Dawson Bacon had a goal and two assist to spark the Battlefords AAA Stars to a 4-1 exhibition road win over the Beardy's Blackhawks.
The Stars struck first with 9:00 to play in the first period. Forward Kaelen Holt beat Blackhawks goaltender Tristen Lariviere with assists from Keegan McBride and Bacon.
In the second period, Bacon scored 5:33 into the frame to put the Stars up 2-0. Keifer Hintz and Tyson Meyers assisted on the goal.
With 6:41 to play in the period, the Blackhawks cut the lead to one when Michael Hyde beat backup goalie Talen King to make it a 2-1 game.
Derek Frater restored the Stars' two-goal lead with 3:13 to play in the middle frame. The power-play goal was assisted by Bacon and Kenzie Arnold.
The Stars added an insurance marker late in the third period. Forward Kyle Salaway scored with 1:32 left in the game, beating Blackhawks backup Kody Kushniruk. Tyler Baier and Hintz picked up assists on the fourth goal.
Stars starting goaltender Shaun Fleming stopped all 16 shots faced in just under 30 minutes of game time to register the win. King made 17 of 18 saves in relief for Battlefords.
The Blackhawks also split time between their two goalies. Lariviere allowed two goals on 13 shots, while Kushniruk made 22 of 24 saves.
The Stars continue their exhibition schedule Saturday in Saskatoon against the Contacts in Schroh Arena. Game time is 7:45 p.m. Battlefords makes their home exhibition debut Wednesday night at the Civic Centre against the Saskatoon Blazers. Puck drop is 7:30 p.m.
The SMAAAHL regular season schedule for the Stars begins Sept. 26 at the Civic Centre against the Regina Pat Canadians. The game starts at 7:30 p.m.
