Uxbridge Bruins extend record winning streak as local PJHL teams sweep weekend

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

It was another strong weekend for local Provincial Junior Hockey League teams, highlighted by the Uxbridge Bruins extending their franchise-record winning streak to 13 games with a 9-2 thrashing of the Caledon Golden Hawks on Friday, October 31. 

The Bruins wasted no time setting the tone, scoring five unanswered goals in the first period. Jordan Fitger opened the scoring just 15 seconds into the game and added another goal later in the frame, while Tucker Roberts and Cameron Meek each had a goal and multiple assists in the offensive outburst. Jack Kemp, Trent Nobes, Liam Peterson, Tanner Ryan, and Nolan Winter also found the back of the net for Uxbridge, who continue to roll through the early portion of the PJHL Orr Division schedule. 

Assistant coach Jon Campbell said the group’s chemistry and work ethic have been key to the team’s record-setting start. “We’ve got contributions coming from every line right now,” Campbell said. “The guys are playing for each other, and the energy in that room is something special. It’s been a fun group to coach.”

Two nights later, the Little Britain Merchants roared back in the third period to defeat Caledon 5-1 on the road Sunday, November 2. After trailing 1-0 through 40 minutes, the Merchants scored five unanswered goals in the final frame. Mackenzie Fullerton tied the game early on the power play before Tyler Johnston, Matt Godden, and Nathan Wanamaker each added goals to put the game out of reach. Wanamaker’s first of the season came late in the period, and Nathaniel Dugwell sealed the victory with an empty-netter. Everitt Corneil picked up two assists in the win as Little Britain continues to find its stride. 

Meanwhile, the Port Perry LumberJacks treated fans at Scugog Arena to a 6-2 victory over the Clarington Eagles on Sunday afternoon. After giving up an early goal, Port Perry responded with six straight tallies, including two from forward Johannes Kalm. Zachary Caron, Kyle Den Ouden, Jacob Sharpe, and Andrew Naccarato-Soule also scored, with Naccarato-Soule adding two assists for a three-point outing. Austin Fata recorded two helpers as the LumberJacks’ power play went three-for-three in the win. 

The Bruins now head to Schomberg on Thursday before returning to the Bear Den on Friday, November 7, to take on the Georgina Ice at 7:45 p.m. The Merchants host the Clarington Eagles on Saturday night at 7:30 p.m., and the LumberJacks will welcome the Merchants to Scugog Arena on Sunday, November 9, at 2:25 p.m.