by Romano Di Franco
Trenton, ON – August 23, 2024 – The Trenton Golden Hawks secured a hard-fought 4-2 victory over the Nepean Raiders on Friday night at Duncan Memorial Gardens, capping off an intense battle that saw the game decided in the third period. With both teams locked at 1-1 heading into the final frame, Trenton’s surge in the last 20 minutes proved to be the difference-maker.
The Golden Hawks struck first midway through the opening period when Joey Brehmer found the back of the net at 11:58, thanks to assists from Matthew Hicks and Dillon Stiles. However, Nepean responded quickly, with Peter Freel equalizing at 16:12, set up by Riley Streska. Both teams displayed solid defensive play, with Nepean narrowly outshooting Trenton 8-7 in the period.
The second period was a defensive showcase, with neither team able to break through despite several opportunities. Both goaltenders, Trenton’s Brady Spry and Nepean’s Otsirakatste Brant, stood tall, keeping the score tied at one apiece heading into the third period.
Trenton took control early in the third period, with Matthew Hicks scoring just 2:32 into the frame, assisted by Corbin Roach. Nepean battled back, leveling the score at 2-2 when Carson Mcgurn scored at 5:55, with assists credited to Peter Freel and Riley Streska.
The deadlock was short-lived, as Trenton’s Corbin Roach put the Golden Hawks ahead once again at 6:28, with Jacob Xu and Camdon O’Neill assisting. Trenton sealed the victory with a goal from Dillon Stiles at 12:24, assisted by Evan Erwin and Sammy Longo.
Key Performances
- Trenton’s Matthew Hicks had a stellar night, contributing a goal and an assist, while Corbin Roach matched that performance with a goal and an assist of his own.
- Nepean’s Peter Freel played a crucial role for the Raiders, scoring a goal and assisting on the other, but his efforts weren’t enough to stop Trenton’s momentum.
Goaltending Duel
Trenton’s goaltender, Brady Spry, was a key factor in the win, stopping 31 of 33 shots. Nepean’s Otsirakatste Brant, who started the game and played just under 30 minutes, made 19 saves on 20 shots before being replaced by Darcy Murphy, who stopped 9 of 12 shots in relief.
Game Details
- Arena: Duncan Memorial Gardens, Attendance: 501
- Duration: 2 hours, 13 minutes
- Start: 7:30 PM EDT, End: 9:43 PM EDT
Trenton’s victory over Nepean showed their resilience and ability to perform under pressure, especially in a tightly contested match.
