. But, we aren't asking questions. We will take the points."

 

 

Seventeen year old goaltender Ryan Bembridge is currently recovering from an injury sustained in a collision in a game against Dauphin.

 

"Ryan is getting the best care from our medical staff," said Coach Perrier. "We are into the recovery and precautionary stage right now, so there has been a lot of progress."

 

"We are being very careful. Having said that, Ryan's progress has been really favorable."

 

Bembridge's status is considered "day to day," according to Coach Perrier.