The Eagles' race to the top was systematically dismantled by Bentley Dec. 19 at their barn 6-0.
The Generals were quicker, played their positions better and shot the puck harder, as Innisfail struggled to break through their offence, not to mention their defence.
“They're a skilled team,” said Eagles forward Justin Daigle. “They move the puck really well. They tend to get lost in the offensive zone. They're tough to keep track of.”
Yet the Eagles managed to halt the advance of the Generals for most of the first period, although much of the play was in their own end.
With just over a minute left they finally found a chink in Innisfail's armour, as Travis Dunstall scored with backup from Scott Doucet and Matt Kinch.
The Eagles did beat Bentley in penalties, 7-4.
“Unfortunately penalties kind of got in our way there and they scored a late one in the first and carried that into the second period,” Daigle said. “We were kind of behind the eight ball from then on.”
Bentley goalie Jase Weslosky only had to stop 27 shots all game for the shutout, and many were feeble attempts, while the Generals blasted 44 on net.
The Generals bombed two goals past goalie Jasen Kipling within 14 seconds in the second period before adding another before the clock ran out.
The Eagles were completely drained by the third period, surrendering two more goals.
“We just weren't good enough tonight,” said Eagles centre Corey Tibble. “It's as simple as that.”
