As the preseason winds down, it feels only fitting that the Yorkton Terriers and Melville Millionaires close things out against one another. The Highway 10 rivals were reacquainted just a night ago in Melville, where the Terriers pulled off a thrilling 6-5 regulation victory thanks to two goals scored just ten seconds apart late in the third period. The win marked Yorkton’s third of the preseason, giving them points in all four games played so far.
Friday’s matchup was a game within a game. The Terriers jumped out to a commanding 4-1 lead, only to see it slip away as the Millionaires stormed back with four unanswered goals. But just as they showed throughout last season under the guidance of Head Coach Emery Olauson, this Terrier team doesn’t quit. They battled back and found a way to win—a gritty performance against a divisional rival that once again highlighted the group’s work ethic, resilience, and determination to finish what they start.
Yorkton leaned on its veterans in the win. Returning forwards Quinn Tavender and Jye Zawatsky each netted a pair of goals, while Vinay Junek chipped in with one of his own. On the back end, young defenceman Mikale Budz not only scored but also set up the game-winner, continuing to show growth and confidence as the preseason progresses.
Between the pipes, the Terriers once again turned to goaltender Alexandro Montoya for a second straight start. The netminder looked increasingly comfortable, standing tall against a heavy barrage of shots. Montoya finished with 48 saves on 53 attempts, a strong outing that bodes well heading into the regular season.
The rivalry now shifts back to Yorkton for the final tune-up before the real games begin. Puck drop is set for 7:00 PM tonight at Westland Arena, as the Terriers look to close out their preseason on a high note in front of the home crowd.
