By: Aicha Chamor
The Ottawa West Golden Knights showcased their strength in a commanding 6-2 victory over the Carleton Place Jr Canadians on Thursday, Oct. 3, in a game that demonstrated their offensive firepower and strong teamwork.
The Golden Knights set the tone early, scoring two goals in the first period. Forward Bailey Pipe opened the scoring with a well-placed shot, followed by forward Cooper Moore who extended the lead just before the intermission. The Golden Knights’ ability to control the puck and generate scoring opportunities kept the Carleton Place on the defensive.
Carleton Place came out strong in the second period. Centre Gabriel Bergeron found the net, energizing the team and the fans. Shortly after, forward Truan Conrad scored again, bringing the score to 2-2. However, the Golden Knights quickly regained control, with centre Justin Murdoch bringing the score to 3-2 by the end of the period.
The home crowd side was pulsating with supportive energy, cheering loudly in anticipation and fervor for the Golden Knights’ last period and hoped for victory over their rivals.
The final period began with fierce competition as the Golden Knights insisted on not giving the Carleton Place even an inch of breathing room to score their third goal. Golden Knights’ forward Xavier Goussis first goal, assisted by forward Connor Weido and defenceman Carter Pilon, to make the game at 4-2. Forward Jacob Perreault then gave the Knights the lead back before Goussis lit up the arena again with the final goal assisted by defenceman Jonathan Curti and Perreault, securing the 6-2 victory.
Following the Golden Knights’ impressive victory over the Carleton Place Jr Canadians, assistant coach Matt Soubliere praised the team’s overall effort. “We started off a little bit slow, but we picked it up in the second period,” he said. “In the third period, we finished them off. It was a good effort from the guys all around.”
However, Soubliere noted there is still room for improvement, adding, “we need to take the body a little bit more and make sharper passes.”
Goussis, named the game’s first star, shared his thoughts on the match, reflecting on the nerve he felt before playing. “I channel my nerves and I put it into hard work,” he said.
Looking ahead, Gousis expressed his desire to maintain their strong start.
