Paxton Incredible In Game One Loss

Despite being the 8th seed in the Great Lakes Junior C playoffs, the Dresden Kings gave the Essex 73s all they could handle in game one of their opening round series. Dresden was able to stick with the 73s due to an incredible performance by netminder Brent Paxton, who stopped 64 of the 67 shots he faced.

Dresden took the 73s to overtime Tuesday on the road before Michael Popel scored to give Essex the win 15:44 into the extra frame. Popel’s goal made the final score 3-2 for Essex.

To open the game, Essex got out to a quick 2-0 lead. Alex Garon and Popel had first period goals, putting Essex squarely in control of the game. With Essex continuing to apply pressure, Paxton shut the door in the second period, allowing the Kings to regroup for the third.

In the third, Dresden fought back, getting goals from David Vergeer and Jeremy Griffore to knot the game and send it to overtime. The Kings couldn’t complete the comeback however, as Popel lifted Essex to the win.

In other Junior C action, Belle River edged Amherstburg 3-2 in game one of their series.

Wednesday will be a busy night in Junior C action as the Kings host Essex, Blenheim opens their series against Mooretown, and Alvinston will attempt to take a 2-0 series lead against Wheatley.