by Romano Di Franco
Sunday, December 17, 2023
The Nepean Raiders welcomed the Smiths Falls Bears for Game 3 of their season long seven game home-stand. The Bears came into this game looking to reclaim second place in the CCHL Standings. For the starting goalies, John Gedraitis got the start for the Raiders making his first appearance in nearly 20 days. On the other end of the rink, Dax Easter made his seventh start since Smiths Falls acquired him in a trade with the Brockville Braves.
First Period Fireworks
The opening period set the tone for the intense battle between the two teams. Nepean Raiders’ forward Owen Hardy wasted no time, putting his team on the scoreboard just 1 minute and 53 seconds into the game. However, the Bears quickly responded, with Matthew Martin-Gaudreault leveling the score at 4:50. Tyson Parker extended the Bears’ lead with a goal at 12:53, ending the first period with a 2-1 advantage for Smiths Falls. The Bears outshot the Raiders 12-9 in that opening period.
Back-and-Forth in the Second Period
The second period was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams showcasing their offensive skills. Nepean’s Peter Freel and Smiths Falls’ Matthew Martin-Gaudreault each found the back of the net, keeping the score close. However, the Bears managed to maintain a slim lead, heading into the final period with a 4-3 advantage. Once again it was Smiths Falls who out shot the Raiders 12-9 despite the close margin.
Bears Secure the Win
The final period was a testament to the Bears’ determination. Trevor Faucher scored early, extending the Bears’ lead to 5-3. Nepean’s Joshua Reid managed to pull one back on the power play at 5:14, but the Bears continued to press. Finnegan Kilmurray sealed the victory for Smiths Falls with a goal at 9:23, securing the 6-4 win.
Standout Performances
Several players stood out in this action-packed game. Matthew Martin-Gaudreault of the Bears had a notable performance, contributing significantly with two goals. Trevor Faucher and Finnegan Kilmurray also played crucial roles, ensuring the Bears’ success.
Penalty Drama
Penalties added an extra layer of intensity to the game. Nepean Raiders faced challenges with two penalties in the first period, and the Bears capitalized on their power play opportunities. Jackson Heron of the Bears found himself in the penalty box in the third period, but Smiths Falls successfully killed the penalty, maintaining their lead. This would be a routine affair with only three minor penalties being called in the overall game.
Three Stars of the Game
The three stars of the game were undoubtedly earned by players who left it all on the ice. The first star went to Trevor Faucher, whose two goals played a pivotal role in the Bears’ triumph. Matthew Martin-Gaudreault earned the second star for his offensive contributions, while Finnegan Kilmurray secured the third star with his decisive goal.
In summary, the Smiths Falls Bears showcased their skill and determination in a hard-fought victory over the Nepean Raiders. This game will undoubtedly be remembered as a thrilling clash between two talented teams, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next encounter on the ice.
Nepean’s next game will be on Wednesday December 20th when the Pembroke Lumber Kings come to town for Game 4 on their current homestand. This will be the Raiders last game of the 2023 calendar year.
