Strong Start for the Squires in OEHL Debut

The Petrolia Squires opened their OEHL season Saturday night with a 6–1 win over the Tavistock Royals at Greenwood Rec.

It was the first game of the year for Petrolia and the debut of a lineup that mixes returning experience with several new faces. Josh Barraclough and Tyler Ryan made their return to the team after time away, while Joel Pavey, Ryan Barwitzki, Colby Ackworth, Evan Wammes, and Will O’Leary-Dilosa suited up for their first games as Squires. The win also marked Brad Riley’s first behind the bench as the Squires head coach.

T.J. Harris was named team captain before puck drop and led a group that looked sharp right out of the gate — fast, organized, and ready to play.

After a scoreless first period, Petrolia broke things open in the second. Daniel Gibson opened the scoring, followed by goals from Adam Craievich and Josh Barraclough to make it 3–0 heading into the third.

In the final frame, Evan Wammes, Tyler Ryan, and T.J. Harris added to the lead as the Squires rolled to a 6–1 win.

Goaltender Jakob Knowles was outstanding, turning aside 45 shots to earn Player of the Game honours. Curtis Helps led the way offensively with three assists.

With the win, Petrolia starts the year 1–0, while Tavistock (3–1) remains atop the OEHL South Division after a victory Saturday.

The Squires are back in action this weekend — home Friday vs. Milverton and on the road Saturday in Delhi for their first back-to-back of the season.