A big third period was the difference as the Red Lake Miners defeated the visiting Kam River Fighting Walleye 4-2 Friday night at the Cochenour Arena.
The game was tied 2-2 heading into the final frame thanks to goals by Alim Darmenov and Parker Elliott.
Those were the first goals on the young season for both players.
Despite being outshot 12-5 in the third, the Miners would net the final two goals of the game.
Ryan Howe and Lucas Piekarczyk would find the back of the net.
Kam River outshot Red Lake in the game 39-24.
Cole Wheaton picked up the win for the Miners making 37 saves.
The rematch is Saturday night in Cochenour at 7:30.
In other SIJHL play, the Thunder Bay North Stars won their home opener, defeating the Wisconsin Lumberjacks 4-0.
