Three-Game Recap: Sabers Battle Through Wins and Losses

The San Diego Sabers wrapped up an intense three-game series with standout performances and a mix of highs and lows. They came out with a 2-1 record. Here is a breakdown of the action as the Sabers played through this weekend of games. 

October 17, Game 1: Sabers Fall to Bombers after Tough Second Period

San Diego Sabers 2, Long Beach Bombers 6

In their second matchup of the season, the San Diego Sabers fell to the Long Beach Bombers in a 6-2 defeat. The first period saw a slow start from both sides, with neither team managing to find the back of the net. With both goalies standing tall, it looked to be an even matchup after the first period, with the scoreboard remaining blank. The game shifted in the second when the Bombers came out flying, scoring five unanswered goals and leaving the Sabers to reassess their game. The Sabers finally got on the board late in the second period with a power play goal from #6 Knut Hornkvist with an assist from #4 Aidan Cosgrove, making it 5-1 heading into the third period. The final period saw both teams exchange goals, with the Bombers scoring their final goal of the game early into the third, and the Sabers responding and scoring the final goal of the game, a power play goal by Sabers forward #94 Sam Bailey, with assists from #21 Caleb Murray and #6 Knut Hornkvist, closing out the game 6-2. Though the Sabers showed resilience in the third period, the damage from the second period was too significant to overcome, and the loss put the Sabers in a tough spot as they looked to regroup for the next game. 

Photo by Fallon Johnson

October 18, Game 2: San Diego Sabers Edges Out Ontario Jr Reign in 3-2 Victory

San Diego Sabers 3, Ontario Jr Reign 2

The San Diego Sabers secured a 3-2 victory over the Ontario Jr Reign, highlighted by a strong second period and a solid defense in the third—the action started early in the first period, with both teams trading goals. The Jr Reign opened the scoring, but the Sabers responded shortly after with a goal of their own by #24 Sammy Albano with assists from #2 Owen Robertson and #11 Liam Krupcyznski, tying it up 1-1 heading into the first intermission. The second period proved decisive for the Sabers as they came back strong, scoring twice. Sabers forward #6 Knut Hornkvist gave the Sabers the lead with a power play goal, assisted by #4 Aidan Cosgrove and #94 Sam Bailey making it 2-1. Moments later, the Jr Reign scored, tying up the game. Seconds before the time ran out in the second period, #91 Briar Dickson added another with assists from #6 Knut Hornkvist and #4 Aidan Cosgrove to extend their lead 3-2. The Sabers locked things down in the third, holding off the Jr. Reign’s pressure and keeping the score intact, securing their victory with a 3-2 win. 

Photo by Fallon Johnson

October 20, Game 3: San Diego Sabers Closes Strong in 4-2 Victory Over Lake Tahoe Lakers

San Diego Sabers 4, Lake Tahoe Lakers 2

The San Diego Sabers earned a solid 4-2 victory over the Lake Tahoe Lakers, powered by a fast start and a strong finish in the third period. The first period saw action from both sides, with the Lakers scoring first. Minutes later, Sabers forward #91 Briar Dickson scores with assists from #11 Liam Krupcyznski and #6 Knut Hornkvist. Doubling their lead, forward #21 Caleb Murray added another goal to their score with an assist from #91 Briar Dickson, finishing the period off in a rush with the Sabers ahead 2-1. In the second period, the momentum shifted as the Lakers were the only scorers among a multitude of penalties from their team. Despite a few chances, the Sabers couldn’t regain the lead, and the game headed into the final period at 2-2. The third period changed the game and belonged to the Sabers, with #11 Liam Krupcyznski scoring a shorthanded, game-winning goal one minute into the period. Now in the lead, #24 Sammy Albano sealed the win with an empty net goal in the final minute, securing their 4-2 victory.

Ending the weekend with a record of 2-1, the Sabers will play the Lakers again this Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at Carlsbad Icetown.