The Lacombe Generals are off to a strong start to their play-offs following a win against the Stony Plain Eagles.

The game started and ended with goals from Stephen Phee. The Generals began the second period, 1-0 for the Generals where the Eagles scored their first goal tying the game. Keenan Desmet broke the tie before the third period. In the third, the Eagles scored again tying the score up once again. Kyle Stroh was able to break the tie in the third and Stephen Phee scored the final goal on an empty netter. The Eagles were able to score once again but were not able to push the game into overtime leaving the score at 4-3 for the Generals.

Sean Robertson, head coach commented on Stephen Phee’s improving performance over the last few games saying, “He has picked up his step. I like what he does. I trust the way he plays. He’s very responsible defensively. It’s kind of funny how it works, when you’re good defensively you end up with the puck more and you get those chances.”

The Generals have been trying to keep the game simple in order to win. Robertson added, “You can’t cheat offensively, you have to actually cheat defensively.”

Throughout the season, the Generals have often been managing games with short lineups and a number of new players. Luke Simpson was a new face on the ice during the game and Robertson commented, “Tonight was our first look at him. He is responsible defensively. He can move his feet, he’s a pretty good skater. It’s going to take some time for him to get comfortable.”

Robertson expects another short line-up on Wednesday where the Generals take on the Stony Plain Eagles once again in an away game.

“We had the right group tonight. Wednesday night is going to be tough for us but so be it. It’s a challenge we welcome it.”