In Cal Petersen’s first game with Ontario since being reassigned to the AHL a few days ago, he stopped 27 of 28 en route to securing a 3-1 victory over the visiting Colorado Eagles.
The 28-year-old netminder is looking to get his game back on track after a disappointing start to the 2022-23 campaign and — at least based on the first game — seems to be headed in the right direction. A rare Iowa native in pro hockey, Petersen made several key stops in Friday’s victory, especially in the third period. One specific highlight came when he denied a short-handed breakaway chance for Colorado with a sprawling stop. Peterson went on to be named the first star of the game, as well.
Second-year defenseman Jordan Spence led the way offensively for Ontario, collecting a goal and an assist.
His goal came on the power play just nine minutes into the game, putting Ontario up 1-0 early. The 21-year-old blasted a shot from the point past Eagles netminder Jonas Johannson. However, just over a minute later, Colorado knotted the game at one apiece when Ben Meyers was able to get the puck past a screened Petersen.
Later, Taylor Ward’s fourth goal of the season gave Ontario the lead back on a wrister from the high slot. Then, in the final minute of the opening frame, Reign forward Alan Quine scored on a deflection, with the initial shot coming from Tobie Bisson.
No one on either side was able to find the back of the net over the next 40 minutes of play, ultimately resulting in a 3-1 win for Ontario.
Quinton Byfield and Andre Lee have been very good tonight. Especially from about the 12 minute mark on.
About 8 minutes remaining in regulation. Reign still lead 3-1.
— The Mayor | Team MM (@mayorNHL) December 3, 2022
Although Quinton Byfield did not register a point in Ontario’s victory, he is still progressing aggressively toward being recalled. In several facets of the game, Byfield is showing improvement – including puck protection and in the defensive zone.
Ontario was able to cash in twice on seven (!) of their man-advantage opportunities, granted one of those came in the dying minutes when the Reign just tried to bleed out the clock. Coach Marco Sturm’s penalty kill was perfect once again, as the Reign shut down all three Eagles power plays.
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Ontario Reign Projected Lineup vs. Colorado Eagles; Come See Cal
Lead photo via Daniel Stopani
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