The Franklin Panthers hockey squad faced the Canton Bulldogs yesterday afternoon and were unable to pull off the W in a game that was close until the third period. Franklin and Canton were tied 1-1 heading into the final frame after Drake McAlpine tied the game late in the second, but Canton’s pressure finally paid off in the third as the Bulldogs scored three times to pull away.
Ryan Elrick finished with a hat-trick to lead Canton’s attack, and Franklin’s goaltender Alex Weber was outstanding in net, recording 46 saves despite allowing three goals (one an empty-netter). Franklin battled hard and kept the game within reach for long stretches, but Canton’s third-period surge made the difference.
The Panthers close the regular season at 7-13-1 and sit as the No. 30 seed in the D1 playoff bracket, precariously on the edge but still within range. Their loss to Canton should not eliminate them from the postseason picture, and Franklin will learn its playoff opponent in the coming days. The team can build on the competitive moments from this contest and use the off-time to sharpen special teams and finish plays in what should be a tight playoff window.
