by Romano Di Franco
The Nepean Raiders welcomed the Renfrew Wolves to the Nepean Sportsplex Steve Yzerman Arena for the regular season finale. The Raiders came into this game having swept the Brockville Braves in their regular season series. Meanwhile the Renfrew Wolves came into the game having won three straight games. Brady McEwen made his final career CCHL start for the Raiders whereas Lincoln Mellenthin got the start for the visiting Renfrew Wolves.
From the outset, both teams showcased their offensive prowess, with the Renfrew Wolves drawing first blood thanks to a goal from Kai Billey, assisted by Ethan Smith. However, the Nepean Raiders quickly answered back with goals from Oliver Band and Curtiss Sturgeon, setting the stage for a back-and-forth battle.
The second period saw the Renfrew Wolves regaining control of the game, as Ethan Smith netted a goal early on, followed by a penalty shot goal from Henry Wilson. Nepean’s best chance to tie the game at three goals a piece was when Dylan Pollock delivered a great pass to Peter Freel, but Lincoln Mellenthin reached back to rob Freel. Also, Josh Reid set up a good deflection shot with Nolan DeFazio in front of the net only for Mellenthin to make the save again.
Heading into the final period, the Renfrew Wolves continued to assert their dominance, with Brody Simpson and Dane Carter adding to their team’s lead with two more goals, securing a comfortable advantage. The Raiders had a fantastic chance to score a goal in the third period when Owen Coltor fired a great shot but somehow that stayed out.
Lincoln Mellenthin stood tall between the pipes for the Renfrew Wolves, turning aside 37 shots to earn the victory and claim the first star of the game. Ethan Smith also shone for the Renfrew Wolves, contributing a goal and an assist to earn the second star, while Curtiss Sturgeon of the Nepean Raiders rounded out the three stars with a goal of his own.
The game was not without its physicality, as both teams traded blows and incurred several penalties throughout the contest. However, in the end, it was the Renfrew Wolves who emerged triumphant, showcasing their resilience and skill in a hard-fought battle against a formidable opponent.
As the final buzzer sounded, signaling the end of the game, fans erupted into cheers and applause, celebrating a well-deserved victory for the Renfrew Wolves and also an outstanding game for the Nepean Raiders as well. On top of Brady McEwen playing his final career CCHL game. Oliver Band, Josh Reid and Kyle Slingerland each played their final regular season game.
Thank you fans for all of your support this year and we look forward to seeing you next season.
