OHL Saginaw Spirit

Rangers Netminder Cajan Shines; Spirit Fall to Rangers, 2-1

Published on November 14, 2021 under Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Saginaw Spirit News Release


Saginaw, MI - The Saginaw completed their first three-game in three-night stretch with a 2-1 loss to the Kitchener Rangers Sunday evening in front of 2,450 fans at The Dow Event Center in Saginaw, Michigan. Rangers Import goaltender Pavel Cajan made 29 saves and earned first star honors, while overage defenseman Arber Xhekaj scored a goal and an assist.

In a tightly-contested opening frame, the Spirit and Rangers both enjoyed power plays in which they came up empty. With the Spirit's Olivier Savard gone for tripping, the Spirit filled the net first on a shorthanded breakaway from Davis "T-Bone" Codd for his fourth goal of the season. Codd was sent off to the races by Pacey Schlueting, who drew the only assist. The Spirit led 1-0 after one period.

Midway through the second period, Xhekaj ripped a slapshot from the left wing side that surprised Tristan Lennox and beat him on the glove side. The Rangers and Spirit were tied 1-1 going into the third.

2:46 into the third period, Jacob LeBlanc scored his first OHL goal on a wrist shot from the right circle. The play was reviewed for goaltender interference but the Ranger goal was upheld. A late 4:00 penalty to Xhekaj allowed the Spirit a chance tie to tie, but Czech import Pavel Cajan held down the fort in goal and secured a 2-1 victory of the Rangers. New York Islanders prospect Tristan Lennox made 25 saves for the Spirit.

The Spirit return to the ice Wednesday, Nov. 17 facing the Soo Greyhounds at The Dow Event Center. Student and Military rush upper-level tickets are $7 with proper identification.

For tickets to any Saginaw Spirit home game fans can call (989) 497-7747, visit saginawspirit.com, or by visiting the Saginaw Spirit Store at 5789 State Street, Saginaw, MI.

Fans with any questions or concerns about fan protocols may call the Spirit at (989) 497-7747 or email info@saginawspirit.com.

Check out the Saginaw Spirit Statistics

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Ontario Hockey League Stories from November 14, 2021


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