McCoys Fall Short Despite Strong Effort in 4-2 Loss

Photo courtesy of Paul Wright

The Dundas Real McCoys delivered one of their most determined performances of the season Thursday night at Harry Howell Arena but came up just short in a hard-fought 4-2 defeat to the Wentworth Gryphons.

After Wentworth opened the scoring late in the first period, Ralph Taggart provided an immediate response for Dundas, evening the score at one with just over a minute remaining in the frame. The tie was short-lived, however, as the Gryphins reclaimed the lead just 59 seconds into the second period.

The middle frame showcased exceptional goaltending at both ends, with Ryan DeMelo standing tall for the McCoys while Wentworth's Matthew Camilleri matched him save for save. Both netminders turned aside numerous quality chances as the teams battled through a tightly contested second period.

Dundas refused to quit in the third. Mackenzie Wood's timely goal with 3:31 remaining in regulation knotted the game at two and energized the McCoys' push for the win. Unfortunately, a cross-checking penalty moments later proved costly, as Wentworth capitalized on the power play opportunity with 100 seconds left on the clock. The Gryphins added an empty-net marker to close out the scoring.

Justin DaSilva would end the game with two assists, leading all McCoys skaters for points in the contest.

DeMelo was solid in the loss, turning away 39 of 42 shots faced while keeping his team in the game throughout.

Next Up: The McCoys return home Friday night to host the Stoney Creek Tigers at J.L. Grightmire Arena. Puck drop is set for 7:30pm.