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The 2025 Memorial Cup kicked off with a dramatic showdown between the Medicine Hat Tigers and host Rimouski Oceanic. With just under three minutes left in regulation, Hunter St. Martin scored the winning goal to seal a 5-4 victory for the Tigers. It was a nail-biting finish that thrilled fans and set the tone for the tournament.
Late-Game Heroics Seal the Win
With the score tied at 4-4, St. Martin tipped in a perfect pass from Tanner Molendyk to secure the win. The goal came with only 2:41 remaining and capped off a fast-paced, hard-fought game.
“It was a great play by Tanner,” said St. Martin. “I saw the opening and just put my stick down. We’ve worked on that a lot.”
Fast Start and Furious Finish
Ryder Ritchie opened the scoring midway through the first period, capitalizing on a rebound after Gavin McKenna hit the crossbar. However, Rimouski answered quickly through Maël Lavigne, tying the game before the period ended.
The Oceanic then took a 2-1 lead in the second period following a Tigers turnover. But Bryce Pickford, continuing his red-hot scoring streak, responded with a goal to even things up. Rimouski didn’t stay quiet for long—Jacob Mathieu restored the hosts’ lead just over two minutes later with a lucky bounce to end the second frame 3-2.
Third Period Turnaround
Medicine Hat came out strong in the third. Pickford netted his second of the night just 68 seconds in, tying the game at 3-3. Minutes later, McKenna converted a breakaway to give the Tigers a 4-3 lead.
“I saw a chance to go high and took it,” said McKenna. “Fortunately, it worked out.”
But Rimouski’s top scorer, Jonathan Fauchon, answered back. His tying goal at 13:04 evened the game at 4-4, setting the stage for St. Martin’s game-winner.
Pickford’s Streak Continues
Bryce Pickford was a standout once again. With two goals in the match, he extended his goal-scoring streak to nine straight games. His consistency has been vital for Medicine Hat and could be a difference-maker throughout the tournament.
Team Effort and Resilience Shine Through
The Tigers’ defense was tested all night. Goaltender Harrison Meneghin stopped 20 shots, while teammates blocked numerous others, especially in the closing minutes. McKenna praised the team's grit.
“We gave everything,” he said. “Guys were blocking shots, diving to protect the net. That’s how much we wanted this.”
What’s Next in the Memorial Cup?
The 2025 Memorial Cup runs from May 22 to June 1 in Rimouski, Québec. All games will air live on TSN and RDS in Canada and will be available for international viewers on Victory+.
Upcoming Games:
- May 24 – Moncton vs. London (6:00 PM ET)
- May 25 – Rimouski vs. London (6:00 PM ET)
- May 26 – Moncton vs. Medicine Hat (7:00 PM ET)
- May 27 – London vs. Medicine Hat (7:00 PM ET)
- May 28 – Rimouski vs. Moncton (7:00 PM ET)
- May 29 – Tie-breaker (if needed) (7:00 PM ET)
- May 30 – Semi-final (7:00 PM ET)
- June 1 – Final (7:00 PM ET)
A Statement Victory to Start the Tournament
With a thrilling opening win, the Tigers have sent a strong message to their rivals. Fueled by late-game magic and relentless team play, Medicine Hat has proven they’re in Rimouski to compete—and win.
