Game of the Week: North York Renegades vs. Bradford Rattlers
Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024 – Gale Centre, Niagara Falls, ON

The North York Renegades emerged victorious in a thrilling 6-5 shootout win over the reigning back-to-back Russell Cup Champion Bradford Rattlers, kicking off Day 1 of the annual GMHL Showcase with a game for the ages. This showdown between two powerhouses saw dynamic scoring, standout goaltending, and high-stakes drama, living up to the expectations surrounding these top-tier teams. The Renegades, the South Division’s most consistent regular-season team for the past three years, delivered a gritty performance to edge out the champions.

Game Summary

First Period

Bradford came out strong, with Oliver Lindqvist opening the scoring at 1:44, assisted by Brendon Wolesky. North York responded late in the period when Val Johnston capitalized on a setup by Eric Stephenson and Austin Roberts at 16:29. The Rattlers controlled the pace, outshooting the Renegades 21-6, but stellar goaltending from Artemii Gaidukov kept the game tied at 1-1.

Second Period

The Renegades gained momentum in the second frame, starting with a stunning unassisted goal by Bryson Tillekeratne at 4:56. Bradford retaliated with back-to-back goals: Magomed-Bashir Maisigov tied the game at 10:05, assisted by Shamil Lutfullin and Pavel Tuniy, and Isac Karlsson gave the Rattlers the lead at 11:17. North York answered quickly with Maximus Marek Tortorella’s power play goal at 11:41, assisted by Evan Gupta. Johnston struck again at 13:35 to put North York ahead, but the Rattlers responded through Wolesky’s tally at 16:08. The period ended 4-4, with both teams trading chances in an evenly matched battle.

Third Period

North York regained the lead early in the third when Gunnar Popek scored at 1:22, assisted by Christopher Mischenko and Austin Roberts. Bradford’s relentless pressure paid off at 9:05 as Artyom Borisov tied the game once more, set up by Matvei Munits and Wolesky. Both teams pressed for the winner in regulation, but Gaidukov and Bradford’s Zack Thomsson stood tall, sending the game to overtime.

Overtime and Shootout

After a scoreless overtime, the game was decided in a shootout. The drama extended to the fifth round, where Eric Stephenson stepped up and buried the decisive goal, securing the 6-5 victory for North York.

Goaltending Battle

Artemii Gaidukov was the backbone for North York, stopping 51 of 56 shots and earning a .911 save percentage. His performance in overtime and the shootout solidified his first-star honors. Bradford’s Zack Thomsson faced 26 shots, making 20 saves, but his effort in the shootout came up just short.

Key Performances

• Artemii Gaidukov (North York): Made 51 saves and was clutch in the shootout, helping secure the win.
• Eric Stephenson (North York): Delivered the shootout game-winner and added an assist in regulation.
• Brendon Wolesky (Bradford): Led his team offensively with a goal and two assists.
• Val Johnston (North York): Netted two goals, providing key contributions to the Renegades’ offense.

Implications

This shootout win is a significant statement for North York at the GMHL Showcase. Beating the two-time defending champions demonstrates their ability to perform under pressure and adds momentum to their campaign. For Bradford, the loss highlights their depth and resiliency, but also the need for defensive tightening in high-scoring affairs.