Townsman Staff

The Kootenay Ice earned a weekend split in opening their first-round WHL playoff series with the Calgary Hitmen at the Scotiabank Saddledome.

After surprising the Hitmen with a 3-2 victory in Game 1 Friday night, the Ice nearly knocked off the hosts in Game 2 Sunday afternoon, before falling victim to Adam Tambellini, who scored the game-winning goal in an overtime victory for the Hitmen.

Having taken home-ice advantage away from the Central Division-champion Hitmen, the Ice will look to move ahead in the best-of-seven first-round series when Game 3 goes at Western Financial Place Tuesday night at 7 p.m.

During the game, the Ice will recognize the accomplishments of the Cranbrook Pee Wee Tier 2 Eagles (provincial champions) and Kimberley Dynamiters (Kootenay International Junior B Hockey League champions).

Video highlights: Game 1 – Kootenay Ice 4 at Calgary Hitmen 3 (March 27):

Video highlights: Game 2 – Kootenay Ice 2 at Calgary Hitmen 3 (OT) (March 29):