Gold Kings Come Up Empty on Their Sasquatch Hunting Trip as Sasquatch Pull Out Last Second Victory

Gold Kings Come Up Empty on Their Sasquatch Hunting Trip as Sasquatch Pull Out Last Second Victory

December 14, 2024

Salem, NH at Salem Icenter

Boston Gold Kings at Salem Sasquatch

Salem, NH- December 14, 2024- In a back-and-forth battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Salem Sasquatch defeated the Boston Gold Kings 4-3 in a thrilling game that came down to the final seconds. The contest, filled with momentum shifts and clutch plays, saw both teams battle not only for the win but for supremacy in a game full of fast-paced, hard-hitting hockey.

The action began fast and furious in the first period when Cody Woodward (#66) opened the scoring for the Sasquatch just 1:23 into the game. Woodward's goal, which came at even strength, was assisted by Kellen Gelinas (#19) and Gage Doucette (#38), giving Salem a quick 1-0 lead. The rest of the first would be back and forth with only great goaltending from Keegan McLaughlin and Chris Baker.

Boston came out of the gates strong in the second period. At 15:20, Nick Pitarys (#48) scored an unassisted goal to pull the Gold Kings even at 1-1. However, just minutes later, Salem regained the lead thanks to a beautiful passing play. Andrew Contrada (#9) capitalized on a setup from Woodward at 9:26, giving the Sasquatch a 2-1 lead. Salem wasn’t done yet. At 7:25, the Sasquatch struck again as Luke Plumley (#47) found the back of the net with an assist from Gaetano DeLonge (#81), making it 3-1. The Gold Kings responded with a timely goal of their own at 3:36 of the second period when Justin Freedman (#63) scored, narrowing the gap to 3-2. The goal, which came at even strength, was assisted by Ryan Drizen (#13).

The third period featured more high drama. Spencer Smith (#12) of the Gold Kings found the equalizer in the first minute of the third, with an assist from Shawn Savela (#8). The goal tied the game at 3-3, and it seemed like overtime might be in the cards. In the dying seconds of the game, the Sasquatch had the final word. With only 24 seconds left on the clock, Tucker Twardosky (#71) pounced on a loose puck and fired a shot that got deflected on its way in and went past Kyle Mahan (#92) to give Salem a dramatic 4-3 lead. The goal came unassisted, and despite a last-minute push from Boston, the Sasquatch held on for the win.

Both teams received solid goaltending performances in this high-paced contest. Keegan McLaughlin (#31) of the Sasquatch was steady between the pipes, making 26 saves on 29 shots for a 0.897 save percentage. McLaughlin was tested multiple times, particularly in the first and second periods, but he stood tall when his team needed him most.

Boston’s goaltending was a bit of a two-man effort. Chris Baker (#32) started the game, stopping 11 of 14 shots for a 0.786 save percentage. He was replaced by Kyle Mahan (#92) in the second period, who was impressive in relief, stopping 14 of 15 shots.

Key Players and Standouts

• Cody Woodward (#66) of Salem was instrumental in the victory, not only scoring the opening goal but also contributing an assist on Contrada's goal, helping set up the Sasquatch for success.

• Andrew Contrada (#9) and Luke Plumley (#47) were crucial in the second period, scoring two of the Sasquatch’s three goals to give their team a lead that they would fight hard to defend.

• Spencer Smith (#12) and Justin Freedman (#63) were among Boston’s best players, with both contributing important goals to keep the Gold Kings in the game.

Looking Ahead

Both teams are back on the ice on 12/21. Salem will look to add to its 3-game win streak against the Norfolk Mallards who are coming off their first win of the season. Boston will hit the road to play the Holyoke Papermen where both teams will look to get back in the win column.