The Calgary Hitmen got their farewell Saddledome season off to a winning start Friday, topping the Red Deer Rebels 3-2 in a shootout. Russian newcomer Artem Katsuro scored the only goal in the shootout to give Calgary the opening-night win. Early on, Calgary came strong, getting goals from Charlie Kresl -- his first WHL goal-- and Brennan Brown, who scored his first Hitmen goal. Following a scoreless second period, the Rebels battled back in the final frame, getting one from Cameron Kuzma and then another from Kohen Lodge on a power play to force extra time. A scoreless extra frame set the scene for Katsuro’s shootout winner. Eric Tu stopped 35 shots and all three Red Deer tries in the shootout. Next up for Calgary is a Sunday tilt with the Oil Kings in Edmonton. Puck drop is scheduled for 4 p.m. and it’s free to stream on the YouTube Western Hockey League channel.
