Rapids Weekend Recap: Hard-Fought Battles Against Comets and Rockets

The Paugan Falls Rapids faced a challenging weekend with two matchups in two nights, taking on the Pontiac Comets on the road Friday and the undefeated North Dundas Rockets at home on Saturday. Despite falling short in both games, the Rapids showed resilience and determination that will undoubtedly fuel their future performances.

Friday Night: A Close Battle in Shawville

Final Score: Comets 5, Rapids 3

In a back-and-forth affair, the Rapids fell narrowly to the Pontiac Comets in the highly anticipated Battle of Quebec Part 2. Ryan Peck opened the scoring for the Rapids in the first period, finding the net off assists from Raphael Lajeunesse and newly acquired Etienne Champagne. The Comets answered back with two goals to take a 2-1 lead heading into the third period.

With 14:09 remaining in the final frame, Ryan Peck struck again with another goal, assisted by Raphael Lajeunesse and Cole Peck, tying the game at 2-2. However, the Comets responded just two minutes later to regain the lead. On the power play, Dakota Ostrowski evened the score once more with a timely goal assisted by Nicholas Carroll and Kodiak Whiteduck.

The Comets sealed their victory with two late goals, leaving the Rapids just short of a win. Despite the loss, the Rapids put on an excellent performance in front of an electric crowd of 466 fans at the Shawville Arena.

Saturday Night: Battling the Rockets at Home

Final Score: Rockets 8, Rapids 1

The Rapids faced a tall task on Saturday night, taking on the undefeated North Dundas Rockets. Coming off Friday’s physical game, the Rapids were without Carter Peck and Pineshish Whiteduck, both scratched due to injuries. While the Rapids fought hard, the rested Rockets took control early and maintained their dominance throughout the game.

The Rapids’ lone goal came midway through the third period when Ryan Peck scored with a precise shot high glove side, assisted by Dakota Ostrowski. Despite the lopsided score, the Rapids displayed grit and heart, battling through fatigue and adversity in front of a spirited home crowd of 494 fans.

Highlights from the Home Game:
  • Selina McCambley delivered a moving rendition of O’Canada to kick off the evening.
  • Marc Savard took home the 50/50 prize of $940.
  • Ember Ostrowski, daughter of Rapids forward Dakota Ostrowski, won the chuck-a-puck event.
  • Sheldon O’Neil won the Rapids x CrossSmith puck giveaway.
  • Over 125 teddies were collected in the teddy bear toss and are pledged to local families and the Maison des Collines for Christmas.
Looking Ahead

The Rapids will carry the lessons from these games into future matchups against the Comets and Rockets. With two more meetings against the Comets and one more against the Rockets this season, the Rapids are eager for the opportunity to respond.

Next up, the Rapids will travel to Arnprior on Saturday, December 7th, to face the Arnprior Rivermen in what promises to be another thrilling matchup.

Stay tuned for more updates and, as always, Go Rapids Go!