Rock hang on, edge Lumberjacks

Timmins Rock forward Riley Brousseau was in all alone on Hearst Lumberjacks goalie Matteo Gennaro on this play during Friday night’s NOJHL exhibition contest at the McIntyre Arena, but he was unable to find the back of the net. It would not matter, however, as the Rock went on to edge the Lumberjacks 2-1 in the first half of the home-and-home series that will see the two sides meet in Hearst Sunday afternoon. ANDREW AUTIO/THE DAILY PRESS

New additions Yan Bessette and Nolan Ring each scored as the Timmins Rock won their exhibition opener 2-1 over the Hearst Lumberjacks at the McIntyre Arena on Friday night.


Andrew Autio
The Daily Press/Postmedia Network


The contest between the bitter NOJHL East Division rivals was very chippy and marred by a frightening injury to Rock forward Tyler Patterson, which occurred 12 minutes into the third period.

Patterson was injured in a massive collision with Lumberjacks defenceman Carson Cox just inside the Hearst blue-line.

It was immediately apparent Patterson wasn’t getting up.

A massive scrum ensued.

Multiple players, including Cox, were given game misconduct penalties.

Patterson received immediate medical attention and was seen alert and moving all extremities within a few minutes.

Paramedics arrived at the arena and Patterson was stabilized on a stretcher before being transported to Timmins and District Hospital.

Both teams were sent off the ice for approximately 15 minutes, while Patterson was tended to before officials decided to finish the contest after encouraging reports on Patterson emerged.

Hearst had some late opportunities on the power play, but could not find the equalizer.

Robbie Rutledge scored the lone Lumberjacks goal.

Gavin McCarthy earned the victory in goal for Timmins, while Matteo Gennaro took the loss for Hearst.

The two teams will meet again in Hearst on Sunday afternoon.

The Rock will begin the regular season at home on Friday, Sept. 17, against the Kirkland Lake Gold Miners.

While not permitted for Friday’s match against Hearst, fans will be in attendance for the home opener.

GALLERY