Austin Wilson scored a hat trick and recorded two assists to help the Blackfalds Wranglers beat the Airdrie Thunder 7-3 last night.

It was a pivotal contest as Blackfalds is chasing Airdrie for the second seed in the HJHL North. The Wranglers are two points back with two games to play in the regular season.

“Good night for the guys, big divisional game, happy to get the win,” said Wilson, a 20-year-old from Sylvan Lake.

“We’re pushing for second place here and we want it bad.”

Head coach Sean Neumeier said Wilson has developed a lot of chemistry with linemate Landon Siegle, the league-leading goal scorer.

“They’re using each other really well. He came out inspired tonight … must have smelt a big game and he had a big game,” Neumeier said.

The Wranglers visit the Red Deer Vipers on Saturday before closing the regular season at home against Stettler on Sunday.