The Inlet Raiders nearly got their revenge last Saturday night at the Sunshine Coast Arena.
After taking it on the chin last year to the tune of 10-3, the Raiders fought hard, dropping a 4-3-overtime decision to the North Shore Canadians in a special Hockey Night at the arena.
Bob Knight, Dave Starnes and Tom Poulton scored for the Raiders.
Kelly Cousins chipped in with two helpers while Bill Stockwell and Jared Ruttley added solo assists. Drew Martin scored a pair, including the OT winner for the Canadians. John Gilby and Andre Legace scored other North Shore goals.
After the game, Martin said he was thrilled to score the goal that give his squad the win.
"I had very little left in the tank in OT, but I decided to give it one last rush down the left-hand side," Martin said. "I pulled the puck inside on the defenceman and let a wrist shot fly, and the puck found the twine just inside the right post. I got a bit of a break because I think the goalie stumbled coming across."
The special challenge game was the main attraction at the arena, which also featured a game between the Gibsons and Sechelt fire departments and a party in the arena lounge with rocking tunes from Walter Ego.
Poulton, who organized the event, said he was pleased with the turnout.
"The game went well and I think the crowd had a good time," Poulton said. "Between the arena seating and upstairs in the lounge, we probably had between 150 and 200 people. Our game was competitive, and it also helped having the Canucks beating St. Louis on the big screen."
North Shore goalie Glen Edwards said the Canadians were taken aback by the hospitality they were treated to.
"Our team was overwhelmed by Tom's effort in organizing the match-up and post-game activities," Edwards said. "We owe him and the Raiders' team a big thanks. They're a good bunch of guys. This was our third trip to Sechelt and we look forward to it each year."
