The Neepawa Natives were able to close out 2015 with a win. Unfortunately, that late December success did not roll over into early January. The team played its final game of 2015 on Dec. 30, when they travelled to Waywayseecappo to take on the Wolverines. Kyle McDonald scored a pair of goals, including the game winner, as Neepawa ended a five-game skid with a 4-1 road victory.
Kruz Listmayer opened up the scoring for the Natives in the first period, while Ashton Anderson added an empty-netter to ensure the win. Jeremy Link earned the victory in goal for Neepawa, but was injured late in the third period. Troy Pierce ended the game between the pipes. The extent of Link’s injury is not known at this time.
After a short break to celebrate the new year, Neepawa hit home ice for the first time in just over two weeks on Sunday, Jan. 3, as they played the Swan Valley Stampeders. Despite a strong offensive effort from the club throughout the game, Neepawa was defeated 6-5.
Reigan Buchanan was the scoring leader for the Natives, as he registered a pair of goals and added an assist on the evening. John McCammon, Jace Pesch and Nolan Martens each added a goal for the home side.
For the Stampeders, Michael Fortin scored twice, while Daylon Creasy picked up the game winner with just 1:28 remaining in the third period.
Troy Pierce made 52 saves in goal for Neepawa, while Stamps goaltender Zach De Graves was peppered with 50 shots on goal and made 45 saves for the win.