Jan 30, 2018
Win in Northern Showdown
Last night the Spartans hosted it's biggest rival the Temiscaming Titans. Heading into the game the Spartans were holding down top spot in the North Division, which the Spartans grabbed from Titans three weeks ago in Temiscaming with a huge 5-4 win.
This win also gave the Spartans a 3-2 edge in the season series. With the standings being so tight between the top four teams in North Division every point is very important heading into the last month of the season.
The Spartans came out of the gate strong and hit the board first when Kjellgren ripped a wrist shot top shelve on a face off play from Whitehead and Austin. This lead was short lived as the Titans replied only a minute later to tie the game.
The score remained tied until the 6 minute mark of the second when Whitehead put one home from Skvortsov and Morton. With 4 minutes left in the second Circenis would give the Spartans a two goal lead from Gauthier and Hannaford. With less then 2 minutes left in the period Circenis would give the Spartans a 3 goal lead as he tapped in a highlight reel pass from Morton and Gauthier.
The Spartans headed into the intermission with a 4-1 lead. The Spartans knew the Titans would make a big push in the third to try and get back in the game, but the Spartans and goaltender Spath were ready for the challenge and shut the door defensively, not surrounding another goal.
The Spartans would score late in the 3rd on the power play when Morton ripped one home from Gsuthier and Circenis. Final score was 5-1 for Spartans. The Spartans are now 29-9-0 on the season.
The Spartans have a big week of practice to prepare for a rematch with Titans on home ice Friday. Warm up is 7:00, Puck Drop is 7:30
Three Stars of the Game
1st Star Erik Spath 52 Saves
2nd Star Ralfs Circenis 2G, 1A
3rd Star Emile Goulet (Titans) 51 Saves