GMHL Game of the Week: Tottenham vs. Northumberland Recap
Friday, November 8th, 2024 – Keeler Centre, Colborne, Ontario

In a pivotal matchup for both teams, the Northumberland Stars edged the Tottenham Railers 6-5 in a dramatic overtime finish at the Keeler Centre. With critical implications for divisional standings and league showcase seedings, this was far more than just another regular-season game—it was a statement battle for both sides.

A Crucial Clash

For Tottenham, this game represented an opportunity to prove they can compete with the South Division’s top teams. The Railers, who now sit at 10-7-1 after following this game with a win over the Niagara Predators, have shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season. Their captain, Xavier Charbonneau, has been a standout player, leading the league in goals (23) and tied for the lead in points (42).

For Northumberland, this game carried even greater weight as they approached the 16-game mark that determines seeding for the league showcase. Now 8-3-2 following an overtime loss to the St. George Ravens two days later, the Stars secured a crucial two points in their push for one of the top two seeds. Thomas Johnston, currently 3rd in the league in scoring with 34 points and tied for 2nd in assists with 22, continued to play a pivotal role for the team.

Game Summary

First Period: Northumberland Sets the Tone
The Stars struck first with Owen Brady opening the scoring on a power play at 9:04, assisted by Johnston and Matt Shulist. Just over a minute later, Shulist doubled the lead with a goal of his own, with Brady and Jayden Allen providing the assists. Northumberland carried a 2-0 lead into the intermission despite being outshot 20-15, thanks in part to the stellar play of goaltender Brady Dyer.

Second Period: Tottenham Strikes Back
The Railers came out determined in the second period. Charbonneau ignited the comeback with a goal just 40 seconds in, assisted by Alexis Paradis. Although Brady responded with his second goal of the game on a power play, Tottenham’s persistence paid off with two consecutive goals from Malik Thibeault-Boisvert and Bruno Parente, tying the game at 3-3. Tottenham’s offensive pressure saw them once again outshoot Northumberland, this time 15-10.

Third Period: Momentum Swings
Tottenham claimed their first lead of the game early in the third period, with Paradis converting on a power play just 1:26 in. Northumberland responded at 14:14 when Ross Maycock tied the game, assisted by Brendan Collins and Johnston. Although Rafael Lemieux restored Tottenham’s lead moments later, Owen Brady completed his hat trick with a dramatic game-tying goal at 19:14, sending the game to overtime.

Overtime: Brady Delivers Again
The extra frame was a tense affair, with both teams trading chances. As the clock ticked down, it was Owen Brady who sealed the victory for Northumberland, scoring in the shootout to complete a spectacular four-goal performance and secure the win.

Key Performances

• Owen Brady (Northumberland): Brady was the undeniable star of the night, tallying four goals and an assist, including the decisive shootout winner.
• Brady Dyer (Northumberland): Dyer faced a relentless barrage of 48 shots, making 43 saves to help his team earn two crucial points.
• Matt Shulist (Northumberland): Shulist contributed a goal and two assists, showcasing his playmaking ability and adding depth to Northumberland’s offense.
• Xavier Charbonneau (Tottenham): The Railers’ captain extended his league-leading goal tally with a clutch power-play marker, keeping his team competitive throughout.

Looking Ahead

Both teams leave this game with much to build on. Tottenham demonstrated their ability to challenge top teams, showcasing an offensive depth spearheaded by Charbonneau. Meanwhile, Northumberland solidified their case as a showcase contender, relying on standout performances from Brady, Johnston, and Dyer.

This game served as a reminder of the excitement and intensity the GMHL delivers week after week. With both teams continuing to fight for higher standings and playoff positioning, fans can expect more fireworks as the season unfolds.