Win gives the team sole possession of eighth place

LAURIE WEIR

The Smiths Falls Jr. A Bears secured a crucial 6-2 victory over the Nepean Raiders in Central Canada Hockey League action Sunday afternoon, solidifying their hold on the eighth and final playoff spot.

The Bears dominated early, jumping out to a 3-0 lead in the first period with goals from Caeden Heins, Gus Rabe, and Kyle James. Nepean fought back with two in the second, but Smiths Falls answered with goals from Kyle Dagg and Tyson Parker to restore a three-goal cushion heading into the final frame. Chris Cardillo sealed the win with a third-period tally, while Ethan Morrow backstopped the victory in net.

James, Rabe, and Nepean goalie Jack Yates were named the game’s three stars.

With just six weeks left in the regular season, the Bears now sit two points out of fifth place, potentially setting up a first-round matchup with league-leading Rockland. Meanwhile, Kemptville, Pembroke, and Hawkesbury are battling for positioning, while Ottawa and Brockville remain in the hunt.

Smiths Falls has 14 games left, beginning with a home tilt against Brockville on Thursday, Feb. 6, at 8 p.m. They’ll then hit the road to face Hawkesbury on Friday, Feb. 7.