The Bombers will live to skate another day after beating Nipawin 2-1 in game 5 of the league semifinals.
Flin Flon was forced to change their gameplan heading into the game, with star defender Cory Thomas suspended for two games and a couple of players out with injuries. Notably, goalie Brenden Newton got his first start of the playoffs, coming after a decent relief appearance for starter Zac Robidoux in game 4.
Both teams came out at a feverish pace, with the game taking on a frantic, physical tone. The Bombers opened the scoring when Rylee Zimmer snuck one past Kristian Stead nine minutes into the first period. Flin Flon added to their lead minutes later, when Jason Lavallee stuffed the puck home.
The Bomber lead was under threat after Nipawin got on the board. After a questionable penalty to Bomber Eric Sinclair, Brett Harasymuk took advantage, making the game 2-1.
The third was hectic for both sides, with Flin Flon controlling the lion's share of play. Despite a late push by the Hawks, Newton and the Bombers stood their ground, earning the victory on home ice.
Newton made 29 saves for a well-earned win, while Stead took the L with 32 saves. Greyson Reitmeier added two assists for the maroon and white.
The Bomber win cuts their deficit in the series to one game, making the series 3-2 in favour of Nipawin. Game 6 will be played April 9 in Nipawin, with a 6:00 local start time. If Nipawin wins that game, they advance to the Canalta Cup finals against the Battlefords North Stars. If Flin Flon wins that game, they'll force a win-or-go-home game 7 at the Whitney Forum on Tuesday, Apr. 11.
