Panthers keep up momentum with 5-2 win
The Sun County Panthers end day two of their OHL Cup campaign with an important four points after beating the Vaughan Kings 5-2.
Matthew Mesman (1) opened the scoring for the Panthers early in the frame, capitalizing on a power play. Brayden Lappalainen (3) extended the lead not long after, further cementing the Panthers’ early momentum.
However, the Kings pushed back late in the period, as Nate Feiner (1) found the back of the net, cutting the lead to 2-1.
Jaakko Wycisk (1), who was named one of the Players of the Game, wasted no time in the second frame, scoring the eventual game-winning goal just 22 seconds in. The Panthers would go on to add two more insurance goals from Andrew Baker (1) and Jordan Maine (1).
The Kings managed to find the back of the net once more, as Eloan Le Gallic (3) scored his third goal of the tournament. However, Vaughan couldn’t complete the comeback, as the Panthers’ defense held firm, with goaltender Anderson Camilleri making 29 saves on 31 shots to secure the victory.
Reflecting on the team’s preparation, Lappalainen emphasized their mindset heading into the tournament: “We knew every game was going to be tough, and we had to give it our all. I think we’ve done just that these last three games.” He also stressed the importance of staying focused: “We just take it one game at a time—don’t think too far ahead, don’t dwell on the past, just keep moving forward.”
Both teams will now have the rest of the night off and will look to regroup before their last round-robin matchups on Wednesday.
Under Armour Player of the Game:
Sun County Panthers: Jaakko Wycisk – 1G, 2A
Vaughan Kings: Nate Feiner – 1G
