KOMOKA, ON — The Dorchester Dragons hit the road and hit their stride on Saturday night, skating to a decisive 5–1 victory over the Ilderton Jets in a game defined by structure, speed, and a standout defensive performance.
(Photo: A celebrating Dorchester Dragons team surrounds their goalie after winning their season opener on the road)
While the scoreboard will reflect a dominant offensive showing, it was the Dragons’ defensive corps that quietly set the tone early and never let up. Xavier Papel, Rowan Kusters, Caleb Mitchell, Callum Lampkin, Ethan Lobb, and Ben Evans anchored a steady blue line that frustrated the Jets’ attack, disrupted transitions, and wore down the home team with relentless pressure and smart positioning.
“Our defense was just outstanding tonight,” said Dragons Head Coach Mike Gardner. “They made it really tough for Ilderton to generate any sustained momentum. That effort made a huge difference.”
Gardner emphasized the team’s focus this year on strong two-way play, and the results were evident across the lineup. In fact, 12 of 15 Dragons skaters posted a positive rating, with no players in the negative—an impressive stat in a game that featured high tempo and physicality. Leading the way in the plus-minus column were forwards Quinn Fournier and Dexter Hacche, each finishing the night at +4.
First Period: Setting the Tone
The Dragons opened the scoring early in the first when Benjamin Pink powered to the net and finished a strong individual effort at 3:33, assisted by the ever-reliable Fournier. The early tally gave Dorchester a boost of confidence and allowed them to settle into their game plan.
Second Period: Dragons flying higher than Jets
Dorchester turned up the heat in the second, with Everett Elliott extending the lead on a smooth deke past the Jets’ goalie. The play was set up by a slick pass from newcomer Harrison Austin, who continues to find his groove in Dragons colours.
The highlight of the night, however, belonged to centre Cameron Gardner. The young pivot exploded for a natural hat trick in just 32 electrifying seconds, effectively putting the game out of reach. Fournier and Hacche each picked up an assist during the flurry, further cementing their strong all-around games.
Third Period: Grit and Discipline
With a 5–0 lead going into the third, the Dragons were tested defensively, taking three penalties that put them on their heels. Lobb, Kusters, and Hacche each served time in the box, but the penalty kill units—along with steady goaltending from Trent Pietarinen—stood tall until the final minutes, when Ilderton finally broke through to spoil the shutout.
Even with the late goal, Coach Gardner was pleased with the composure shown. “It’s something we’ll continue to work on—staying out of the box in the third—but I thought our response was strong. Trent made some big stops, and our PK was very solid.”
For his grit, determination and unwavering attack the games hardest worker was awarded to defensive stand-out Xavier Papel. For his critical play on the 3rd period penalty kill Callum Lampkin was awarded the player of the game.
Looking Ahead
The Dragons will now prepare for their next road game against St. Mary’s, where they’ll look to avenge a narrow 3–2 pre-season loss to the Rock. With confidence running high and their commitment to team defense paying dividends, this Dragons team is heating up at just the right time.
Final Score: Dorchester Dragons 5, Ilderton Jets 1