The exhibition matchup on December 16 at Delaney Arena read like a David and Goliath story on paper. North End Flames U15AA entered against the younger Thunder Bay Kings U13AAA and leaned on size, pace, and depth from the opening faceoff. Marcello Michelizzi broke through at 3:49 of the first period with help from Zander Davis and Cameron Burton. Keegan Hebert added another at 13:14 off passes from Parker Bron and Carson Dove. Michelizzi struck again at 14:48, once more set up by Davis and Burton, pushing the Flames ahead despite steady early resistance from the Kings.
The second period showed the weight of experience. Grady Ladouceur scored at 1:21, assisted by Mason Spade, after sustained pressure in the Kings zone. Zander Davis followed at 10:16 with Ladouceur and Michelizzi on the assists. Carson Dove made it 6 to 0 at 12:59 with support from Declan Niittynen and Spade. The Kings continued to battle, blocked lanes, and chased pucks, yet the Flames controlled possession and tempo.
North End closed the scoring at 5:08 of the third period when Dove finished his second of the night off a feed from Ethan Francis McKay. The Kings stayed committed to the contest until the final whistle, showing resolve against an older and more physical opponent. The scoreboard favoured Goliath, but the effort and perseverance from the Kings defined the spirit of the game.
