Rapids Triumph in Thrilling 4-2 Win Over South Grenville Rangers

The Paugan Falls Rapids battled to an electrifying 4-2 victory over the South Grenville Rangers on Oct 26, thrilling a lively crowd of 427 at the Gatineau Valley Arena. The Rapids' performance was highlighted by standout goals, intense physical play, and a crowd-stirring showdown as the game neared its end.

Game Recap: Rapids Rally to Victory

The game began with the Rapids controlling much of the play, but it was the Rangers who struck first when Etienne Champagne buried a rebound off a net-front scramble with just over six minutes left in the first period. The Rapids responded early in the second when Carter Peck finished a 2v1 rush with a top-corner wrist shot, courtesy of a slick feed from Raphael Lajeunesse, to even the score.

The Rapids then seized the lead on a deft redirect by Cole Peck off a pass from Jeremy Maisonneuve. However, the Rangers capitalized on a power-play opportunity shortly after, as Nathan Merrett’s shot from the blue line found the net through a screen to tie the game at 2-2.

Three minutes later, the Rapids regained control when Garth McLaughlin set up his cousin Sam McLaughlin for a breakaway. Sam delivered with a calm, top corner finish to put the Rapids ahead 3-2, a lead they would protect into the third period.

High-Intensity Third Period

The final period was charged with physicality, and emotions ran high. During a 3v2 rush, Alex Lafrenière powered toward the net, sparking a ferocious clash with the Rangers' Cody Adams. The exchange ignited the crowd, further amplifying the intensity in the arena.

In the game’s final moments, with the Rapids on the penalty kill, Jeremy Pothier found the empty net to seal the victory at 4-2. Just when it seemed the excitement was over, a Rangers player slashed Bure Odjick behind the play, prompting Ronnie Harrison to step in to defend his teammate. The resulting fight saw the 6'3" Harrison and the 6'3" Odjick engage in a fierce heavyweight battle at center ice, met with resounding applause from fans and players alike. The bout ended mutually after 20 seconds, capping off a memorable night for the home crowd.

A Night of Community and Celebration

Despite competing events in the area, Rapids fans turned out in force, with chants of "Go Rapids Go" echoing through the rink. Rapids mascot Ronnie Rapid kept spirits high, energizing the crowd throughout the game. Flag bearers for the evening included Declan Dingle, Amber Desmarais, Connor Kelso-Watts, and Ryder Morrison, while Devin Brennan claimed victory in the first intermission "Find the Flag" challenge. Caleb Dubois won the chuck-a-puck competition, Frankie Monette received a special Rapids x CrossSmith Team puck, and Chris McColgan took home $895 as the 50/50 winner.

Looking Ahead

With a strong 3-1 start to the season, the Rapids now sit in second place in the EOSHL's capital division, just two points behind the Manotick Mariners with a game in hand. They’ll now embark on a series of road games, including matchups against the South Stormont Mustangs (Nov 2), Manotick Mariners (Nov 9 and 16), Glengarry Pipers (Nov 23), and Pontiac Comets (Nov 29) before returning to the Gatineau Valley Arena on Nov 30 to host the North Dundas Rockets.

Don't Miss Rapids Family Fun Day

The excitement continues next Sunday with Rapids Family Fun Day! Spots are still available to register kids for a chance to hit the ice with their Rapids heroes. The day will feature a Rapids Skills Competition from 12:30 to 1:50 pm, where fans can watch the Rapids compete in events like Fastest Skater, Hardest Shot, Accuracy Shooting, Breakaway Challenge, and Puck Control Obstacle Course.

The Rapids are thrilled with the energy from their fans and are ready to carry the momentum forward. Don’t miss out on all the action and family fun!