by Romano Di Franco
The Nepean Raiders welcomed the Pembroke Lumber Kings to the Nepean Sportsplex Steve Yzerman Arena for their second to last home game of the season. It was a very memorable game for the Raiders as they honored four of their graduating players Oliver Band, Kyler Slingerland, Josh Reid and Brady McEwen who will also be playing their second to last career CCHL home game. For the starting goalies, Brady McEwen got the start for the Raiders while Kevin Jones got the call for Pembroke.
First Period: Defensive Battle
The first period saw both teams locked in a defensive struggle, with neither side managing to break the deadlock. Despite the lack of scoring, the intensity on the ice was palpable, setting the stage for an exciting matchup. But it was the Raiders who out-shot the Lumber Kings 13-11 in that opening period.
Second Period: Cardiff Opens the Scoring
The game’s first breakthrough came in the second period, with Liam Cardiff of the Pembroke Lumber Kings finding the back of the net at the 3:02 mark. Assisted by Cam Hicklin and Easton Penna, Cardiff’s goal injected life into the game, giving Pembroke a crucial lead.
Third Period: Raiders Respond
The Nepean Raiders fought back in the third period, turning the game on its head with two quick goals. Kyle Slingerland and Joshua Reid found the back of the net for the Raiders, putting them in the driver’s seat. However, the Pembroke Lumber Kings responded with determination, as Ryan Parent’s power-play goal at 11:25 leveled the score at 2-2.
Overtime Drama: No Breakthrough
The first overtime period saw no additional scoring, setting the stage for a tension-filled shootout to determine the winner.
Shootout Heroics: Pembroke Triumphs 3-2
The shootout proved to be the deciding factor, with Pembroke Lumber Kings’ skaters delivering a stellar performance. Jayson Alegria, Cam Hicklin, and Sutton Murray all found the net for Pembroke, securing a 3-2 shootout victory. On the other side, Nepean Raiders managed two goals, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Pembroke’s three. Nepean’s best chance in the shootout was when Oliver Band had Kevin Jones beat, but all he found was iron.
Three Stars of the Game
- Sutton Murray (Pembroke Lumber Kings): Despite not registering a goal or an assist in regulation, Murray shone in the shootout, securing the victory for Pembroke.
- Kyle Slingerland (Nepean Raiders): Slingerland’s goal in the third period showcased his offensive prowess, contributing to the Raiders’ comeback effort.
- Liam Cardiff (Pembroke Lumber Kings): Cardiff’s goal and assist played a crucial role in Pembroke’s offensive efforts, earning him the third star of the game.
The Pembroke Lumber Kings’ victory solidifies their position in the league standings, while the Nepean Raiders will be looking to bounce back in their next matchup. This thrilling encounter will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of the 2024 season, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability that makes hockey a beloved sport.
Nepean’s next game will be on Friday March 8th when they travel to the Rockland CIHA Arena 1 to begin a season long five game road trip before returning home for their final home game of the season on St. Patrick’s Day.
