South Stormont Mustangs Triumph 4-2 Over Pontiac Comets in Thrilling Matchup!

In an exhilarating showdown, the South Stormont Mustangs clinched a 4-2 victory against the Pontiac Comets, fending off a late comeback attempt from their opponents.

The Mustangs initially took command, leading 2-0 after the first period. However, the Comets rallied back in the second with Darcy Findlay scoring to level the game at 2-2, leaving the outcome in the balance. The turning point came six minutes into the third period, when Mustangs' towering forward Alexandre Renaud displayed his prowess by scoring the go-ahead goal with a deft backhand shot while positioned right in front of Comets' goaltender, Danick Boisvert.

A standout performance by Mustangs' goalie Cory Garrow was crucial in maintaining their lead. Garrow showcased exceptional skill in the third period, stopping all 12 shots from the Comets and preserving his team's advantage. "We don’t see the Comets often during the season, so we had to adjust our strategy," said Garrow, highlighting the importance of adapting to the challenge posed by Pontiac.

As South Stormont competes in the Seaway division and Pontiac in the Capital division, the contest was not only significant for points but also an enticing matchup between teams with contrasting styles. Garrow acknowledged the Comets' relentless effort and fast-paced game, noting that their consistent pressure created opportunities that could have easily changed the game.

The intensity escalated as the match progressed, with the Comets facing a total of nine penalties in the last 20 minutes, compared to just four for the Mustangs. Capitalizing on their advantage, Mustangs' Marc Beckstead added an important power-play goal with just over four minutes left, solidifying their lead.

Tensions on the ice boiled over into skirmishes, including a notable altercation involving Stangs forward Yanick Lalonde and Pontiac's Kevin Auger, which resulted in Auger receiving two match penalties.

Despite his remarkable .955 save percentage, Garrow humorously lamented not being named one of the game’s three stars, quipping, “Maybe I’ll have to score a goal next time!” His determination only intensified after the team traded co-No. 1 goalie John Gilmer to the Gananoque Islanders, paving the way for Garrow to embrace the primary goaltending role alongside teammate Levi Mitchell.

Looking ahead, the Mustangs remain firmly in second place in their division and will aim to close in on the North Dundas Rockets in an upcoming clash on December 7. "We’re definitely gunning for first place," Garrow asserted, understanding the pivotal role of home ice advantage in the playoffs.

Fans can look forward to an electrifying season as South Stormont strives to forge ahead in their quest for the championship!