Rapids Earn Thrilling 4-3 Victory Over Mariners on Home Ice

The Paugan Falls Rapids put on a stellar performance Saturday night, defeating the Manotick Mariners 4-3 in a nail-biting matchup at the Gatineau Valley Arena. Facing off against one of the league’s top teams, the Rapids delivered a complete effort on both ends of the ice, securing a crucial win and gaining momentum in the race for the playoffs.

Rapids Capitalize on Key Offensive Opportunities

The Rapids came out ready to play, and newcomer Gabriel Cuillerier wasted no time making an impression. At 13:48 in the first period, Cuillerier opened the scoring in highlight-reel fashion, slipping the puck through the centreman’s skates, stepping around him, and ripping a shot top corner for his first goal as a Rapid.

The Mariners responded with 8 minutes remaining in the first when Jesse Dick knocked home a loose puck in front of the Rapids net, tying the game at 1-1 heading into the second period.

The second period brought a flurry of offense, with the Rapids taking control early. Cole Peck gave the Rapids the lead just four minutes in, unleashing a blistering slap shot from the point that took a wild bounce into the top corner.

Midway through the second, Ryan Peck extended the lead to 3-1, driving hard to the net on a power move and slipping the puck five-hole past the Mariners goaltender. The Rapids kept the pressure on, and just two minutes later, Logan Beaupre added to the lead. Beaupre intercepted a Mariners pass and broke in alone on a breakaway, snapping a perfect shot top left corner to score his first EOSHL goal and give the Rapids a commanding 4-1 lead.

However, the Mariners refused to back down. Ryan Lough capitalized on a shorthanded opportunity at 7:08 in the second off a feed from Brett Gustavsen. Just a few minutes later, Gregg Burmaster redirected a shot on a delayed penalty call, narrowing the Rapids’ lead to 4-3 heading into the final frame.

Defensive Excellence Seals the Victory

With a one-goal lead, the Rapids locked things down in the third period. A disciplined defensive effort saw the Rapids winning key faceoffs, clearing pucks deep, and battling hard along the boards to defend their lead. Despite heavy pressure from the Mariners, the Rapids held strong to close out the game and earn the 4-3 victory.

Goaltender Aidan Foley was spectacular between the pipes, stopping 37 of 40 shots and posting an impressive .925 save percentage. Foley made several big saves that proved pivotal, especially in the game’s tense final moments.

Standout Performances

It was a memorable night for several Rapids players:

  • Gabriel Cuillerier and Logan Beaupre both notched their first EOSHL goals, with Cuillerier making an immediate impact in his second game as a Rapid and Beaupre breaking through offensively with his first goal of the season—a significant milestone for him a defenseman in his rookie year.

  • Newcomer Nathan Kellenberger made his Rapids debut, showcasing his speed and tenacity on the forecheck, delivering strong defensive play, and creating several quality scoring opportunities, proving to be a valuable addition to the lineup.

  • Ryan Peck and Cole Peck added key goals, further strengthening the Rapids’ offensive depth.

Electric Atmosphere and Community Success

The atmosphere at the Gatineau Valley Arena was electric, with fans braving the cold temperatures to cheer on the team all night long. Nancy Noel kicked off the evening with a beautiful rendition of O’Canada, while Lennox and Emerson Cretes proudly carried the flags.

There were plenty of winners throughout the evening:

  • 50/50 Draw: Ellen Boucher took home $610.

  • Chuck-a-Puck Winner: Layla Swanson.

  • Intermission Challenge: Everett McCambley emerged victorious over Brody Brown.

  • CrossSmith Puck Giveaway: Erica Courtney.

The night also saw incredible community support for the Rapids Food Drive, with over $400 in cash donations and two full Chevy truckloads of  food and goods generously contributed. The Rapids organization extends a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who helped make this initiative a remarkable success.

Looking Ahead: A Playoff Push Begins

The win marks a huge step forward for the Rapids, who now sit in a dead tie for 3rd place in the Capital Division alongside the Pontiac Comets, and just 2 points back of the Arnprior Rivermen in second place. With two games remaining against the Comets and one against the Rivermen, the Rapids are in prime position to climb the standings and battle for home-ice advantage in the opening round of playoffs.

The Mariners entered the game with an impressive 8-2-1 record, having only lost to the North Dundas Rockets and South Stormont Mustangs. Saturday’s victory represents a major upset for the Rapids and signals a surge of momentum as they enter the second half of the season.

The Rapids will be back in action on Saturday, December 28th, at home for the holiday classic against the Pontiac Comets. With playoff implications on the line, fans won’t want to miss this pivotal matchup.