TIMBERWOLVES DEFEAT RAPIDS IN THE SHOOTOUT
MIRAMICHI – Sparked by a goaltenders’ duel and great defensive play, both the Grand Falls Rapids and Miramichi Timberwolves started off the new year on a high note on Saturday night. The Timberwolves came out on top with a 2-1 victory in the shootout frame thanks to veteran Jack Flanagan, playing in his 100th MHL game, who made a total of 29 saves.
Adam Lecours was also sensational between the pipes for the visitors with 34 saves, including some great stops late in the third period to keep the game tied after regulation time.
Despite the loss, the Rapids pick up a precious point in the standings and now lead the Chaleur Lightning by 2 points for first spot in the Eastlink North division.
With the trade period still active in the league, some newcomers were playing their first games with their respective teams on Saturday night. It was the case for William Patey and Conor Ryan who both had a solid game at the blueline for the Rapids. Brayden Campbell, who wore the Rapids uniform for three seasons before the trade deadline, was also playing his first game with the Timberwolves.
After a scoreless first period where both teams sent 9 shots on goal, it was Miramichi who struck first in the second period following a scramble in front of the Grand Falls crease. Kaden McNeil pushed the puck past the red line, giving the Timberwolves a 1-0 led at the 9-minute mark.
The Rapids tied the score however at 11:52 on a great individual effort from Reid Calder whose initial shot was stopped by Flanagan, but he was able to follow his own rebound to register his 7th goal of the season.
No goals were scored in the third period and during overtime. Alexis Doucet was the only player to score during the shootout session, giving Miramichi a 12th victory this season.
For the Rapids, it was only the second time this season that they went into a shootout. The first one came on September 14th in a 2-1 victory over the Edmundston Blizzard on home ice.
The Rapids will return to action next Friday as they visit the Campbellton Tigers.
EXTRA NOTES
*The Rapids remain atop the Eastlink North division with a record of 18-12-5 for 41 points in 35 games played.
*Both teams went scoreless on the power play: Miramichi 0 for 5/ Grand Falls 0 for 2.
*It was the 6th meeting this season between the Rapids and the Timberwolves. Both teams have won 3 times.
*William Patey and Oliver Plante both earned an assist on the Rapids’ goal.
*Three stars of the game: 1- Jack Flanagan (MIR); 2- Alexis Doucet (MIR); 3- Adam Lecours (GFR)
Patrick Thibault
Scoring
| 1st | |||
| No Scoring | |||
| 2nd | |||
| 9:01 | MIR | Kaden McNeil (3) ASST: Brayden Campbell (12), Ryan Hayes (8) | |
| 11:52 | GFR | Reid Calder (7) ASST: Oliver Plante (8), William Patey (5) | |
| 3rd | |||
| No Scoring | |||
| 1st OT | |||
| No Scoring | |||