Canadians blank Express for 2nd straight game

ESPANOLA, Ont. – The Rayside-Balfour Canadians used a well-balanced attack, getting goals from six different skaters, to shutout the Espanola Express for a second straight game as they skated to a 6-0 victory Saturday in Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League action at the Regional Recreation Complex.

The visiting Canadians clicked twice in the first period in this one, grabbing a 2-0 lead on goals by James White at even strength and Brandon Atkins, via the power play.

Taylor Woolcott’s 13th added to the Rayside-Balfour cushion early in the second stanza to put them up by three after 40 minutes.

The visitors then put the game away in the final frame as Evan Krassey collected his 23rd tally of the campaign before Kyle Liinamaa and Jacob Partridge scored on the power play to finish off the scoring.

Ethan Lavallee and Matthew Neault dished out two assists apiece to aid the winner’s cause.

Brayden Lachance made 34 saves to post the shutout for the Canadians, who have now not allowed a goal against in 127 minutes and seven seconds of action.

Ryan Hale faced 48 shots in a losing cause for Espanola.