Sabers Triumph in Thrilling Three-Game Series Against Lakers

by James Karr

San Diego, CA - In a thrilling three-game series, the San Diego Sabers squared off against the Lake Tahoe Lakers, and the action on the ice did not disappoint. With a mixture of high-scoring games, power-play prowess, and penalty-ridden periods, hockey fans were treated to some intense and exciting matchups.

Game 1 - Friday, October 13, 2023

The series opener, held at the South Lake Tahoe Ice Arena, showcased the Sabers' offensive prowess. The game concluded with a 5-3 victory for the San Diego Sabers.

The first period saw the Lakers take an early lead when Khammo capitalized on an opportunity just 1:21 into the game, courtesy of assists from Cosner and O'Dowd. The Sabers found themselves in penalty trouble, with Litzinger serving a major penalty for high-sticking.

The second period, however, belonged to the Sabers. Almanza, Gouin (on the power play), Litzinger, and Gouin (once again on the power play) notched goals for San Diego. Lake Tahoe managed to respond with a goal from Laurila. Penalties were a recurring theme throughout the game, including roughing, interference, and unsportsmanlike conduct.

The third period saw Lake Tahoe battle to close the gap with a goal from Laurila, but the Sabers sealed the deal with a late goal from Almanza. 

Game 2 - Saturday, October 14, 2023

The second game of the series saw a role reversal as the Lake Tahoe Lakers secured a hard-fought 4-3 victory over the San Diego Sabers.

In the first period, the Lakers took charge with a power-play goal from Gunn. The Sabers' Ouellet answered back with a power-play goal of his own. The Lakers continued to impress with goals from Laurila, building a 3-1 lead by the end of the period.

Fernandez extended the Lakers' lead with a goal in the second period, and penalties continued to mount for both teams.

Despite being down, the Sabers mounted a third-period comeback with goals from Frizado and Therrien, but penalties remained a central theme in a game filled with roughing and misconduct calls.

Game 3 - Sunday, October 15, 2023

The series finale delivered another thrilling game, with the San Diego Sabers claiming victory with a 5-3 score.

In the first period, Gouin of the Sabers opened the scoring with a power-play goal, quickly answered by O'Dowd of the Lakers. The period featured multiple penalties, including a disqualification for fighting.

The second period was a rollercoaster of goals, featuring scores from Belda (Lakers), Verstegen, Gouin (power play), Litzinger (short-handed), and Gouin (power play).

The third period brought a power-play goal for the Lakers, but the game concluded with the Sabers holding onto their lead. Penalties, once again, played a significant role in the game.