SALLISAW– On Thursday afternoon, the Black Diamonds bested the Poteau Pirates 4-1 to take their winning streak to eight games.

Sallisaw took charge in the first half with two goals by Ethan Gardner. The first was unassisted at the 17:20 mark, and the second, assisted by Wes Rodriguez, a few minutes later at 13:54.

Gardener went on to complete the hat trick in the second half with his third goal of the game which was again assisted Rodriguez.

Gardener’s three goals gave him a season total of 21 that is only topped by Rodriguez with 22 on the year.

The combination of Gardener and Rodriguez accounted for 43 Black Diamond goals this season and each had 6 assists, which gives them 50 and 48 season points respectively (2 points for each goal and 1 point per assist).

With the win, the Black Diamonds record went to 11-1, eight in-a-row, and they will travel to face Hilldale, a formattable opponent with a record of 7-4-1 next Tuesday, and the Pirates return home to face Stillwell.