Express v. Rapids etc.
Better late than never.
The 2021 portion of the Northern Ontario Jr. Hockey League regular season will finally get underway tonight when the French River Rapids play host to their cohort rival Espanola Express in a slated 6:00 start.
The two teams have already faced off against each other six times this season with each side winning three games. Two of French River’s wins were in extra time.
The six meetings between French River and Espanola took place between November 13 and November 28. Since then, the Rapids have been idle while the Express played four December games against the Soo Thunderbirds, the last one being on the 20th of that month.
French River will take a record of 3-3-0 into the upcoming four game series against Espanola, which has a 4-4-2 mark from 10 games played to date.
Paul Frustaglio, who is the general manager and coach in French River, is thankful for the return to play, especially since the Rapids last game was back on November 28.
“We would like to thank the players and their families for their patience and support during these unprecedented times in our lives (relative to COVID-19 and the shutdown in play),” Frustaglio told Hockey News North.
“I would also like to commend my players for their daily commitment to keeping in good physical condition and staying focused and positive. Also, I would like to thank the league and its members for their commitment to our players who deserve the opportunity to play the game they love,” Frustaglio added.
Following is a confirmed upcoming schedule of games between French River and Espanola as well as the Blind River Beavers and Soo Thunderbirds. (All NOJHL games are broadcast live on Hockey TV.)
French River Rapids vs. Espanola Express
Tuesday, Feb. 23: 6 p.m. @ French River
Wednesday, Feb. 24: 6 p.m. @ Espanola
Friday, Feb. 26: 7 p.m. @ Espanola
Saturday, Feb. 27: 4 p.m. @ French River
Blind River Beavers vs. Soo Thunderbirds
Wednesday, Feb. 24: 7 p.m. @ Sault Ste. Marie
Friday, Feb. 26: 7 p.m. @ Sault Ste. Marie
Sunday, Feb. 28: 2 p.m. @ Blind River
Tuesday, March 2: 7 p.m. @ Sault Ste. Marie
Saturday, March 6: 2 p.m. @ Blind River
Sunday, March 7: 2 p.m. @ Blind River