The Dynamic Property Services-sponsored Solway Sharks embarked on a long journey to Romford on Sunday morning, buoyed by an important point earned in a home loss that was decided in a nail-biting penalty shootout.
1st period
The game started with an early setback for the Sharks, as Kian Shevlin was penalised for boarding just over two minutes into the first period. The Raiders capitalised on the ensuing power play, with Zachary Yokoyama finding the net off an Andrew Shewfelt pass. Despite the early deficit, the Sharks pushed back, working to shake off the fatigue of their travel. As the period progressed, the Sharks began to build momentum, generating a few strong scoring chances in its latter stages. Goaltender Jordan Marr was instrumental in keeping the Raiders at bay, making several key saves to prevent further damage. The first period ended 1-0 in favour of the home side.
2nd period
The Sharks came out with renewed energy in the second period. The line of Kyle Carruth, Joe Coulter, and Torran Anderson provided a spark, creating extended offensive-zone pressure. One of the best chances of the period came from Nolan Gardiner, who attempted to tuck the puck behind Raiders’ netminder Owen Rider. Both John Dunbar and Caly Robertson followed up with close-range efforts but were unable to convert. Despite outshooting the Raiders in the second frame, the Sharks entered the second intermission still trailing 1-0.
3rd period
With a depleted roster of just eight forwards, the Sharks dug deep for the third and final period. They relentlessly pressed forward, hunting for the equalising goal. As always, Jordan Marr delivered in net, turning away every Raiders opportunity to keep his team within reach. Finally, at 50:37, the Sharks’ persistence paid off. Kell Beattie received a pass from Torran Anderson and fired a pinpoint shot over the shoulder of Owen Rider, finding the top corner to tie the game. The final 10 minutes of regulation were action-packed, with both teams trading quality scoring chances.
Late in regulation, the Sharks faced adversity when they were called for too many men on the ice with under two minutes remaining. However, the penalty-kill unit, anchored by Jordan Marr’s stellar play, held firm, sending the game into overtime. The Raiders carried a brief 20-second power play into the extra period, but the Sharks’ penalty killers continued their strong performance, giving the team a fighting chance at even strength.
In overtime, the Sharks generated the better chances but struggled to solve Owen Rider. With less than 10 seconds remaining, Nolan Gardiner found Kell Beattie in front of the net. Beattie made no mistake, rifling the puck past Rider to seal the victory and complete his two-goal night. The shorthanded Sharks claimed a well-deserved two points in a gutsy road performance.
Kell Beattie was named Man of the Match for the Sharks, while Harvey Briggs earned the honour for the Raiders.
Solway Sharks defenseman, Kell Beattie had this to say:
Scoring two goals this weekend, including the game-winner in overtime, was a great feeling. We’re proud to come away with 3 out of 4 points – a solid showing and a step forward as a team.”
The Sharks return to home ice this Sunday, Dec. 1st, to face the Milton Keynes Lightning at the Shark Tank. This marks the second meeting between the two sides this season. The Lightning, who currently sit atop the standings, will pose a formidable challenge, but the Sharks will look to build on their recent strong performances.
Puck drop is at 5:00 PM, with doors opening at 3:30 PM. Tickets are available online at sharksihc.com/tickets or in person at the Dumfries Ice Bowl. Let’s show our support and pack the Shark Tank for what promises to be an exciting matchup!