Listowel, Ont- The Listowel Cyclones welcomed long-time rivals, the Stratford Warriors, to the Steve Kerr Memorial Arena on Sunday afternoon for the latest chapter of the storied Battle of Perth County, featured as a Greater Ontario Hockey League (GOHL) Spotlight Game.
Before puck drop, the Cyclones organization once again demonstrated its commitment to community. On behalf of Cyclones goaltender Ethan Kowatsch and Their Opportunity, Cyclones staff were busy collecting hockey equipment throughout the game as part of an ongoing equipment drive aimed at helping young players access the game. Fans who were unable to contribute on Sunday will have another opportunity at the Cyclones’ next home game.
Adding to the special pre-game atmosphere, Listowel Minor Hockey’s U6 Red and Black teams took to the ice for a mini-game alongside several Cyclones players prior to puck drop. Players and families from both Listowel Minor Hockey and Wallace Minor Hockey were in attendance, creating a memorable experience for the next generation of local hockey talent.
Game Summary
Puck drop was set for 2:00 p.m., and the Warriors opened the scoring early in the first period. The Cyclones responded quickly, as defenceman Hudson Wiles fired a sharp snapshot from the blue line into the back of the net. Wiles’ goal was assisted by Ryan Cranny and Clark deBoer.
Stratford regained the lead with another marker, but Listowel answered once again on the power play. Jack O’Donnell capitalized with a timely goal, assisted by Ryan Cranny and Hudson Wiles. The Warriors would add one more before the end of the opening frame, sending the teams into the first intermission with Stratford holding a 3–2 advantage.
The second period proved challenging for the Cyclones, as Stratford found the net three times to extend their lead.
In the third period, the Warriors added one more goal before Ryan Cranny closed out the scoring for Listowel, finishing a play set up by Clark deBoer and Ethan Fischer. Despite the late push, the Cyclones fell by a final score of 7–3.
Ethan Kowatsch was solid between the pipes for Listowel, turning aside 23 shots. The Steve Kerr Memorial Arena was filled with energy, welcoming a packed crowd of 615 fans for the rivalry matchup.
Up Next
The Cyclones return to action on Wednesday as they travel to London to face the Nationals at the Western Fair District Sports Centre. Listowel will then return home on Friday night to host the Chatham Maroons, with puck drop scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at the Steve Kerr Memorial Arena.
Friday’s home game will also serve as the final opportunity for fans to participate in the hockey equipment drive, continuing the Cyclones’ commitment to supporting youth hockey in the community.
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