Walleye Strike First in Round 4

The Toledo Walleye set the tone in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals, taking a 3-1 win over the Trois-Rivières Lions in what quickly turned into one of the most physical games of the postseason. With a trip to the Kelly Cup Finals on the line, both teams brought intensity—but it was Toledo who came out with the early edge in Round 4.

After a scoreless first period that saw bodies flying and a late penalty assessed to Trois-Rivières, things ramped up in the second. The Lions struck first with a goal from Tyler Hylland just 1:36 into the frame, but the Walleye wasted no time responding. Trenton Bliss evened things up at 5:39, and Sam Craggs added another at 11:14 to swing momentum in Toledo’s favor.

The third period remained chippy, and both benches stayed engaged from start to finish. With just under two minutes left, Carson Bantle delivered the dagger—capitalizing on a setup from Mitchell Lewandowski and Colin Swoyer to make it 3-1.

What followed in the final minute was a wave of penalties as emotions boiled over. Multiple players on both sides were handed roughing minors and misconducts for continuing altercations, a clear sign that this series is far from friendly.

Toledo’s composure and depth ultimately made the difference in Game 1, giving them the early lead in the best-of-seven series. Game 2 is set to bring even more edge as the Walleye look to build on a strong start—and the Lions aim to answer back.