Barlow's Hattrick Leads Generals To Victory In Game One

Game one between Oshawa and Brampton was as explosive as we all expected, featuring a pair of hattricks and 11 goals between the two teams. Ultimately, Oshawa came out on top, beating the Steelheads 7-4.

The Generals dominated the scoreboard early, scoring four goals before the end of the first period. Winnipeg Jets prospect Colby Barlow got involved early, crashing the net and ramming home a puck that squeaked under Jack Ivankovic's arm. 

Minutes later Barlow tipped home Simon Wang's point shot to regain the lead for Oshawa. 

Under a minute into the second, New York Islanders prospect Calum Ritchie fed Barlow for a one-timer that made the back of the net bulge outwards. Barlow's power-play goal completed the hattrick while putting Osahwa up 5-1. 

Barlow's game was an example of how effective a player can be when they play a simple, rugged style. Two of his three goals came from using his size to cruise around the net like a shark ready to pounce on an unsuspecting fish.

While Oshawa enjoyed a dominant first half of the game, Brampton found its stride in the second half. 

Dallas Stars prospect Angus MacDonell led the charge for his squad and recorded a hattrick of his own by the end of the game. He scored his first goal of the night in the opening minutes of the game on a bad-angle shot that slipped past Jacob Oster and tied the game at one.

Near the end of the second period, he sped down the ice with Carson Rehkopf, creating a 2-on-1 opportunity. He looked off the pass and sniped the puck short side, scoring Brampton's second goal of the game.

With just over a minute to go, MacDonell sealed the hattrick by scoring a power-play goal off of a slick zone entry by Porter Martone.

In general, the stars were shining brightly in this game. Aside from MacDonell and Barlow, Beckett Sennecke ended the night with two goals and an assist while Carson Rehkopf potted a goal and Porter Martone tallied a pair of helpers.

Generals' captain and Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Ben Danford scored a goal while Ritchie was credited with a pair of assists.

Game one of this series followed through on what promised to be a bought between two heavy hitters. These two lineups are loaded with elite talent. 

While Oshawa fans will be looking for a repeat of the offensive dynamism shown by the Generals in game one, Brampton fans will surely be calling for some holes to be plugged defensively.

Jack Ivankovic had an uncharacteristically rough performance, allowing six goals on 16 shots. He night came to an end early in the second period. Despite having a rough outing, it is almost inconceivable that the 2025 NHL Draft eligible Ivankovic won't get the start for game two.

The two sides will square off once more on Sunday for game two at the Tribute Communities Centre in Oshawa.