by Romano Di Franco
The Nepean Raiders travelled to the Navan Memorial Centre to play out their second to last game against the Grads this season. Navan comes into this game having already clinched a playoff spot while the Raiders are looking to play out the last month of the season on a successful note. Brady McEwen who was solid in his previous game against the Pembroke Lumber Kings got the nod in goal while Hayden Gould got the start for the Grads.
The first period set the tone for an action-packed game, with both teams managing to find the back of the net. Nepean Raiders’ Nicolas Papineau opened the scoring on a power play just 2 minutes and 37 seconds into the game. It was his 13th goal of the year assisted by Curtiss Sturgeon and Josh Reid who turned 21 today. However, Navan Grads quickly responded, as Danny Markham netted one to even the score at 1-1. It was all Nepean in that opening period as they outshot the Grads 14-7.
The second period witnessed a scoring explosion from Navan Grads, who dominated the frame with three goals. Colin MacDougall, Nicholas Paone, and Colin Holmes all contributed to the offensive showcase. Nepean Raiders’ Dylan Pollock managed to squeeze in a short-handed goal with Nick Sinani in the box. Sturgeon assisted on the goal making it his second point of the game. The Grads had a quick response when Colin Holmes put the puck in the back of the net to make it 4-2.
The final period continued the trend of Navan Grads’ offensive prowess. Colin Holmes completed his hat-trick with two more goals, while Danny Markham added another to his tally. Nepean Raiders’ Kyle Slingerland found the back of the net. It was Slingerland’s fourth goal of the season and his first goal against his former team, but the Grads scored their last three goals of the game from Shaan Kingwell and Colin MacDougall. The game concluded with a commanding 9-3 victory for the Navan Grads.
Not only did the scoreboard reflect Navan Grads’ dominance, but their shot statistics also demonstrated their offensive pressure. They outshot Nepean Raiders 44 to 31 over the course of the game, showcasing their determination to control the pace and dictate play.
The penalty sheet was not left untouched, with both teams engaging in a physical battle throughout the game. The referees handed out a total of 56 penalty minutes, with players from both sides spending time in the sin bin for various infractions.
The Three Stars of the game were awarded to Navan Grads players, with Colin Holmes earning the first star for his impressive hat-trick performance. Danny Markham claimed the second star with two goals and three assists, while Nepean Raiders’ Kyle Slingerland secured the third star with a goal against his old team.
This game will undoubtedly be remembered for its offensive fireworks and the stellar performances from key players, solidifying Navan Grads’ position as a force to be reckoned with in the league.
