Windsor Spitfires vs London Knights March 16 2025

On March 16, 2025, the WFCU Centre in Windsor, Ontario, played host to an electrifying Ontario Hockey League (OHL) matchup between the Windsor Spitfires and the London Knights. In a game that showcased offensive prowess from both sides, the Spitfires emerged victorious with a final score of 8-5, ending the Knights’ impressive seven-game winning streak.

Game Summary

The high-scoring affair saw the Spitfires overcome two separate two-goal deficits, demonstrating their resilience and offensive firepower. The home team’s victory was fueled by a remarkable four-goal outburst in the second period, which proved to be the turning point of the game.

First Period

The Knights started strong, with Easton Cowan opening the scoring just 3:53 into the game, assisted by Sam Dickinson and Will Nicholl. Logan Hawery extended London’s lead to 2-0 with 1:03 remaining in the period, with helpers from Rene Van Bommell and Ryder Boulton.

Second Period

The Spitfires roared back in the second frame. Jack Nesbitt got Windsor on the board at 2:32, assisted by A.J. Spellacy. Landon Sim restored London’s two-goal lead at 10:13, making it 3-1 for the Knights. However, Windsor’s offense exploded with four unanswered goals:

1. Jack Nesbitt (2nd of the game)
2. Luke McNamara (55 seconds after Nesbitt’s goal)
3. Cole Davis (during 4-on-4 play)
4. Liam Greentree (power play goal)

This offensive surge put Windsor ahead 5-3 heading into the final period.

Third Period

The excitement continued in the third, with Easton Cowan scoring his second of the game for London at 4:36, narrowing the gap to 5-4. Cole Davis responded for Windsor with his second goal of the night, restoring the two-goal lead. Jacob Julien brought London within one again, but empty-net goals from Conor Walton and Noah Morneau sealed the 8-5 victory for Windsor.

Key Statistics

• Final Score: Windsor Spitfires 8, London Knights 5
• Shots on Goal: Windsor 36, London 22
• Power Play: Both teams went 1-for-4

Standout Performances

Windsor Spitfires

• Jack Nesbitt: 2 goals
• Cole Davis: 2 goals, 2 assists
• Liam Greentree: 1 goal (power play)
• Luke McNamara: 1 goal
• Conor Walton: 1 goal (empty net)
• Noah Morneau: 1 goal (empty net)

London Knights

• Easton Cowan: 2 goals
• Sam Dickinson: 2 assists (tying the Knights’ record for most points by a defenseman in a single season with 87)
• Landon Sim: 1 goal (extending his point streak to nine games)
• Logan Hawery: 1 goal
• Jacob Julien: 1 goal

Game Impact and Context

This victory was significant for the Windsor Spitfires, as it marked their third win against the Knights on home ice this season. The Spitfires have now become the first team in the OHL to defeat London three times in regulation this season, showcasing their competitive edge against one of the league’s top teams.

For the Knights, despite the loss, there were notable achievements. Sam Dickinson’s two assists in the game brought his season total to 87 points, tying the London Knights’ record for most points by a defenseman in a single season, alongside Evan Bouchard and Rick Corriveau.

The game also highlighted the ongoing rivalry between these two teams, with the home team winning all matchups so far this season. This pattern adds an intriguing element to their potential playoff matchups.

Looking Ahead

With the regular season winding down, both teams are gearing up for the playoffs. The Spitfires’ strong performance against a top team like London bodes well for their postseason prospects. Meanwhile, the Knights will look to bounce back from this loss and maintain their position as one of the OHL’s elite teams.

As the season concludes, fans of both teams can anticipate more exciting hockey and potentially a playoff rematch between these fierce competitors. The final regular-season meeting between the Spitfires and Knights is scheduled for March 21 at Canada Life Place in London, promising another thrilling chapter in this intense rivalry.

Photos: Tim Jarrold – In Play! magazine