by Romano Di Franco
The Nepean Raiders welcomed the Smiths Falls Bears to the Nepean Sportsplex Steve Yzerman Arena for their second to last game of the season. Nepean was coming off a solid effort against the Pembroke Lumber Kings while the Bears were looking to make their winning streak to six in a row. John Gedraitis who was fantastic in his last start against the Rockland Nationals was in goal for the Raiders while Dawson Labre who is having an amazing season for the Bears got the call for Smiths Falls.
First Period Highlights:
The opening period set the tone for the game, with both teams displaying strong defensive play. The Smiths Falls Bears claimed the first significant moment as Hunter O’Brien netted a goal at the 19:04 mark, assisted by Trevor Faucher and Lucas Culhane.
Nepean Raiders faced penalty trouble early on, with Jonah Henderson receiving a two-minute penalty for hooking, and Owen Colter serving two minutes for holding. They went on to kill both penalties in that period. Nepean’s best chance to score in that first period was when Curtiss Sturgeon delivered a long lead pass to Thomas Dickey, but Labre closed the door.
Second Period Action:
The second period witnessed increased intensity as both teams aimed for control. Oliver Band of Nepean Raiders managed to capitalize on a power play tying the game at one a piece. Mario Scalise and Curtiss Sturgeon got the assists. However, Smiths Falls responded with authority, as Shaymus Stevenson scored twice on power plays, showcasing the Bears’ special teams prowess.
The period featured penalties on both sides, with players from Smiths Falls and Nepean spending time in the penalty box. Despite Nepean’s best efforts, Smiths Falls held onto their lead, entering the third period with a 3-1 advantage.
Third Period Determination:
As the final period unfolded, Nepean Raiders attempted a comeback, but the Smiths Falls Bears stood strong. The Bears’ Lucas Culhane sealed the victory with a power-play goal at the 12:01 mark, assisted by Kyle James and Trevor Faucher.
Penalties continued in the third, with both teams engaging in physical play. Smiths Falls effectively navigated through the penalties, showcasing their discipline and defensive prowess.
Three Stars of the Game:
- Shaymus Stevenson (#24) – Smiths Falls Bears:
- Goals: 2
- Assists: 0
- Lucas Culhane (#18) – Smiths Falls Bears:
- Goals: 1
- Assists: 1
- Riley Streska (#15) – Nepean Raiders:
- Despite the loss, Streska’s solid performance earned him the third star.
The Smiths Falls Bears displayed a well-rounded performance, capitalizing on power-play opportunities and demonstrating a strong defensive presence. The Nepean Raiders, despite putting up a fight, couldn’t break through the Bears’ resilience. The victory positions the Smiths Falls Bears as a formidable force in the league, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their future matchups.
Nepean’s next game will be held on Sunday March 3rd when the Raiders visit the Navan Grads at the Navan Memorial Centre for a 3:30 PM puck drop.
