By Jordan Matthews

COQUITLAM – The Richmond Rapids delivered an emphatic statement on the road, overpowering the Coquitlam Cougars 4-1 in a game marked by skillful finishes and a pivotal momentum shift. The Rapids pulled away late after an early battle, with Owen Gallagher igniting the scoring charge and goaltender Nikolai Petrov providing a strong backbone.

The game’s tempo was intense from the start, with both teams exchanging chances and strong defensive plays. Richmond opened the scoring when Gallagher unleashed a powerful slap shot, assisted by Dmitri Sokolov and Lila Nair, setting the tone early. Amara Diop extended the lead with a wrist shot, following a slick pass from Sokolov that beat Cougar goalie Bruno Costa’s glove.

Despite the pressure, the Cougars largely controlled shot metrics, firing 29 shots compared to Richmond’s 31. But low efficiency plagued Coquitlam, who could convert on just one goal, deflected in by Mai Nguyen late in the game, assisted by Thomas Dubois. The defensive resilience and clinical finishing from Richmond’s top players eroded Coquitlam’s momentum.

Nia Mwangi dazzled with her offensive flair, firing a crisp wrist shot that netted Richmond’s third goal, setting the stage for Gallagher’s second goal, a quick rebound powered home off a Diop shot. Gallagher’s 2-goal and 1-assist night was pivotal, with Diop also tallying a goal and an assist, underscoring Richmond’s offensive depth.

Despite making 20 saves, Costa was ultimately overwhelmed by Richmond’s efficiency and relentless attack. Petrov’s saves kept the Rapids comfortably ahead, ending with an impressive 94.7% save percentage.

“Gallagher’s leadership on the ice really lifted us, especially his clutch goals that tilted the momentum,” Richmond coach said after the game. Gallagher reflected, “We stayed patient, capitalized on opportunities, and kept the pressure high.”

Key Notes

• Richmond Rapids outshot Cougars 31-29
• Owen Gallagher led with 2 goals and 1 assist
• Goalie Nikolai Petrov posted a 94.7% save percentage
• Coquitlam Cougars committed 44 turnovers vs. Richmond’s 39
• Mai Nguyen scored Coquitlam’s lone goal on a deflection