Frontenacs drop spirited game three to 67’s 4-1, go down 3-0 in series

Kingston, ON – The Kingston Frontenacs returned home Tuesday night in a must win Game 3, but despite a strong push in the middle frame, dropped a 4-1 decision to the Ottawa 67’s, falling behind 3-0 in their opening round series.

Kingston found themselves under heavy pressure early, managing just two shots in the opening period while Ottawa fired 11 on goal. Netminder Matt Minchak stood tall to keep the game within reach, including surviving a chaotic sequence where an Ottawa goal was disallowed after goaltender interference in the crease. The 67’s would eventually break through however, as Spencer Bowes converted on a breakaway to give Ottawa a 1-0 lead heading into the first intermission.

The Frontenacs responded with urgency in the second, pushing the pace and generating far more sustained offensive zone time. Despite the improved effort, Ottawa goaltender Ryder Fetterolf was equal to the task, turning aside Kingston’s chances. There was also a moment of controversy for the 67’s, as Maleek McGowan appeared to extend the lead with a highlight reel move to the net, but the puck never crossed the line and the goal was waved off after review. Ottawa carried their 1-0 advantage through 40 minutes.

The game slipped away in the third period as Ottawa capitalized on their opportunities. Jasper Kuhta doubled the lead early in the frame, and just over a minute later Sam McCue made it 3-0, putting Kingston in a difficult spot. The Frontenacs continued to battle and were eventually rewarded when Matthew Henderson broke the shutout late, but any hopes of a comeback were sealed when Nic Sima hit the empty net.

Now trailing 3-0 in the series, the Frontenacs face elimination heading into Game 4. While there were signs of life; particularly in the second period, the margin for error has disappeared as Kingston looks to keep their season alive on home ice.