Week 17 Recap

Game Summary: Kemptville 73’s @ Cornwall Colts

Date: Thursday January 25th, 2024

Location: Ed Lumley Arena

Final Score: Kemptville 73’s 0, Cornwall Colts 3

In a close matchup at the Ed Lumley Arena, the 73’s fell short to the Colts.

The first period saw Cornwall seize an early lead, with Montroy finding the back of the net at 7:03, assisted by Bowen and Garnier. Despite Kemptville’s efforts to respond, including a penalty for boarding against Esposito, Cornwall’s defense remained resolute, limiting Kemptville’s offensive chances and maintaining their one-goal advantage.

As the game progressed into the second period, both teams engaged in a tightly contested battle, with neither side able to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Despite penalties on both sides, including a flurry of infractions early in the period, the scoreboard remained unchanged as the teams headed into the final frame deadlocked at 1-0 in favor of Cornwall.

In the decisive third period, Cornwall surged forward, extending their lead with a goal from Samodral at 17:15, putting Kemptville on the back foot. Despite Kemptville’s efforts to mount a comeback, Cornwall’s defense held firm, frustrating their opponents at every turn. With time winding down, Cornwall sealed the victory with an empty-net goal from Montroy at 19:30, assisted by Perron and Tallman, cementing their 3-0 win.

Both goaltenders put on impressive performances, with Kemptville’s Easter making 28 saves out of 30 shots faced, while Cornwall’s Miceli turned aside all 34 shots sent his way, securing the shutout victory. Despite Kemptville’s valiant effort and offensive pressure, they were unable to solve Cornwall’s defensive structure and capitalize on their scoring chances.

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Game Summary: Kemptville 73’s vs Nepean Raiders

Date: Friday January 26th, 2024

Location: North Grenville Municipal Centre

Final Score: Kemptville 73’s 6, Nepean Raiders 0

In a dominating performance at the North Grenville Municipal Centre, the Kemptville 73’s showcased their offensive firepower and defensive prowess with a commanding 6-0 victory over the Nepean Raiders. From the opening puck drop, Kemptville asserted their control over the game, setting the tone early and maintaining relentless pressure throughout all three periods.

The first period saw Kemptville jump out to an early lead, with Melvin striking first at 6:58, capitalizing on a well-executed play assisted by Haughian and Bennett. The momentum stayed firmly in Kemptville’s favor as Esposito extended their lead at 16:29, putting Nepean on their heels. Despite a couple of penalties, including a tripping call against Trottier of Kemptville, Nepean struggled to generate offensive opportunities against Kemptville’s stifling defense.

As the game progressed into the second period, Kemptville continued to dominate, with Rutley adding to the lead at 12:45, assisted by Moroz and Melvin. Kemptville’s penalty kill unit came up big as Melvin notched a shorthanded goal at 15:20, further extending Kemptville’s lead. Despite Nepean’s efforts, including penalties of their own, Kemptville’s disciplined play kept them off the scoresheet.

The third period saw no let-up from Kemptville, with Redmond adding to the lead at 7:33, assisted by Montoni and Kozyra. Kemptville’s offensive onslaught continued as birthday boy Trottier found the back of the net at 10:06, assisted by Esposito and O’Doherty. Despite a late penalty against Kemptville, their defense held strong, thwarting any attempts by Nepean to mount a comeback.

Goaltender Biron stood tall between the pipes for Kemptville, turning aside all 19 shots he faced to earn the shutout victory. Nepean’s goaltenders McEwan and Gedraitis faced a barrage of shots, with McEwan making 17 saves and Gedraitis making 3 saves. The teams face off again on Sunday afternoon

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Game Summary: Kemptville 73’s @ Nepean Raiders

Date: Sunday January 26th, 2024

Location: Nepean Sportsplex

Final Score: Kemptville 73’s 0 , Nepean Raiders 1

In a tightly contested match at the Nepean Sportsplex’s Yzerman Arena, the Kemptville 73’s faced off against the Nepean Raiders in a showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final shootout. Despite the scoreboard reading a narrow 1-0 victory for the Nepean Raiders, the Kemptville 73’s displayed unwavering determination and resilience throughout the game.

From the opening faceoff, both teams showcased their defensive prowess, resulting in a scoreless first period. Despite a few penalties on both sides, including roughing and unsportsmanlike conduct, neither team managed to capitalize on the power play opportunities, testament to the tight defensive strategies employed by both teams.

As the game progressed into the second period, the intensity only heightened, with both teams exchanging scoring chances but failing to find the back of the net. The Kemptville 73’s continued to face penalty trouble, with infractions ranging from goalie interference to cross-checking, yet their penalty kill unit remained steadfast, denying the Nepean Raiders any opportunity to gain the upper hand.

Entering the third period deadlocked in a scoreless tie, both teams refused to relent, battling fiercely for every inch of ice. Despite a penalty against Nepean for interference, the Kemptville 73’s were unable to capitalize on the power play, as the game headed into overtime.

The first overtime period proved equally fruitless for both teams, with neither able to break the deadlock. The goaltenders stood tall, turning away every shot fired their way, keeping their respective teams in contention for the win.

Ultimately, it came down to a nail-biting shootout to determine the outcome. While the Kemptville 73’s fought valiantly, they fell just short as the Nepean Raiders managed to slip two shots past the goaltender, securing a hard-fought victory. Despite the loss, goaltender Biron showcased remarkable skill and resilience, turning aside 28 shots throughout regulation and overtime.

photo: www.icelevel.com