Battle of the Ratliff Brothers: CHL's First-Ever Shootout Thriller

Jiffy Tames Bucks With Exciting 5-4 Shootout Win

PORTLAND, MAINE -- In the world of sports, it's often the unexpected showdowns that leave the most indelible mark on fans' memories. On the evening of October 1, 2023, at the William B. Troubh Ice Arena, hockey enthusiasts witnessed one such memorable clash between the Jiffy Car Wash and the Maine Beer Co. Bucks in the Chickadee Hockey League (CHL).

In a contest billed as the "Battle of the Ratliff Brothers," this game had a unique twist - it marked the first-ever shootout in the short history of the CHL. Fans were treated to a thrilling spectacle that didn't disappoint.

The Battle Begins

The Maine Beer Co. Bucks struck first, with Rich Valmanis finding the back of the net early in the first period, courtesy of a beautiful assist from Dave Esheverria. The Bucks had their sights set on victory, but Jiffy Car Wash had other plans.

Just over two minutes later, Sean McDonald of Jiffy Car Wash equalized the score with an impressive goal, assisted by Neal Shelley and Josh Boeddeker. The excitement continued when McDonald struck again, giving Jiffy Car Wash a 2-1 lead with only 1 minute and 26 seconds left in the first period.

Not to be outdone, Josh Boeddeker added his name to the scoresheet with a goal of his own, assisted by Quinton Farr, making it 3-1 in favor of Jiffy Car Wash before the end of the first period.

A Thrilling Comeback

The game took an intriguing turn in the third period when the Maine Beer Co. Bucks staged a remarkable comeback. Warren Valmanis and Mike Woelflein scored two crucial goals, narrowing the gap to 4-3.

With less than four minutes left on the clock, Aaron Sheer found the back of the net, tying the game at 4-4. The energy in the arena was palpable as both teams fought tooth and nail for the win.

The First-Ever CHL Shootout

With regulation time ending, followed by a scoreless back and forth 5 minute 3 on 3 OT, the game entered uncharted territory for the CHL - a shootout. The shootout, the first in the league's history, brought an extra layer of suspense to an already exciting match up.

In the shootout, Patrick Darcy of Jiffy Car Wash stepped up and delivered, scoring the lone decisive goal to give Jiffy the shootout win. Meanwhile, the Bucks  can hold their heads up high as they ended up staging an incredible comeback to earn a much deserved point in the shootout loss.