By Jordan Matthews

COQUITLAM — The Surrey Cyclones triumphed 3-0 over the Coquitlam Cougars in a game that showcased impeccable defense and clutch scoring. With a relentless offensive push backed by stellar goaltending, Surrey controlled the pace from the opening whistle. The defining moment was Dusan Kovač’s electric breakaway late in the game that iced the victory for the visitors and left the home fans stunned.

The game started with high intensity and tight defense. Early shots were evenly matched, but Coquitlam’s Bruno Costa faced a barrage, totaling 40 shots on goal. Despite his valiant 24 saves, the Cougars couldn’t convert, falling victim to Surrey’s stingy defense and fast counterattacks.

Surrey’s goaltender Aisha Bello was flawless between the pipes, stopping all 22 shots she faced for a shutout victory. The Cyclones opened the scoring midway through the first period when Isabella Rossi fired a snap shot from a pass by Jairo Alvarez, slipping the puck past Costa to energize the visitors.

The Cougars tried to rally, with top shooters Mai Nguyen and Chloe Robertson peppering the net, but Bello remained impenetrable.

In the second period, Rossi struck again with a precise wrist shot, assisted once more by Alvarez, doubling Surrey’s lead and further silencing the home crowd.

Late in the third, with the Cougars pressing aggressively in search of goals, Kovač capitalized on a breakaway created by Alvarez’s vision and speed, blasting the puck past Costa and sealing the win.

Coach Darren Mills praised the team’s effort saying, “Our defensive structure was exceptional tonight, and the forwards executed their chances brilliantly. Kovač’s breakaway goal was just the cherry on top.”

Kovač reflected, “It was all about staying focused and trusting my teammates. We played as a cohesive unit and it showed on the scoreboard.”

Key Notes:

• Aisha Bello’s shutout included 22 saves, highlighting her dominance in net.
• Isabella Rossi tallied two goals and played a pivotal role in offense with 8 shots on goal.
• Dusan Kovač contributed a goal and relentless pressure with 10 shots and the decisive breakaway score.
• Coquitlam Cougars were held without a goal despite launching 40 shots, illustrating the Cyclones’ formidable defense.
• Turnover battle slightly favored Surrey with 31 turnovers to Coquitlam’s 33, underlining high-pressure defense.

The victory bolsters Surrey’s confidence as they continue their campaign, while Coquitlam is left to regroup after a tough night on home ice.