Kitchener Rangers Win OT Thriller Against London Knights 3-2

UPDATE: In a thrilling overtime finish, the Kitchener Rangers edged the London Knights 3-2 on October 19 at Canada Life Place, marking a pivotal moment in their ongoing OHL rivalry. Just 44 seconds into overtime, Jakub Chromiak delivered the decisive goal, securing the Rangers’ victory after a heated back-and-forth matchup.

The Knights, now 3-3 in overtime this season, have faced more overtime games than any other team in the league, having gone to OT in six of their first ten contests. This latest win creates a split in the rivalry week series, following London’s dominant 6-1 victory over Kitchener just two days prior on October 17.

In the first period, the Rangers took an early lead when Kaden Schneider scored his first career OHL goal at 15:23, firing a shot through a crowded London zone to put Kitchener ahead 1-0. However, the Knights bounced back with a goal from Henry Brzustewicz at 11:44 of the second period, tying the game with a slap shot that slipped past Kitchener goalie Christian Kirsch.

The Knights seized the lead in the third period when Kaeden Hawkins deflected a shot into the net, bringing the score to 2-1. But Kitchener quickly responded with a goal from Weston Cameron just 59 seconds later, leveling the score at 2-2 and forcing the game into overtime.

The overtime period saw Kitchener’s Kirsch showcasing his skills with key saves, before Chromiak’s game-winner sent the home crowd into a frenzy. The Rangers outshot the Knights 29-23 throughout the game, while London dominated the faceoff circle, winning 40 of 62 faceoffs.

The longstanding rivalry has historically favored the Knights, who have a record of 21-5-5 in the last 31 regular-season matchups. They also hold the edge in playoff series, winning 8 out of 10 against Kitchener since the 2004-05 season.

Looking ahead, the Knights will be challenged by the formidable Ottawa 67’s at 7 p.m. on October 24 at Canada Life Place. Ottawa, boasting two of the league’s standout rookies, has started the season strong, remaining one of the last teams to lose in regulation. Coverage of the game will begin at 6:30 p.m. on 980 CFPL and through the iHeart Radio and Radioplayer Canada apps.

This victory not only heightens the stakes in the OHL but also resonates with fans, as the rivalry continues to intensify. Stay tuned for more updates as the season progresses!