London Knights advance to Memorial Cup final with 4-2 win over Saginaw Spirit

The London Knights secured their spot in the championship game at the 2024 Memorial Cup tournament with a thrilling 4-2 victory over the Saginaw Spirit on May 29. Easton Cowan was the star of the game, scoring two goals and adding an assist, while Sam O’Reilly chipped in with two assists.

The Knights got off to a rocky start as Alex Christopoulos of the Spirit scored the opening goal. However, Kasper Halttunen quickly tied the game on a power play, showcasing the Knights’ resilience. Halttunen then set up Denver Barkey for the go-ahead goal in the second period.

The Spirit fought back, with Joey Willis leveling the score at 2-2 in the third period. With less than 90 seconds remaining, Easton Cowan stepped up for the Knights, scoring the go-ahead goal and then sealing the win with an empty-netter.

The victory was even more special as it coincided with the anniversary of the Knights’ Memorial Cup championship wins in 2005 and 2016. Additionally, London head coach Dale Hunter tied for second place in all-time wins at the Memorial Cup with 13 wins, alongside Brian Kilrea.

In recognition of their outstanding performances, six members of the Knights were named to the OHL All-Star and All-Rookie teams. Cowan and Oliver Bonk made the first All-Star team, while Michael Simpson, Sam Dickinson, Denver Barkey, and Coach Dale Hunter were named to the second team. Sam O’Reilly was also recognized on the All-Rookie team for his stellar play throughout the tournament.

Looking ahead, the Knights will face either the Moose Jaw Warriors or the Saginaw Spirit in the Memorial Cup final. The semi-final between the Warriors and Spirit will take place on Friday, May 31, with the championship game scheduled for Sunday, June 2.

Fans can catch all the action on 980 CFPL, online at http://www.980cfpl.ca, and on the Radioplayer Canada app. The London Knights are poised to make history once again as they aim to add another Memorial Cup title to their storied franchise.