Canucks pick up two points with third period surge
The Elgin-Middlesex Canucks secured their first win of the tournament with a decisive 5-2 victory over the Ajax-Pickering Raiders, fuelled by a dominant third-period performance.
The game started with a bang as Jaxon Bagshaw (1) put the Raiders on the board just 15 seconds in. However, Lucas Nutting (2) responded moments later, leveling the score.
The second period followed a similar script, with Jax Conklin (1) briefly restoring the Raiders’ lead before Chase Griffith (2) answered back to tie things up at two.
Midway through the final frame, the Canucks capitalized on a shorthanded opportunity, with Ethan Haklander (1) burying the eventual game-winner. Nutting added his second of the game as an insurance marker, and Emerson Monk (1) sealed the deal with an empty-net goal.
Despite being outshot 33-22, the Canucks’ defensive effort and goaltending held strong, while their relentless pressure and ability to force turnovers made the difference.
“We just kept getting on them and causing turnovers,” said Burgess, who finished with two points. “We got multiple touches in the offensive zone, kept the pressure up, and ultimately wore them down.”
The Raiders will regroup with a night off before their next matchup on Wednesday, looking to bounce back. Meanwhile, the Canucks will be back in action later this afternoon, aiming to build on their momentum.
Under Armour Player of the Game:
Elgin-Middlesex Canucks: Lucas Nutting (D) – 2G
Ajax-Pickering: Jaxon Bagshaw (F) – 1G
