by Romano Di Franco
The Nepean Raiders welcomed the Carleton Place Canadians to the Nepean Sportsplex at Steve Yzerman Arena for the second game of a home and home series. Nepean dropped the first game in Carleton Place but they bounced back winning by a final score of 5-2. Brady MacEwen got the start for the Raiders having taken the week off following their game against the Ottawa Junior Senators. Jackson Pundyk answered in goal for Carleton Place.
First Period Highlights
The opening period saw the Carleton Place Canadians taking an early lead at 13:06, courtesy of William Bouwer’s impressive goal. Assisted by Loic Prudhomme and Will Soloway, Bouwer’s goal set the tone for what promised to be an exciting game. Nepean’s best chance in that first period came off a breakaway from Riley Streska but Pundyk made a big pad save off him.
Second Period Turns the Tide
The Nepean Raiders responded emphatically in the second period, with William Dickson finding the back of the net at 6:54. Carleton Place Canadians quickly answered with a goal from Bill Gourgon at 10:58, showcasing the back-and-forth nature of the contest.
However, the Nepean Raiders surged ahead with two more goals in the second period, courtesy of Joshua Reid and Thomas Dickey at 15:19 and 16:23, respectively. The period ended with Nepean holding a 3-2 lead. Dickey’s goal was not only the game winning goal in that game, it was even his first goal against the Carleton Place Canadians. He was also one of the guys that was traded to Nepean in exchange for Lleyton Mclean.
Nepean Raiders Secure the Win
The third period proved decisive for the Nepean Raiders, who extended their lead with goals from Nick Houben at 13:53 and Brandon Reinisch at 18:25 (empty net). The final score stood at 5-2 in favor of the Raiders.
Notable Performances and Penalties
Thomas Dickey of the Nepean Raiders was named the first star of the game, contributing with a goal and an assist. Brady McEwan earned the second star for his outstanding performance in goal, making 36 saves out of 38 shots. Bill Gourgon of the Carleton Place Canadians received the third star for his goal during the game.
The penalty box saw action throughout the game, with both teams engaging in physical play. Notable penalties included high sticking, tripping, and roughing after the whistle.
Conclusion
The Sunday clash between the Carleton Place Canadians and the Nepean Raiders was a spectacle of skill, determination, and intense hockey action. With the Nepean Raiders securing a 5-2 victory, fans were treated to a display of outstanding plays and standout performances from both sides. The game will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of the season for both teams and their supporters.
Next Game
The Nepean Raiders will be back home on Wednesday November 22nd when the Cornwall Colts come to town for a 7:30PM Puck Drop.
