By Matt Stefano
The Soo Thunderbirds officially began post season action tonight at Rhodes after clinching first in the league for the second straight season as they took on the bottom place Blind River Beavers in Game 1 of the West division semi finals.
Anthony Miller led the way with two goals and two assists while Andrew Barbeau also had a four point night with four assists, as the T-Birds flew past the Beavers 11-0 to take a 1-0 series lead.
Guelph Storm 2014 fourth round pick Nick Sicoly had a pair of goals along with Owen Headrick and Matt Caruso, who scored twice including once on the power play and setting up another. Brett Jeffries and Jaren Bellini also had a three point effort with a goal and two assists each. Soo, Michigan product Eric Hillock had a goal and an assist while Colorado College recruit David Radke also had a two point night with a pair of assists along with Matt Mitchell. Matt Busby, Brandon Grandinetti, Devin Shell and Connor Dea each chipped in with one assist.
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Brian Kment made 16 saves becoming the first T-Bird goalie to record a shutout in an opening playoff game since Michael Doan did back on March 6th, 2011, in a 9-0 win over Manitoulin.
Braddock Baalerud was replaced by Zach Mills after the first period, giving up four goals on eighteen shots.
Game 2 goes at the Blind River Community Centre on Saturday, March 14th at 7:30.
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