Panthers Can’t Hold the Lead as Pirates Battle Back in Third

PORT HOPE, ON – The Port Hope Panthers came out strong but couldn’t hold off a third-period comeback from the Picton Pirates, falling 3–2 at home.

Christian Sokoljuk continued his hot streak, scoring both goals for the Panthers — including a shorthanded marker — to give Port Hope an early edge. His first came midway through the opening frame at 14:13, burying a feed from Sidney Wakely to make it 1–0.

In the second period, Sokoljuk struck again, this time unassisted and down a man, sniping his eighth of the season at 19:43 to give the Panthers a 2–0 lead heading into the third.

Picton turned the tide in the final frame, capitalizing on their opportunities to mount a comeback. Cole Stevenson put the Pirates on the board at 8:09, followed by Luc Amat’s equalizer at 12:32. With momentum swinging in their favor, Colby Leaver scored the game-winner at 17:24 to seal the 3–2 decision.

Despite the loss, the Panthers’ penalty kill was strong for much of the night, highlighted by Sokoljuk’s shorthanded effort.

The Panthers will look to bounce back in their next game when they face Amherstview on the road Wednesday night. Puck drop is set for 7:30 PM.