WESTVILLE ROAD –
It’s getting real, as the kids say.
With playoffs inching closer, the Junior A Crushers picked up a huge two points on Thursday, coming back from a third-period deficit to earn a 3-2 shootout win over the Amherst Ramblers.
“Every game we can get points out of is definitely a huge thing coming down to our last stretch of the season,” Crushers’ captain Evan MacLennan said.
“So, getting two points out of Amherst (Thursday) was great.”
With the Ramblers leading 2-1 at the Pictou County Wellness Centre, MacLennan tied the game midway through the third period when he cut hard to the net and slipped the puck past Amherst netminder Matt Williams.
The Crushers, who are holding on to the final playoff spot in the MHL South, moved four points ahead of the South Shore Lumberjacks – South Shore has two games in hand and play the Yarmouth Mariners on Friday night. Pictou County also moved to within three points of the Truro Bearcats, who also play Friday against the Summerside Western Capitals.
Crushers goaltender Andrew MacLeod was named the game’s first star against Amherst; he made 32 saves, and stoned all three Ramblers in the shootout.
Sam Meisenheimer had the only shootout goal. In six games since joining the Crushers via the Jacob Hickey/Dylan Riley trade, Meisenheimer has made an impact, with four goals and three assists.
“Sam’s goal in the shootout was just another big lift of energy, getting the lead in the shootout early was huge for us,” said MacLennan.
Ryan MacLennan had a first-period goal for Pictou County (19-15-7), while Alex Lafreniere and Caleb Rich scored for Amherst (29-11-3).
The two teams meet again Saturday at Amherst Stadium, and the Crushers play Monday at home against the Mariners, a game with an early start (5:30 p.m.)
