The Swift Current Broncos’ first playoff foray into overtime was a short one as Brett Howden scored only 2:49 into the extra frame to give the Moose Jaw Warriors a 4-3 win and a 2-1 lead in the Western Hockey League Eastern Conference best-of-seven semi-final.
Howden had a puck fall at his feet in the crease and lifted it over an outstretched Stuart Skinner for his fifth goal of the post-season early in overtime.
The Broncos opened the scoring when Glenn Gawdin notched his seventh goal of the post-season 9:21 into the first period while on the power play. Brayden Burke replied 2:50 later on a two-on-one for the Warriors.
The Warriors took the lead 5:24 into the second period when Jayden Halbgewachs scored on the power play. The Broncos responded with a power play goal of their own 4:19 later when Matteo Gennaro knocked home a Beck Malentsyn centering feed. They regained the lead with 7:42 left in the frame when Colby Sissons fed Artyom Minulin for a nifty tip in from the slot.
Kale Clague tied the game again 5:11 into the third period with a screened shot from the point to force overtime.
Stuart Skinner took the loss with 27 saves. Brody Willms earned the win with 20 saves on 23 shots.
Game four will be Wednesday at 7:05 p.m. in Swift Current.
