The Calgary Wranglers experienced a frustrating finish on the road Saturday, letting a third-period lead evaporate before ultimately falling 4-3 in a shootout to the Abbotsford Canucks.
A Tight Contest in British Columbia
The American Hockey League matchup, played on January 11, 2026, at the Abbotsford Centre, was a back-and-forth affair typical of the Pacific Division rivalry. Both teams traded chances throughout regulation, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion. The game was covered by journalist Stephen Hunt.
Late Collapse Leads to Overtime
Holding a narrow lead as the clock wound down in the final frame, the Wranglers were unable to close out the victory. The Abbotsford Canucks found a way to net the equalizer, forcing the game into overtime. The five-minute three-on-three extra session solved nothing, pushing the contest to a decisive shootout.
In the skill competition, the Canucks' shooters proved more effective, securing the extra point and handing Calgary a tough loss. The final score was recorded as a 4-3 shootout victory for Abbotsford.
Pacific Division Implications
While a single point was earned for reaching overtime, the loss represents a missed opportunity for the Wranglers in the tightly contested AHL standings. Games against direct division rivals like Abbotsford are crucial for playoff positioning. The team will need to analyze their late-game execution as they look to rebound in their next outing.
The result adds another chapter to the growing rivalry between the two clubs, promising more intense matchups when they meet again later in the season.
