Last night the Spartans hosted Northern Rivals the Temiscaming Titans. The Spartans were looking to remain in first place and take the season series win over the Titans. Heading into the game the Spartans held a 4-2-0 advantage in the season series.
The Spartans came out strong to open the game, but it would be the Titans who would strike first only six minutes in. Five minutes later the Titans would strike again to take a 2-0 lead. The Spartans would be forced to take a time out to settle things down. Despite out shooting the Titans 17-13 in the first, the Spartans entered the intermission down 2-0. The Spartans came out strong in the second and really controlled the play.
The Spartans were doing everything but putting the puck in the back of the net and unfortunately the Titans struck again with just over six minutes left in the period. Despite giving up a goal and trailing 3-0, the Spartans continued to push and were finally rewarded with 4:46 left in the second when Morton ripped a point shot bar down from Skortsov and Ausitn. Only 43 seconds later Circenis would bring the Spartans within in one, from Gauthier and Hannaford. Then with only a 1:29 left in the period Austin would tie the score at 3-3 from Gauthier.
The South River Machar Arena was rocking after this and it continued into the third period where both clubs did everything the could to get the go ahead goal. Neither club was able to score in regulation, so the game was off to overtime. Despite great chances both ways, neither club could end the game, so it was off to a shoot out!!! The Spartans would prevail in the shootout with Thorsen scoring for the Spartans on a beautiful move and Spath would shut the door, stopping all three Titans shooters.
The win improved the Spartans record to (30-9-0) on the season and ensures they remain in first place in the North Division.
Three Stars of the Game
1st Star Emile Goulet 58 Saves (Titans)
2nd Star Erik Spath 44 Saves
3rd Star Bryan Austin 1G, 1A
The Spartans are off for the rest of the weekend. Next week the Spartans travel to Ville Marie Thursday to take on the Pirates and host the West Nipissing Lynx Friday for the final regular season home game of the season.
