The Maple Leafs - U13 took control early and weathered a mid-game push from the RAMP Saints to secure a 4-2 victory in a game defined by special teams and physical play. The Leafs set the tone in the first period, outshooting the Saints 22-12 and capitalizing on their first power play opportunity. Just over a minute after a Saints penalty, Liam Taylor found the back of the net on the man advantage, assisted by Joseph Bentum, to give the home team an early lead. The pressure continued, and William Chibi doubled the advantage with an even-strength goal, courtesy of helpers from Taylor Sinclair and Alexander King. The Saints found themselves in penalty trouble throughout the frame, taking three minors and a double-minor for slashing and unsportsmanlike conduct, which allowed the Leafs to build momentum and a commanding shot lead.
The second period saw the RAMP Saints mount a comeback. After killing off two more penalties, they finally solved Leafs goalie Andrew Habkirk. Benjamin McGrath got the Saints on the board with an assist from Christian Symonds, cutting the deficit to 2-1. Just over two minutes later, Smith Love tied the game, finishing a setup from Jack Wheeler. However, the Leafs responded swiftly to reclaim the lead. Cohen Smith restored the home team's advantage, with Liam Taylor returning the favor from the first period by picking up the assist, making it 3-2 heading into the final frame.
The third period became a chippy, penalty-laden struggle as the Saints tried desperately to find another equalizer. The physical play escalated, resulting in matching roughing minors and a series of infractions. The Leafs' defense and goaltender Andrew Habkirk held firm, shutting the door on the Saints' attack. With the Saints pressing and their goalie pulled late, Vans Madsen sealed the victory with an empty-net goal in the final minute and a half. Despite a late flurry of penalties, including a bench minor for too many men on the Saints, the Maple Leafs - U13 managed the game expertly to close out the win, with Habkirk turning aside all 12 shots he faced in a strong performance.
Raptors
