In the third game of the intense 5-game series between St. Charles and Loellen, the stakes were high as Loellen entered the game with a 2-0 series lead. The matchup didn't disappoint, with both teams showing determination from the start. Loellen struck first in the 1st period when Jacob Barney found the net at final minutes of the period, assisted by Ethan Burton, capitalizing on St. Charles' Jaden Shawana receiving a penalty for hooking mid period, ending 1-0 in their favor.
The 2nd period saw penalties on both sides, with Loellen's Ty Campeau and St. Charles' Easton-Corbin Stanley serving time in the box. Despite being down a player, St. Charles managed to equalize at 1-1 with a goal from Jacob Hayes, assisted by Tyler Thibodeau halfway in the 2nd period. The period ended tied, setting the stage for an intense final period.
Entering the 3rd period, the tension was palpable. Loellen faced penalty trouble with Cale Prpic sent to the box for hooking very early on, giving St. Charles a crucial power play. St. Charles capitalized, with Jaden Shawana scoring with 5 minutes left in the game, assisted by Hayden Myre, taking the lead.
But Loellen fought back, and in the last seconds at 00:02, Sam Levecque tied the game once again at 2-2, sending the crowd into a frenzy. With regulation ending in a tie, a shootout was needed to determine the winner.
In the shootout, Loellen's Jayden Ceming was denied by St. Charles' goalie Declan McNamara. St. Charles' Tyler Thibodeau then scored, putting St. Charles ahead. Loellen's Matti Joupi was unable to convert his shot, and the game rested on St. Charles' Jacob Hayes, who delivered with a goal, securing the victory.
With this thrilling win, St. Charles closed the series gap to 2-1, extending the series and keeping their championship hopes alive. The upcoming Game 4 promises to be another intense matchup as both teams continue their quest for victory. Game 4 is set for tomorrow, Wednesday, February 28, at TM Davies Arena at 8:30 pm. Fans can expect more excitement as the series unfolds.