The Kitchener Rangers capitalized on multiple power-play opportunities to defeat the Windsor Spitfires 4-3 in overtime on Friday in the opening game of the Western Conference final at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium.
After a tightly contested regulation, the Rangers netted the tying goal on the man advantage late in the second period and then secured the win early in the first overtime period with another power-play strike.
Discipline and Offence Key
The Spitfires were limited to just one power-play chance compared to four for the Rangers, a disparity that proved costly. Windsor head coach Greg Walters acknowledged the need for his team to be more disciplined and generate more offensive opportunities.
"We knew it was going to be a tight game," Walters said. "We have to be more disciplined and try to create more offence."
Controversial Overtime Goal
The winning goal came after a lengthy delay as Windsor challenged the play for being offside at the blue line. However, the video feed went out, and after review, the goal was upheld. Rangers head coach Jussi Ahokas expressed confidence in the call.
"We knew it was a good goal," Ahokas said. "I wasn't worried."
The loss snapped Windsor's nine-game playoff winning streak, and the Rangers now lead the best-of-seven series 1-0. Game 2 is set for Sunday in Kitchener.
Fast Start and Back-and-Forth Action
Windsor got off to a strong start with Anthony Cristoforo scoring just 47 seconds into the game. However, Kitchener responded with two goals in just over three minutes to take a 2-1 lead. Nathan Villeneuve tied the game at 2-2 on a rebound before the end of the first period.
Jack Nesbitt gave Windsor a 3-2 lead late in the second period, but penalties in the final three minutes allowed Kitchener to tie the game. A.J. Spellacy received a charging minor, and Cristoforo was called for hooking, giving the Rangers a brief two-man advantage. Jack Pridham scored on a loose puck to make it 3-3.
"I think they had just two shots before that power play and the five-on-three they got," Walters said. "In the third period, we didn't manage pucks. We were trying to make plays that weren't there and we've got to manage the puck better."
Overtime Drama
Both teams had chances in overtime before Villeneuve was assessed a double-minor for high sticking. The Rangers needed only eight seconds to convert, with Sam O'Reilly burying a rebound for the game-winner.
"It was a good effort, but we have to be better," Walters said. "In my opinion, these are the best two teams in the Western Conference going head-to-head and every play matters. I know our guys will be better."
