Surrey Cyclones Overpower Burnaby Blizzards 5-2 with Early Snap Shot Surge
Cyclones’ lethal offense and key saves lift them past Blizzards in high-shot, high-pressure game
By Jamie Ellis
BURNABY — The Surrey Cyclones shocked the Burnaby Blizzards on their home ice with a commanding 5-2 victory that hinged on a blistering start and an efficient offense against relentless pressure. The Cyclones’ early goals and sharp execution turned the tide in a game where Burnaby dominated the shot count but struggled to convert, making every goal from Surrey pivotal.
The game ignited quickly when Jairo Alvarez scored a snap shot just moments after the opening faceoff, setting the tone for Surrey. Dusan Kovač followed suit with another snap shot, assisted by Kei Tanaka, doubling the team’s lead. Alvarez would add another with a wrist shot, providing momentum that Burnaby struggled to stem despite taking 40 shots over the course of the night.
Burnaby’s Jean-Luc Moreau cut into the deficit with a powerful slap shot goal, igniting some hope, only for Surrey to respond immediately with another Kovač snap shot and yet another goal from Alvarez, also a wrist shot, highlighting the Cyclones’ sharp shooting and teamwork.
Despite more efforts from Burnaby, including a late wrist shot goal by Nikolai Kuznetsov assisted by Lars Bjornstad, Surrey’s goalie Aisha Bello stood tall in net with 26 saves and a stellar save percentage, while Burnaby’s Faris Al-Mansoori made 18 saves but was ultimately outmatched by Surrey’s efficiency.
Kovač was the standout performer, contributing two goals and two assists, while Alvarez’s relentless attack earned him two goals on eight shots. “We knew we had to be sharp early and capitalize on our chances,” said Kovač. “Our team played with great energy and focus tonight.”
Burnaby coach reflected, “We created plenty of chances but just couldn’t finish. Credit to Surrey for their clinical play. We’ll go back to the drawing board and come back stronger.”
Key Notes:
- Surrey Cyclones shot efficiency: 21.7% (5 goals on 33 shots)
- Burnaby Blizzards shot efficiency: 7.1% (2 goals on 40 shots)
- Aisha Bello (Surrey) recorded 26 saves with a 92.9% save rate
- Faris Al-Mansoori (Burnaby) made 18 saves with a 78.3% save rate
- Dusan Kovač tallied 4 points (2G, 2A), leading the Cyclones’ offense