by Romano Di Franco
The Nepean Raiders welcomed the Ottawa Junior Senators to the Nepean Sportsplex Steve Yzerman Arena for the fifth game in their provincial rivalry. This was the last game for these two teams this season. Brady McEwen got the start for the Raiders in this Sunday afternoon game while Connor Shibley was in goal on his 21st birthday.
Game Overview
Final Score: Ottawa Junior Senators 3, Nepean Raiders 2 (SO)
Shots on Goal: OJS 33, NEP 31
Scoring Highlights
1st Period
The opening period saw the Ottawa Junior Senators take the lead at 4:16, with Felix Bellfoy netting a goal assisted by Lucas Staresinic. The period ended with OJS ahead 1-0.
2nd Period
OJS extended their lead in the second period with a power-play goal at 1:51 by Conrad Moline, assisted by Liam Lucas and Anthony Menard. Nepean Raiders responded with a goal at 18:10 by Nicolas Papineau, closing the gap to 2-1.
3rd Period
The Nepean Raiders fought back, tying the game at 2-2 with a goal from Joshua Reid at 13:32 in the third period. This was his 11th goal this season.
Overtime
Despite a fiercely contested overtime period, neither team managed to score, setting the stage for a nail-biting shootout.
Shootout Drama
In the shootout, Ottawa Junior Senators emerged victorious with a final score of 1-0. Liam Lucas was the lone scorer in the shootout, securing the win for OJS.
Notable Penalties
The game was not without its share of penalties, contributing to the overall intensity. Notable infractions included boarding, interference, cross-checking, and roughing, showcasing the physicality and competitiveness of both teams.
Three Stars of the Game
- Liam Lucas (Ottawa Junior Senators) – 1st Star
- Contributed with 1 assist and scored the decisive shootout goal.
- Joshua Reid (Nepean Raiders) – 2nd Star
- Tallied 1 goal and 1 assist during regulation play.
- Connor Shibley (Ottawa Junior Senators) – 3rd Star
- Impressive goaltending performance with 31 saves and a solid presence throughout the game.
Closing Thoughts
The clash between the Ottawa Junior Senators and Nepean Raiders showcased the resilience and skill of both teams. The game’s intensity, combined with the drama of a shootout, made for an unforgettable Sunday night showdown that will be remembered by fans on both sides. As the season progresses, these teams are sure to continue providing hockey enthusiasts with thrilling moments on the ice.
The Nepean Raiders next game will be held on Friday January 26th when they visit the Kemptville 73s at the North Greenville Municipal Centre before returning home to conclude the month against the 73s. So this is a home and home stand.
