In a game where neither team could get a cushion, the Smiths Falls Bears escaped with a 4-2 victory over the Cornwall Colts.
Neither team gained more than a two-goal lead, and Chris Karabassis's goal in the third period proved to be the difference maker.
Smiths Falls was sparked by Karabassis, who had one goal. Karabassis scored 16:56 into the third period to make the score 3-2 Smiths Falls. Brett Garvey assisted on the tally.
The Bears' penalty kill was spotless, allowing no goals on three Cornwall power plays. Smiths Falls kept Cornwall's goalie busy throughout the game, and Brett Nichol made 38 saves on 42 shots.
Smiths Falls additionally got points from Cole Busschaert, who also racked up one goal and one assist to lead the team in points. Others who scored for Smiths Falls included Josh Leblanc and Michael McKenney, who scored one goal each. In addition, Smiths Falls received assists from Broydon Stufko, Jared Henry, Zach Main, and Anthony DiPlacido, who each chipped in one.
The Colts stifled the Bears' power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man. Cornwall forced Smiths Falls goalie Evan DeBrouwer to work between the pipes, taking 34 shots.
The Colts were helped by Keegan Mulhearn, who registered one goal. Mulhearn scored 13:28 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Smiths Falls. Sebastian Dirven picked up the assist. Cornwall also got a goal from Ross Craig as well. More assists for Cornwall came via Tristan Conrad, Tanner Spink, and Lawson MacDougall, who contributed one each.
Evan DeBrouwer made 32 saves for the Bears on 34 shots. Smiths Falls incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors. Cornwall incurred eight minutes in penalty time with four minors.
