Zach Zahara makes one of his 29 saves during last nights 5-2 win over the Regina Pats. (Medicine Hat Tigers)

By Jesse Gill

Medicine Hat Tigers match win total from last season, goalie Zahara shines against Regina Pats

Feb 7, 2024 | 4:44 PM

The Medicine Hat Tigers got back in the win column Tuesday night at home with a 5-2 win over the Regina Pats — in part thanks to a strong performance from goaltender Zach Zahara.

With 30 wins on the season, the Tigers have matched their win total from last season with 18 games still to go before playoffs.

A four point night from Gavin McKenna (1 goal, 3 assists) and three point games out of Oasiz Weisblatt (2 goals, 1 assist) and Andrew Basha (2 goals, 1 assist) set the pace offensively for the Tigers.

Goalie Zahara picked up first star after stopping 29 shots. He even picked up his first WHL assist, helping the Tigers secure the win.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

4h ago

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

7h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

'Compassionate Friends' offer peer support for bereaved in Medicine Hat

22h ago

Zahara had a rougher start the last time he played the Pats and was ready for redemption this game.

“It was obviously just a confidence boost last night, like to prove to them that I can be good verse that team,” Zahara said Wednesday.

“It was obviously a huge win to get last night so yeah it was awesome to get,” he added.

“Like this time of year, you gotta play your best like coming into the playoffs, and playoffs, obviously you got to be your best in playoffs as well, so just carry that mojo moving forward.”

Zahara has had a solid season so far sitting in seventh in the league for save percentage and eight for goals against average, but had given up a few more goals than he has been used to the last few games.

“Just trying to make the most of it and play your game and hopefully things work out for the best,” Zahara said.

“I felt pretty good last night. Hopefully carry it to this weekend.”

Associate Coach Joe Frazer said the Tigers were fortunate to get the win last night crediting the play of Zahara.

“He was outstanding, probably our best player last night,” Frazer said.

“I think we gave up four breakaways and one or two, two on oh’s, so when you do that you better have some good goaltending,” he added.

“He bailed us out for sure.”

Frazer also mentioned the team will have to play better if they are going to compete for a championship and they put in some work today at practice.

“You got to find a way to win this time of year,” Frazer said.

“We cleared some things up this morning on video. The guys have been great all year at seeing something and you know, making the adjustments. So, I expect us to be way more sharp, with our game this weekend.”

The Tigers are back in action this weekend against a pair of conference rivals, taking on the Hitmen in Calgary on Friday and hosting the Red Deer Rebels on Saturday night.