The Halifax Mooseheads faced a tough match on Thursday night, ultimately falling to the Gatineau Olympiques in a thrilling 6 to 5 shootout at Centre Slush Puppie. Despite their effort in scoring four unanswered goals, the Mooseheads couldn't secure the victory.

The game kicked off at 1:37 of the first period, with the Mooseheads striking first. Halifax applied pressure on the Gatineau defense, leading to Oleg Kulebiakin setting up Caylen Blake. Blake's initial shot was saved by Olympiques goaltender Danai Shaiikov, but Jasu Mensonen quickly capitalized on the rebound, finding the back of the net and putting Halifax ahead.

Gatineau, however, answered back decisively. They quickly took control of the game, scoring two consecutive goals that propelled them to a one-goal lead by the end of the first period. Maxim Dubé scored first, managing to slide the puck past Halifax goaltender Owen Bresson during a two-on-one opportunity in the Mooseheads’ zone. Shortly thereafter, Noah Florent recovered a loose puck and showcased his skill as he deked around Bresson, adding another goal for the Olympiques.

The second period saw Simon Xavier Cyr extend Gatineau's lead, leaving Halifax in a challenging position. Yet, the Mooseheads regained their composure and surged back into the game. Amelio Santini got things rolling for Halifax at 12:54, nudging the puck into the back of the Olympiques' net. A flurry of offensive action followed, with Quinn Kennedy scoring a stunning shot from the right wing faceoff circle at 16:37 and Owen Phillips following up with a powerful point shot at 17:32, giving the Mooseheads a crucial one-goal advantage as they headed into the third period.

As the final period commenced, the Mooseheads built on their momentum. Just under a minute into the period, Shawn Carrier blasted a one-timer from Phillips into the net on a power play, stretching Halifax’s lead to two goals. But the Olympiques were not deterred. Gatineau managed to claw their way back into the contest, with Dylan Allie and Louis Étienne Halley each finding the net, thus tying the game and forcing it into overtime.

Overtime saw both teams battle hard, but neither side could break the deadlock, leading to a shootout. In the decisive moment, it was Dubé who emerged as the hero for Gatineau, deftly beating Bresson and securing the win for his team.

With this loss, the Mooseheads’ record now stands at 23 wins, 24 losses, three ties, and three overtime losses for the season. The game showcased notable performances, with all three stars awarded to Gatineau players: Cyr, who registered one goal and two assists, was named first star; Dubé took second star honors with one goal and one assist, while Allie secured third star with one goal as well.

Looking ahead, the Mooseheads are set to return to action on Friday, February 20. They will continue their final Quebec road trip of the season as they prepare to face the Drummondville Voltigeurs at Centre Marcel Dionne. Puck drop for the game is scheduled for 8 p.m., with live coverage available through 95.7 NewsRadio, featuring commentator Garreth MacDonald.