WolfPack score early and often in big road victory over Eastern Washington

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Thompson Rivers University made the long trip south on Friday and came away with an 8-2 win over Eastern Washington University at EWU Recreation Centre to boost their regular seaosn record to 4-4 in eight games.

It was a night to remember for a WolfPack squad that rallied hard and pushed through for 60 minutes of strong hockey despite a depleted defensive core that was without veterans Curtis Tonello and Cody Rose. Tonello missed the game due to injury while Rose had passport issues that kept him from making the trip.

 "We were down to a skeleton crew of 14 gutsy players," says head coach Don Schulz. "We were only able to dress four defensemen and 10 forwards. Scott Bollefer played mega minutes on defense and was a reliable Steady Eddie all night."

Alessio Tomassetti had a big five point night to lead the way offensively for the ‘Pack. He slammed home three goals and picked up two assists. Anthony Delong, with his first goal of the season, and Jake Howardson, Jordan Urban, Lucas Daoust and Rigby Burgart all added singles.

Meanwhile, Colten DeFrias contributed four assists while Rigby Burgart set up a pair of goals.

Shane Mainprize was solid throughout the game, stopping 33 Eastern Washington shots. Forwards AJ Sanders and Jake Flynn were the only Eagles to beat the TRU starter.

Jason Greenwell started in goal for EWU, but was pulled after four goals allowed and replaced by Cash Ulrich, who was left with the challenge of stopping a fiery orange WolfPack team and gave up the final four TRU markers.

"The win was a result of timely scoring," says Schulz. "All the boys played well to sustain the momentum and pace of the game. We finally put together a solid 60 minutes and it feels good to walk away with a win. Our hope for tomorrow night is to play more of the same hockey."

On the injury front, Nathan Michaels needed stiches following the game but should be back in the line-up on Saturday. Lucas Daoust injured his hand and it is unknown at this time whether he will dress for the rematch.

Saturday's game between the Eagles and WolfPack is set for a 7:00 PM start from Cheney, WA. Fans can view the game online at www.fasthockey.com.