In a high-stakes Junior Prospects Hockey League clash, the 17U AAA Coquitlam HC edged out the 17U AAA Langley HA 4-3 in a dramatic overtime finish, fueled by a hat-trick performance from Charlie Pena. The game was a back-and-forth affair from the opening puck drop, with Langley asserting early pressure by outshooting Coquitlam 13-7 in the first period. However, it was Coquitlam who struck first on the power play, as Kwonlyn Choi, assisted by Keenen Canales, found the net midway through the period to give the visitors a 1-0 lead heading into the intermission.
The second period saw Langley's Duncan Gronberg even the score with an even-strength goal, but Coquitlam's Charlie Pena answered late in the frame, assisted by Forest Barnes, to restore the one-goal lead. The third period erupted with action as Langley mounted a fierce comeback. Micah Sidhu tied the game early, and then Andrew Meyer, with a helper from Zachary Smith, gave Langley their first lead of the night at 3-2. The physical play intensified with penalties on both sides, and Coquitlam capitalized on a crucial power play chance. With just under three minutes remaining, Charlie Pena struck again, completing a beautiful passing play from Keenen Canales and Kwonlyn Choi to force overtime and complete his second goal of the game.
Overtime was a tense, shot-for-shot battle, with both teams registering two chances. The duel between goalies Nevan Coburn of Langley and Joel Paladino of Coquitlam was pivotal, with Paladino turning away 39 of 42 shots for the win. The extra frame was settled when the red-hot Charlie Pena completed his hat trick and secured the game-winner just over three minutes in, sealing a hard-fought road victory for Coquitlam. Despite being outshot 39-27, Coquitlam's special teams efficiency and Pena's clutch scoring proved the difference in a classic JPHL overtime showdown.
14U AAA - HC Edmonton
14U AAA - Surrey Eagles HA
15U AAA - Bow Valley HC
15U AAA - Langley HA
