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The Northern Maine Pioneers closed out their inaugural season with a demanding week on the road, facing the New England Wolves, Woodstock Slammers, and St. Stephen County Moose.
The week began Tuesday against the New England Wolves, who established early momentum with three first-period goals. The Pioneers responded at the 7:16 mark when #19 O. Eckdahl set up #26 G. Eckdahl for a shot, and #18 Jarvis capitalized on the rebound to cut the deficit to 3-1 heading into the intermission. In the second period, the Wolves extended their lead, but the Pioneers answered when Jarvis found O. Eckdahl, who connected with #6 Huyber for the team’s second goal. The Wolves added two more goals before the end of the period, taking a 6-2 lead into the third. The final frame remained scoreless. Goaltender Murat Shiyanov recorded 26 saves on 32 shots.
The Pioneers returned to Wolves territory on Wednesday for a rematch. A tightly contested first period saw the Wolves score the lone goal midway through. They continued to build on their lead with two goals in the second and three in the third, resulting in a 6-0 final. Despite the outcome, the Pioneers maintained a consistent effort throughout. Shiyanov was once again in net, turning aside 33 of 39 shots.
On Friday, the team traveled to Woodstock to face the Slammers. Both teams were held scoreless through the first period and into the early stages of the second before Woodstock broke through with two quick goals. The Pioneers pushed offensively in the third period but were unable to find the back of the net, falling 4-0. Goaltender Kolari posted a .897 save percentage.
Saturday’s rematch at the AYR Motor Centre featured another closely contested battle. Strong defensive play on both sides kept the game scoreless until late in the second period, when the Slammers scored with under three minutes remaining. The Pioneers continued to apply pressure in the third period, but Woodstock added an insurance goal with 4:18 left to secure a 2-0 victory. Shiyanov delivered a standout performance in goal with a .956 save percentage.
Following a late schedule adjustment, the Pioneers traveled to St. Stephen County for their final game of the season against the Moose. After a scoreless first period, the Pioneers broke through in the second when #12 Culbertson set up #24 Hughes, who connected with #20 Strandberg to give the team a 1-0 lead. The Moose responded in the third period to tie the game and force overtime. After a scoreless extra frame, the game moved to a shootout. #13 Ward recorded the lone shootout goal for the Pioneers, but the Moose converted twice to secure the win.
The Pioneers conclude their first season demonstrating resilience, competitiveness, and continued growth, laying a strong foundation for the future of the organization.