The London Knights hockey team have successfully clinched their seventh consecutive win by besting the Soo Greyhounds with a final score of 5-1. This thrilling match took place at the GFL Memorial Gardens on the 6th of November, 2024.
The Knights demonstrated a strong offensive strategy by taking an impressive 43 shots on goal during their away match, while simultaneously minimizing the Greyhounds’ chances by restricting them to only 13 shots at their goalie, Austin Elliott. Easton Cowan further demonstrated his prowess by extending his regular season point streak to an impressive 46 games, contributing two goals in the third period.
Despite the Knights’ initial onslaught of seven shots, it was the Soo Greyhounds who first hit the back of the net. This early advantage was secured by 19-year-old Justin Cloutier, who skillfully deflected a shot over Austin Elliott, earning the Greyhounds a 1-0 lead at just over six minutes into the first period.
Undeterred, the Knights leveled the playing field during a power play at the 15:25 mark. Easton Cowan initiated a brilliant play that involved Sam Dickinson and Jesse Nurmi, ultimately leading to Landon Sim’s successful goal, his fifth of the season.
Sam Dickinson proved instrumental to the Knights’ victory, earning both a goal and an assist, and subsequently being named the game’s first star. The Knights’ second goal came as a result of a power play early in the second period. Although Sam O’Reilly’s attempt was thwarted, Oliver Bonk capitalized on the rebound, scoring his second goal of the year and securing a 2-1 lead for the London team.
Dickinson extended the lead further to 3-1, executing a powerful low slap shot behind Schenkel during the middle period. Assisted by O’Reilly, the Knights held a two-goal advantage as they entered the final 20 minutes. Easton Cowan sealed the victory with back-to-back goals early in the third period, leaving the final score at 5-1.
Goalie Austin Elliott performed commendably, allowing only two shots in the final period and maintaining a perfect 5-0 record for the Knights. Captain Denver Barkey also contributed to the win with two assists. The Knights showcased their prowess in special teams, going 2-for-5 on power plays and 3-for-3 on penalty kills.
In related news, former London Knight, Isaiah George, made his National Hockey League debut for the New York Islanders on November 5, playing against Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins.
The London Knights will next face off against the North Bay Battalion at Canada Life Place on Friday, November 8, at 7 p.m. The Battalion, currently on a four-game losing streak, have previously reached the Eastern Conference championship for three consecutive seasons. The match promises to be an exciting showdown between two strong teams.
