In a thrilling encounter at the Milton Keynes Arena on November 25, 2023, the Milton Keynes Lightning emerged victorious over the Raiders with a final score of 5-4. The game was a showcase of skill, strategy, and occasional physicality, keeping the fans on the edge of their seats throughout.
First Period
The first period set the tone for the game, with the Lightning taking the lead. James Griffin, assisted by Rory Herrman, scored the opening goal at 6:57, demonstrating excellent teamwork and precision.
Score at the end of the First Period: Milton Keynes Lightning 1, Raiders 0
Second Period
The Lightning extended their lead in the second period. Dillon Lawrence, with assists from Rory Herrman and James Griffin, found the net at 20:36. Shortly thereafter, Rory Herrman scored a goal of his own at 24:36, assisted by Dillon Lawrence, solidifying the Lightning’s dominance.
Score at the end of the Second Period: Milton Keynes Lightning 3, Raiders 0
Third Period
The final period saw a dramatic shift in momentum. The Raiders mounted a strong comeback, with Riley MacRae and Aaron Connolly leading the charge. They scored at 46:53 (powerplay) and 48:19, respectively. However, the Lightning responded fiercely with Ross Venus and Corey McEwen scoring short-handed goals at 57:39 and 57:48. The Raiders continued to fight, with Ashley Jackson scoring a powerplay goal at 58:40, assisted by Ethan James. Despite the Raiders’ valiant efforts, the Lightning held on to their lead.
Score at the end of the Third Period: Milton Keynes Lightning 5, Raiders 4
Goal Scorers and Assists
| Team | Scorer | Assist 1 | Assist 2 | Type | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MKL | James Griffin | Rory Herrman | Even Strength | 6:57 | |
| MKL | Dillon Lawrence | Rory Herrman | James Griffin | Even Strength | 20:36 |
| MKL | Rory Herrman | Dillon Lawrence | Even Strength | 24:36 | |
| Visitor | Riley MacRae | Aaron Connolly | Powerplay | 46:53 | |
| Visitor | Aaron Connolly | Even Strength | 48:19 | ||
| Visitor | Riley MacRae | Powerplay | 55:01 | ||
| MKL | Ross Venus | Tim Wallace | Short Handed | 57:39 | |
| MKL | Corey McEwen | Short Handed | 57:48 | ||
| Visitor | Ashley Jackson | Ethan James | Powerplay | 58:40 |
Penalties
| Team | Player | Penalty | Mins | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MKL | Too many men | 2 | 2:32 | |
| Visitor | Too many men | 2 | 11:40 | |
| Visitor | Callum Wells | Board | 2 | 16:48 |
| MKL | Ben Solder | Trip | 2 | 21:09 |
| Visitor | Blahoslav Novák | Abuse | 2 | 24:36 |
| Visitor | Sean Barry | Delay of game | 2 | 34:56 |
| Visitor | Abuse | 2 | 34:56 | |
| MKL | Ben Solder | Holding | 2 | 45:18 |
| MKL | Dillon Lawrence | Check to head | 53:56 | |
| MKL | Ross Green | Board + Rough | 54:24 | |
| Visitor | Rough | 2 | 54:25 |
Shots on Goal and Save Percentage
| Goaltender Name | Total Shots Faced | Save Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| William Kerlin | 32 | 87.5% |
| Ethan James | 36 | 86.1% |
Player Summary
Milton Keynes Lightning
- James Griffin: 1 Goal, 1 Assist
- Rory Herrman: 1 Goal, 2 Assists
- Dillon Lawrence: 1 Goal, 1 Assist
- Ross Venus: 1 Goal
- Corey McEwen: 1 Goal
- Tim Wallace: 1 Assist
Raiders
- Riley MacRae: 2 Goals
- Aaron Connolly: 1 Goal, 1 Assist
- Ashley Jackson: 1 Goal
- Ethan James: 1 Assist
This match was a testament to the competitive spirit and skill of both teams, with the Milton Keynes Lightning ultimately securing a narrow victory in a game full of twists and turns.
