This past weekend the
Ravens opened their semi-final series against a very powerful Woolwich Wildcats
team.
Having travelled the lovely 401 once more to amazing Elmira the Ravens looked to shake off their car legs and come out attacking. Essex would score halfway through the first period on a nifty backhander by Caleb Cavanagh. Midway through the second period Ethan “Ricky Bobby” O’Neil would roof a shot from the slot to put Essex up 2-0. In the first minute of the third Woolwich would have a breakaway thwarted by Reed VanderVecht and moments later the Ravens would score on a goal by Braeden Cavanagh. The defensive core of Cole Grant, Hudson Diemer, Ben Fuerth, Cade Smith, Mason Ginter and Jesse Chadwick would dominate this game, holding the blue line and preventing scoring chances. Final score 3-0 Essex
After enjoying an amazing stay and amazing breakfast at the hotel the kids headed to the rink looking to go up two games to none in the series. Woolwich was playing much better in this one early as the Ravens came out sluggish, perhaps one too many pancakes. Woolwich opened the scoring and it remained 1-0 through two periods. Early in the third the Ravens began to find their stride and would even it up at one goal apiece on a goal from Sean Wilson from a tough angle. Minutes later Woolwich would once again take a one goal lead only to be answered by the Ravens on a blueline blast from Ben Fuerth. After no further scoring in the third period this one was going to overtime. The Ravens would apply strong pressure in overtime with a few shots sliding barely past the outside of the post. Unfortunately Woolwich would sneak one in for the game winner. Final score 3-2.
The Ravens know they are in a battle in this one with game 3 this Friday at 6pm in Essex and game 4 on Saturday at 2:30pm also in Essex. Be sure to come out and cheer this amazing Essex team to victory!