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GMHL

The Greater Metro Jr. A Hockey League

GMHL Game of the Week: January 6 - 12 2025

 January 15th, 2025 at 3:07AM  January 15th, 2025 9:10AM

Game of the Week: Bradford Rattlers vs. Meaford Knights
Sunday, January 12th, 2025 – BWG Leisure Centre, Bradford, ON

The Bradford Rattlers edged the Meaford Knights 5-4 in a thrilling contest, extending their league-high winning streak to seven games. Despite playing their third game in as many nights—and a fourth in four days for eight All-Star players—the Rattlers showed remarkable resilience. Isac Karlsson’s shorthanded tally in the third period sealed the victory, setting the stage for an exciting matchup next Sunday against the second-place Wasaga River Dragons. Meanwhile, Meaford’s determined performance highlighted their progress as they continue their climb in the North Division standings.


Game Summary

First Period

The Rattlers came out flying, dominating the opening frame with 24 shots. Tomas Lucenius opened the scoring at 12:19, assisted by Magomed-Bashir Maisigov and Artyom Borisov. Brendon Wolesky doubled Bradford’s lead at 18:12, with Nathan Dixon providing the helper. Despite being outshot 24-3, Meaford managed to hold the game within reach thanks to stellar goaltending by Karim Agzamov.

Second Period

Bradford extended their lead early in the second as Filip Sjolander scored at 3:33, assisted by Nikita Pavlenko and Stian Laasby. Meaford responded with a pair of goals, starting with Rene Gnap at 10:49, followed by Kevin Demeules at 19:02. The Rattlers quickly regained momentum, with Anrijs Bundzenieks finding the net at 19:16. However, Meaford answered again just seconds later when Colin McNally scored at 19:35 to make it a one-goal game heading into the final frame.

Third Period

Bradford killed an early penalty in the third, and Karlsson delivered a crucial shorthanded goal at 3:32 to restore the two-goal cushion. Meaford pressed hard, outshooting the Rattlers 14-11, and Demeules struck again at 19:22 to bring the Knights within one. Despite the late surge, Bradford held on for the win.


Goaltending Battle

Bradford’s Zack Thomsson made 21 saves on 25 shots, backstopping his team to another win in their impressive streak. Meaford’s Karim Agzamov was outstanding in a losing effort, turning aside 45 of 50 shots, earning first-star honors for his valiant performance under relentless pressure.


Key Performances

  • Isac Karlsson (Bradford): Notched a goal and an assist, including the game-winning shorthanded goal.
  • Kevin Demeules (Meaford): Scored twice, keeping the Knights within striking distance throughout the game.
  • Tomas Lucenius (Bradford): Opened the scoring with a first-period goal that set the tone for the Rattlers’ victory.
  • Karim Agzamov (Meaford): Delivered a heroic 45-save performance, giving the Knights a chance to win.

Implications and Whats Next

Bradford’s seventh consecutive win, the longest streak in the league, solidifies their status as a top contender in the North Division. With a highly anticipated matchup against the second-place Wasaga River Dragons looming, a game with significant implications for North Division supremacy and the first post trade deadline game between the two.the Rattlers are poised to test their mettle further. Meaford, currently in fifth place, will aim to rebound in a critical game against the same River Dragons on Thursday as they continue their push toward the division’s third spot.Both teams are entering pivotal stretches in their seasons, promising plenty of excitement for GMHL fans.

 

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