Ponoka Stampeders earned their first point of the season in a 5-4 overtime loss to Stettler on Sunday, in Heritage Junior Hockey action.

Assistant coach Andy Williams admits the loss was a tough pill to swallow, but said injuries played a big part.

“We had two and half lines again tonight. That’s been a real problem for us this year just with injuries. It’s been a battle we’ve had, but hopefully we can get some guys healthy here soon.”

With such a short bench, Williams said there are a lot of positives to take a way with the loss.

“We had guys buying in, doing things that maybe were a little outside of their comfort zone, but were still putting in their effort. I don't think you can go down the bench and pick a guy who didn’t try their hardest.”

Stampeders were out shot 35-23 and are now 0-5-1 to start the season.