Canucks defeat Wild as Biega scores goal in first NHL game

It was his first NHL game, his first NHL goal – and he made it count.

Alex Biega scored the game-winning goal at 11:54 of the third period and the Vancouver Canucks held on for a 3-2 win over the Minnesota Wild, the first regulation loss for Minnesota in 11 games.

WATCH: Biega’s goal

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8MWfuqiXqKA

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

The Canucks’ brought up Biega, who was drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in 2006, due to an injury to Chris Tanev.

Minnesota led after the first period thanks to a goal by Nino Niederreiter at 8:55 of the first period, but the Canucks tied it just 42 seconds into the second on a goal by Henrik Sedin.

WATCH: Sedin’s goal to tie the game

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Et7F3yOik8

Bo Horvat gave the Canucks the lead at 1:33 of the third period, before Biega extended the lead 10 minutes later.

The Wild made it close, with Niederreiter scoring again at 13:35, but Eddie Lack made several of his 19 saves in the final two minutes to preserve the win.

The win moves Vancouver to 32-21-3 on the season, moving them ahead of the San Jose Sharks to third in the Pacific Division. The Wild are now 28-21-7, fifth in the Central.