By Matt Stefano
On Friday night, the Soo Thunderbirds played their first game of the month of November as they took on the Blind River Beavers in game 3 of the Provenzano Cup.
With the season series tied 1-1, and both games being decided by one goal, the Soo was looking to take a lead in the head to head series.
The Thunderbirds, who lost two straight, were also looking to snap the Beavers four game winning streak.
Fans in attendance at the John Rhodes were treated to a thriller, but the Thunderbirds dropped a 2-1 decision to the Blind River Beavers
“We were buzzing all game,” said Thunderbirds forward Tyler Malpass. “They just got a couple lucky bounces that turned into goals and we just couldn’t get the offence rolling.”
Malpass scored his 8th goal of the season on the power play at the 3:52 mark of the first period, which put him second in team goals.
“My season is going good,” continued Malpass. “I’m at a point per game right now and the goals are just coming. I’m feeding off my linemates and we’re all just playing really well together right now.”
Thunderbirds goaltender Brandon Gordon stood tall in net, making 29 saves on 31 shots.
“Gordon played unreal tonight,” concluded Malpass. “He keeps us in it every single night. He’s a great goaltender and makes all the big saves that he needs to make.”
Nicolas Case and Brendan Miller had an assist each for the Thunderbirds.
Owen Robinson, who leads all NOJHL rookies in points, scored a goal and an assist for the Beavers.
Beavers forward Josh Norman scored his first of the season, which proved to be the game winner while Ryan Cullen also got on the scoresheet with one assist.
Michael Corson made 26 stops for the Beavers victory.
Thunderbirds will be back in action next Friday in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan to take on the Soo Eagles at 7:30 p.m. from the Pullar Stadium.
(Photo credit to Jim Egan)
