Staff
A furious comeback by the Knights of Meaford over the final two periods ended in a 4-3 shootout loss to the Temiscaming Titans on Thursday night (November 9).
The Knights fell in a shootout for the second straight week on home ice and earned a single point for their effort. The Titans were able to get one goal in the shootout, while none of the Knights skaters were able to score.
Although the game ended in a shootout, the difference in the contest was a poor first period by the Knights. The Titans were able to jump out to a 2-0 lead in the opening frame. Head Coach Brad Tichbourne said the temperature was raised in the dressing room during the first intermission.
“We challenged the players after that first period – that wasn’t up to par,” said Tichbourne. “We challenged them to start playing for each other, go through the wall and show some pride. The boys responded and played hard in the last two periods.”
The Knights fell behind 3-1 early in the third, but two goals from veteran Connor Long evened the game. Mitchell Bolduc scored the other Meaford goal. Jeff Hyndman had two assists and single assists went to Jason Stone, David Hooper and Chase Lewis, who was making his debut in a Knights uniform.
Tichbourne said the loss of defenseman Will Vernon and forward Niko Walsh to misconduct penalties hurt the Meaford power play, which struggled throughout the game.
“We tinkered with the power play a bit after we lost Nico and Will. Overall, it was a good effort and Maris was great in goal,” said Tichbourne.
Goaltender Maris Saulgriezis was strong throughout the game and was spectacular in the overtime period. He made multiple big saves to keep the game tied.
Meaford’s record now stands at nine wins, five losses and three overtime/shootout losses for a total of 21 points. The team has a week off and is back in action at the Meaford Arena on Thursday, November 16 against the Fergus Force. Puck drop is 7:30 p.m.
Photo: Goaltender Maris Saulgriezis was strong in net for the Knights of Meaford in a 4-3 shootout loss to the Temiscaming Titans on Thursday night at Meaford Arena.
