Comets Hold Off Rapids in Thrilling Holiday Classic Showdown

The Paugan Falls Rapids faced off against their Quebec rivals, the Pontiac Comets, in the Holiday Classic on Saturday night at the Gatineau Valley Arena. In front of a record-breaking crowd of 646 fans, the Rapids battled hard but fell short in a 5-2 loss.

Game Recap

The Rapids found themselves in an early hole as the Comets opened the scoring and added two more goals to take a 3-1 lead by the end of the first period. The Rapids’ first goal came at 13:01 in the first after an errant pass from Ryan Peck took an unpredictable bounce off the side boards. The Comets' netminder misplayed the puck, and it ended up in the back of the net, giving the Rapids their first tally of the game.

The second period saw a resurgence from the Rapids as they dominated much of the play. Etienne Champagne brought the Rapids back within one at 8:29, ripping a shot bar down after a slick cycle play from Raphael Lajeunesse and Nolan Peck. However, the Comets responded late in the period, scoring with under two minutes remaining to extend their lead to 4-2.

The third period started evenly, with both teams trading chances. A major penalty for fighting left the Rapids shorthanded for seven of the final nine minutes. The Comets capitalized on the power play to seal the game with a 5-2 victory.

Atmosphere and Community Support

The Holiday Classic lived up to its name, with a lively and emotional crowd setting the tone for the night. The Rapids wore helmet stickers to honour their late friend, Tyler Cross-Nesbitt, and the pre-game ceremony was a poignant moment for all in attendance. Awema Tendesi performed the Kitigan Zibi Honour Song for Tyler, followed by a moment of silence by all in attendance.

Adding to the heartfelt atmosphere, Selina McCambley and Jan McCambley delivered a stirring rendition of the national anthem, leaving the crowd in awe and drawing thunderous applause from all in attendance.

The night also featured plenty of community engagement:

  • 50/50 Winner: Tania McCambley took home an impressive $1535.
  • Chuck-a-Puck Winner: Zack Brousseau.
  • Intermission Challenge Winner: Aidan Monette.
  • CrossSmith x Rapids Puck Giveaway Winner: Sharon McLaughlin.
  • Flag Bearers: Parker Hitz, Owen Hill, and Cooper Wilson.

Looking Ahead

The Rapids are focused on their upcoming game against the Manotick Mariners on Saturday, January 4th, at home. With Alex Lafreniere returning from injury, and Dakota Ostrowski and Nathan Kellenberger back in the lineup, the Rapids are preparing for a strong performance against one of the league's top teams.

The Rapids will look to build on their second-period performance from the Holiday Classic and bring their full force to the ice. Fans won’t want to miss what promises to be another exciting matchup in Low.

Go Rapids Go!