Benedetto stops 29 to blank Rapids

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Soo Eagles goaltender Joseph Benedetto turned aside all 29 shots he faced to record his second shutout of the season in a 2-0 triumph over the visiting French River Rapids in a Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League encounter Saturday at Pullar Stadium.

Neither side would connect offensively in a scoreless first period, but Hayden Clark struck shorthanded for the Eagles 8:20 into the middle frame to put the home side up by one through 40 minutes in what proved to be his fourth career game-wining goal in the NOJHL.

A late power play helped Sault Ste. Marie add some insurance in the final session when Kyle Quinn collected his 11th goal of the campaign with 2:10 remaining with assists going to Riley Jensen and Charley Hanewall.

French River starter Marshall Frappier turned in a solid performance for the Rapids despite the setback making 45 saves along the way.