On December 29, Evan Van Gorp masterminded three goals while Aleksei Medvedev brilliantly repelled 37 out of 38 shots, leading the London Knights to a 4-1 victory over the Firebirds in Flint, Michigan. This victory marked the Knights’ fourth consecutive win, halting the Firebirds’ five-match winning spree.
This game signified the midpoint of the Knights’ 2024-25 campaign. Presently, they hold the highest position in the overall OHL standings, boasting a record of 28 victories and only six losses.
The initial period of the game saw intense action from both teams, but no goals were scored thanks to the impressive performances of the goalkeepers. Medvedev was particularly exceptional, making 12 saves in the first 20 minutes.
Nathan Day, a prospect of the Edmonton Oilers, made nine saves on the other end. However, London was missing five regular players due to their participation in the World Junior Hockey Championship. Additionally, Will Nicholl and Logan Hawery were absent due to illness.
The game’s first goal came four minutes and 16 seconds into the second period when Noah Aboflan tipped a shot from Cam Allen, marking his third goal of the season. Allen has been in exceptional form recently, racking up six points in three games.
The Knights extended their lead in the third period with a goal from Andoni Fimis, his first in the Ontario Hockey League. Shortly after, Van Gorp assisted Henry Brzustewicz to score the third goal for the Knights. The team’s lead was further extended when PJ Fagan scored his second goal of the season. The Firebirds managed to score a consolation goal in the closing moments of the match.
Despite having no success during their three power plays, the Knights successfully defended against all of the Firebirds’ five power plays.
After the holiday break, the London Knights’ defenders have collectively scored more points than any other OHL defensive lineup.
The Knights’ next game will be against Sarnia. The match will take place on New Year’s Eve at Canada Life Place and on New Year’s Day at the Progressive Auto Sales Area. London has an impressive record in these New Year’s fixtures, having not lost in the last 20 meetings.
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