Royals sweep Kings

The Temiscaming Royals eliminated the Espanola Kings from the G.M.H.L. playoffs this evening in Espanola by a score of 6-4.

Early on the Royals were finding out that the Kings were not going to roll over even though they were down in the series three games to none.

After the first period the Royals held a slim 3-2 lead on goals from Brandon Blanche, Cedric Boutin and Benoit Fiset.

In the second only one goal was scored by Justin Murray. The Royals were forced to kill off a full 2 minute 5 on 3. Goalie Guillaume Piche made several spectacular saves keeping the Kings off the scoresheet.

Early in third period, the Kings made the score 4-3, then Brandon Blanche scoring his second of the game on the power play restored the two goal lead. But Espanola scored on their own power play to make the score 5-4. The Kings pulled their goalie to try to tie the game and perhaps force overtime, but the Royals Corey Raymond ended the season for the Kings with an empty netter with only 45 seconds remaining.

Another good night for Cedric Boutin who finished with a goal and three assists.

Shots on goal were 48-41 in favor of the Royals.

Royals will earn the right to select their second round opponent in a draft of the eight remaining teams left in the GMHL playoffs. These teams should be - as they are all leading their series - Bradford Rattlers, Royals, Innisfil(bye in 1st round), Deseronto, Elliot Lake, Richmond Hill(bye), South Muskoka(bye) and King CIty.

Submitted to BayToday.ca