Butler and Kings defeat Thunder, advance to semi-final

Edmonton, AB - Led by a pair of goals from all-star defenceman Tanner Butler, the Kings took an early lead in game two of the best of three quarter-final against the host Concordia University Thunder, and never relented, downing the home team 6-1 to advance to the semi-final.

The Red Deer College Kings were ready at the drop of the puck and at 3:05 Sylvan Lake's Scott Ferguson opened the scoring. Then just over half way through the period, Ryley Smith connected shorthanded to give the Kings a two goal cushion.

In the middle frame, the RDC Kings kept their foot on the gas, lighting the lamp four consecutive times. Dylan Thudium scored in between a pair of goals from Tanner Butler, and Scott Ferguson added his second marker of the game. With 5:29 remaining in the second, Curtis Peck halted Troy Trombley's consecutive shutout bid.

Austin Hunter (14) had one assist Pic - Tony Hansen

Neither team could find the back of the net in the third period and the Kings wrapped up a 6-1 road victory, advancing to the semi-final.

Tanner Butler and Curtis Peck were recognized as the top performers on their given teams. 

Kings goaltender Troy Trombley had another solid outing in net, turning aside 31 out of 32 shots (0.969). The Kings outscored the Thunder 11-1 over two games.

Troy Trombley (36) Pic - Tony Hansen

The Red Deer College Kings will face the MacEwan University Griffins in the semi-final. Both teams finished with an identical (19-7-1-1) regular season record.

The University of Alberta Augustana Vikings and SAIT Trojans are tied 1-1 in their series and will play the deciding game on Sunday evening. The winner will face the NAIT Ooks in the other semi-final.