Comets Edge Rapids 2-1 in a Defensive Battle
The energy was palpable at the Gatineau Valley Arena last night, as fans eagerly awaited the first-ever Battle of Quebec between the Paugan Falls Rapids and the Pontiac Comets. Both teams delivered a thrilling back-and-forth game, keeping fans on the edge of their seats despite the low-scoring affair.
Game Recap
The Comets struck first late in the second period, with Blake Howarth capitalizing on a scramble in front of the Rapids net. Amid the chaos, Howarth managed to slip the puck through Malcolm Patry’s five-hole, giving the Comets a 1-0 lead with 5:40 remaining in the period.
In the third period, the Comets doubled their lead when Ben Harris picked up a turnover just inside the Rapids blue line. Skating to the top of the circle, Harris fired a shot low on the blocker side, beating Patry at 17:40 and giving the Comets a 2-0 cushion.
However, the Rapids did not go down without a fight. Just two minutes later, Sam McLaughlin dazzled the crowd with a highlight-reel goal, taking a pass from Nolan Peck, weaving around a Comets defender, and ripping a shot past Danick Boisvert’s blocker to cut the lead to 2-1.
Key Moments
The Comets applied heavy pressure early in the game, outshooting the Rapids and winning puck battles. Rapids goaltender Malcolm Patry stood tall, making 18 saves in the first period alone to keep the game scoreless. The Rapids found their rhythm in the second, creating multiple high-quality chances, including a shot off the post by Garth McLaughlin and breakaways for both Pineshish Whiteduck and Carter Peck. Boisvert was up to the task though, stopping all 22 shots through the first two periods.
Both goalies were standout performers, with Boisvert earning 1st star honors after stopping 31 of 32 shots, while Patry secured 2nd star, turning aside 37 of 39 shots. Ben Harris, who registered a goal and an assist for the Comets, rounded out the three stars of the game.
Game Highlights
Before puck drop, league president Josh Rowlands performed the ceremonial puck drop, accompanied by Ronnie Rapid. Jan McCambley delivered a stellar rendition of the national anthem, while flag bearers Ethan Kealey and Isabel Lemieux, niece and nephew of defenseman Bryan Kealey, proudly led the teams onto the ice.
The fan engagement continued throughout the night with Diane Field winning the 50/50 draw, taking home $1210. Marc Savard claimed victory in the chuck-a-puck contest, and Keegan Frederick successfully found the flag in the intermission challenge.
Game Sponsors
The Rapids would like to extend a huge thank you to our sponsors for last night’s game: Century 21 CrossSmith Team, IGA Famille Charles, and Mark Ryan Real Estate for their continued support!
Looking Ahead
The Rapids, now sitting at 2-1-0, will regroup and prepare for their next home game on October 26th against the South Grenville Rangers. With the momentum of two wins and a narrow loss, the Rapids are eager to bounce back in front of their home crowd.
Let’s pack the rink again next Saturday and cheer the Rapids on!