The Killarney Shamrocks are Manitoba Cup champions for the second year in a row.

Ryan Howatt had two goals and an assist and Reid Gow had a goal and four helpers as the Tiger Hills Hockey League champions defeated the Norway House North Stars 9-3 in the final of the Provincial Senior “A” Hockey Championship Sunday at MTS Iceplex in Winnipeg.

“It feels pretty good,” said Shamrocks captain Jamie Schultz. “It was a really special year. I can't even express what it feels like to go 34-1.”

Killarney enjoyed 3-0 and 5-2 leads at the period breaks.

“The boys came to play today,” said defenseman Colton Magwood. “We've had great commitment all year. It's good to see all these local boys and the smile on our faces. It's just awesome. Words can't explain it.”

The Shamrocks put the championship game away early in the third period thanks to goals from Isaac Friesen, Howatt and Brayden Cuthbert before the three minute mark.

In such a short period of time Killarney's lead went from 5-2 to 8-2.

“The start of the third was key,” said Shamrocks coach Shayne Skeoch. “We got a few quick goals and I that put the nail in the coffin. Credit to the North Stars though, they never did give up – up until then I thought. They're a good team. We played them earlier in the tournament and I thought we could see these guys again. It's good to see other teams. It's a great tournament to be in and we're just proud to be part of it.”

Aubrey Chapman, Lane Ganske, Jesse Ramsden and Andrew Lochhead also scored for Killarney.

Cody Ballard, Skylar Tait-Reaume and Cody Einarson replied for the North West Senior Hockey League champion North Stars.

The Shamrocks are the first team to win the Manitoba Cup twice.

The three other champions are the Altona Maroons (2013), the Deloraine Royals (2014) and the Morden Redskins (2015).