Leprechauns explode to force Game 7 showdown

Shawn McManus lead the charge as Studabakers Beachside stuns Famous Archie’s

Owen Woolhouse breaks in alone on a breakaway, testing Leprechauns goaltender Braeden Price during Game 6 action at Rotary Place.

The season was on the line. One more loss, and it was over.

Instead, the Studabakers Beachside Leprechauns delivered their biggest performance of the Arena Series, defeating the Famous Archie’s Ice Llamas 10-7 in Game 6 to force a winner-take-all Game 7.

From the opening whistle, the tone was different. The Leprechauns came out flying, pushing the pace and generating chances early. Mitchell Webb and Shawn McManus led the charge offensively, while Aidan Baxter quietly controlled the game with a three-assist performance that helped unlock the Llamas’ defence.

Every time the Ice Llamas tried to respond, the Leprechauns had an answer.

Joe Nieleszeruk powered the Llamas with a hat trick, continuing his strong series, and contributions from Owen Woolhouse, Josh Buys, and Tamara Evans kept the pressure on. But the difference came in key moments, where the Leprechauns capitalized on their chances and never allowed momentum to fully swing.

In goal, Braeden Price stood tall under heavy pressure, turning aside an estimated 28 shots and delivering a steady performance when his team needed it most. At the other end, the Llamas struggled to slow down the Leprechauns’ attack in what turned into a high-event, back-and-forth game.

By the final whistle, the message was clear. This series isn’t over.

With the win, the Leprechauns force a decisive Game 7, the ultimate showdown to determine the Arena Series champion.

Everything now comes down to one final game. It’s set for Saturday at Rotary Place, with puck drop scheduled for 8:45 p.m.

Winner takes all.