The Kitchener Rangers are moving on to the second round of the OHL playoffs after defeating the Flint Firebirds 2-1 on Friday night, clinching the series 4-1.
The game began with Tanner Lam giving the Rangers an early lead, scoring just six minutes into the action. However, Flint responded before the period ended, as Alex Kostov tied the game, sending both teams into the first intermission at 1-1.
The second period proved to be the decisive one, as Christian Humphreys scored what would turn out to be the game-winning goal just a minute into the period, giving the Rangers a 2-1 lead they would not relinquish.
Kitchener’s penalty kill played a key role in the win, successfully fending off all five of Flint’s power-play opportunities. This included a five-minute major penalty for slew-footing assessed to Luke Ellinas, a crucial moment in the game. Rangers’ goaltender Jackson Parsons was outstanding between the pipes, stopping 24 of 25 shots and earning first-star honors for his efforts.
Paul Fixter, the colour commentator for 570, described the series as a hard-fought battle, with what he termed “brutal play” from both teams. “Flint deserves credit for their determination,” Fixter said. “But Kitchener ultimately found a way to finish the job, especially in front of a roaring crowd of 7,000 fans at home.”
Looking ahead, the Rangers will face the Windsor Spitfires in the next round, who finished second in the Western Conference and also advanced after a 4-1 series win over the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds.
Fans can expect updates on the upcoming schedule and ticket information later this week.
