By: Agrani Tiwari
The Ottawa West Golden Knights fought hard in a back-and-forth game against the Casselman Vikings on Monday night but fell just short in overtime, losing 5-4 at the Barbara Ann Scott Arena.
Despite a strong offensive effort, the Golden Knights could not secure the win in a game that saw multiple lead changes. The Golden Knights struck first when Connor Dickey found the back of the net at 9:01, assisted by Bailey Pipe and Thomas Dickey. However, Casselman responded just under five minutes later as Jacob Knickle tied the game at 1-1, setting the tone for what would be a tight contest.
Casselman took the lead early in the second period with Mathieu Cloutier’s 25th goal of the season. The Golden Knights answered back on a power play at 9:41 when Thomas Dickey capitalized on a pass from his brother Connor Dickey.
“Well, I thought we played well. I thought we were the better team. Just a couple of goals, couple, bad bounces,” said Thomas Dickey. “I thought that was one of our best team efforts we played this year. If we keep playing like that, I think we’ll do well in the playoffs.”
Thomas also spoke about the special experience of playing alongside his brother: “Honestly, it’s been the best time of my life playing with him. He’s such a great player, and just being able to play with him is so special for me, for him, and for my family. So, it’s great.”
The Vikings regained the lead with a goal from Marc-Olivier McCarthy at 15:55, but the Golden Knights once again responded, this time with a shorthanded goal from James Davidson at 18:13. Just 12 seconds later, Casselman reclaimed the lead, with Knickle netting his second of the night.
Trailing 4-3 in the third period, the Golden Knights continued to push offensively. Their persistence paid off when Cooper Moore scored on the power play at 8:31, tying the game at 4-4. Both teams had chances to take the lead, but neither could break through, forcing overtime.
Casselman sealed the victory just 1:39 into overtime when Tristan Simoneau scored the game-winner off a pass from Vincent Bastien. Golden Knights goaltender James Cole put up a strong effort, making 37 saves on 42 shots, but it wasn’t enough to hold off the Vikings.
“Oh, it was a very good game. It had two top teams in the league battling back and forth. It was good,” said assistant coach Barry Cape. “Just anybody could’ve won tonight. It was fun to watch.”
The Golden Knights will look to bounce back when they face the Embrun Panthers on Thursday, February 13, at 7:20 p.m. EST.
With the playoff race heating up, every point is crucial, and Ottawa West will aim to put this overtime loss behind them as they prepare for their upcoming matchups.
