In what has to be the largest crowd of the season for an MMJHL game, definitely received their moneys’ worth. With the exception of the early portion of the first period, this one was pretty much back and forth all game long. This one had it all, great saves, good plays and hard hits. This series is living up to what most people thought it was going to be. With the OT win, the Raiders now lead the series 2 games to nil.
The opening period was scoreless with both teams having some good opportunities to light the lamp first. The Raiders would connect early in the second to give the game its’ first goal. Late in the same period, Dylan Zeke with an assist from Reg Bowles would knot this affair up at one and send the teams to the second intermission all even. The third period would resolve nothing, thanks to the efforts of both tenders. This one would require some extra time but it wouldn’t last long. A shot from the side boards would deflect off two sets of legs stationed in front of the goal and would end up in the back of the Hawks net, capping off a Raider victory.
The referee let the players decide this one. Each team were assessed only 2 odd man advantages and neither one could capitalize. Ryan Hall was tagged with the loss despite having turned aside 32 of the 34 Raider shots directed his way. Ryan Brown continued his playoff winning ways in the Raider net recording 20 saves.
Game # 3 goes Tuesday, March 28 at the Eric Coy Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 P.M. You don’t dare want to miss this one, hope to see you out!