SASKATOON -- Logan McVeigh recorded two goals to lead the University of Saskatchewan Huskies to a 4-1 win over the visiting UBC Thunderbirds to open the Canada West men's hockey season Friday night in Saskatoon's Rutherford Rink.

The second-year forward from Kenaston, Sask., tallied twice in the third period just four minutes apart at 2:03 and 6:40.

It was the first Canada West regular season game for both squads. Saskatchewan is the reigning conference champions.

"It's not neccesarily about winning or losing in October," said UBC Head Coach Sven Butenschon post-game. "It's about taking your medicine in these tough places to play and getting better throughout the season."

Defenceman Jordan Fransoo got the Huskies on the board at 15:59 in the second period when a Matt Hewitt rebound landed on his stick.

Saskatchewan jumped out to a two-goal lead just 2:03 into the final frame, when McVeigh deflected the puck into the net on a Connor Cox shot from the corner. He gave the Huskies a 3-0 lead on the power play at 6:40 in the same frame.

UBC's Luke Lockhart cut the Huskies' lead in half at 15:03 but the bid for the comeback was too late.

Michael Sofillas added the empty net Saskatchewan goal at 18:23.

Hewitt finished the game with 33 saves for the T-Birds, while reigning CIS Goaltender of the Year Jordon Cooke stopped 18 shots. The Huskies outshot UBC 37-19 in the game.

"Hewitt was great tonight," said Butenschon. "He kept us in the game early when we were in serious penalty trouble."



The two teams will meet again Saturday night in Rutherford Rink. Puck drop is slated for 6 p.m. PT