Hayden Jeffery and the Niagara IceDogs defied the standings, defied the odds and perhaps even defined logic Saturday night, pulling off one of the most memorable wins in franchise history.

Called up from the St. Catharines Rankin Construction Falcons for his first home start, the 18-year-old goaltender turned in a magnificent performance, kicking out 40 shots, as the IceDogs upset the league-leading London Knights 6-4 to put an end to a 12-game losing streak before a sold-out crowd at the Meridian Centre.

“It’s unbelievable,” said Jeffery, who 24 hours earlier led the Falcons to a 5-3 win. “It’s such a special feeling. All the guys in the room are so happy we got the win, especially to end a losing streak like that. It’s really cool to be a part of.”

It was the first win for Niagara versus London since December of 2017, a span of 10 games.

Jeffery, who was selected by the IceDogs in the 2023 Ontario Hockey League U18 draft and has been the Falcons starting netminder this season, was named the game’s first star. Following a quick interview on the bench following the game, Jeffery made his way into the dressing room where he was doused with water in celebration by his teammates.

“Oh yeah, it was awesome,” he smiled. “Everyone was just so happy. It made it seem like the team got so much closer.”

Jeffery, who made his first OHL start in a 5-1 loss at Owen Sound Wednesday, was able to share the moment with those closest to him.

“So many people came — friends, teammates, staff, the Falcons — it was really special being able to play in front of everyone,” he said. “It was a really good feeling.”

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