The Charlottetown Islanders began the new year on a high note, defeating the Saint John Sea Dogs 5-1, marking their second consecutive victory against their maritime rivals.
From the very first puck drop, the Islanders demonstrated their intensity, ensuring the night would not be easy for the Sea Dogs. The showdown on January 4, 2025, showcased the Islanders' blend of speed, physicality, and cohesion, leading to what can be described as one of their most complete team performances of the season.
The action kicked off with both teams feeling each other out, but it was the Islanders who struck first. Marcus Kearsey opened the scoring at the 13:34 mark of the first period with a stunning wrap-around goal, aided by assists from Ross Campbell and Simon Hughes. This goal set the tone for the Islanders’ offensive pressure, which was palpable throughout the game.
Not long after Kearsey’s breakthrough, rookie Max Jardine scored his first-ever QMJHL goal, blasting one from the point past Sea Dogs’ goaltender Charles-Edward Gravel to double the lead to 2-0 at 11:35. The Islanders did not relent; they continued to outshoot the Sea Dogs and commanded the play, forcing Saint John to change goaltenders.
Goaltender Nicolas Ruccia was key for Charlottetown, making significant stops, including one on a breakaway attempt with 6:27 left in the first period. Despite facing his first penalty when Kyle Powers was called for cross-checking, the Islanders' penalty kill stood firm, allowing no shots during the Sea Dogs’ power play.
Ending the first 20 minutes with a 2-0 lead, the Islanders remained steadfast. They were outshot slightly by the Sea Dogs at 12-10 but held the advantage they built.
The second period showcased more of the Islanders’ dominance. Just 1:41 minutes in, fresh addition Jabez Seymour scored, extending the lead to 3-0. This early goal, set up by Kyle Powers and Ethan Montroy, was soon followed by another from Simon Hughes at 15:59, pushing the score to 4-0 with precision passing leading to the goal.
Although the Sea Dogs managed to get one back through Ben Amyot around the midway point of the period, it did little to diminish the Islanders' confidence. The Sea Dogs had their chances, including power plays; yet, each attempt was thwarted magnificently by the Islanders' defensive efforts.
Entering the final frame with the score at 4-1, the Islanders kept their momentum flowing. Nathan Leek, leading the team with 12 goals this season, netted his fourth goal at 7:10, sealing the game at 5-1. This goal was assisted by Brayden Stumpf and Anthony Flanagan, illustrating the level of collaboration among the players.
Despite the game losing some of its earlier rhythm as play became slightly disjointed, the Islanders remained the stronger of the two teams. A late power play opportunity for the Sea Dogs came with Kyle Powers folded back to the penalty box for hooking; still, the Islanders kept the Sea Dogs' chances limited and finished strong, sealing their 5-1 victory.
Post-game analysis from Coach Jim Hulton expressed satisfaction with the team’s execution and intensity. "The Islanders’ performance was as complete as it gets, with strong offensive contributions from many players and stellar effort from goaltender Nicolas Ruccia," noted Hulton, reflecting on the game’s dynamics.
Players reflected on their success as well. Max Jardine remarked, "It felt great to score my first QMJHL goal tonight," underscoring how pivotal this victory was for team confidence moving forward. Hulton aims to continue this momentum as they prepare for upcoming games, energized by their recent performance.
With this win, the Islanders not only solidified their competitiveness this season but also evened up their series against the Sea Dogs at three wins apiece as they gear up for the challenges to come.