Thunderbirds score win over French River

A late goal was the difference for the Soo Thunderbirds on Friday night after falling behind early. 

Returning from injury, Nick Smith scored in the third period to lift the Thunderbirds to a 2-1 Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League victory over the French River Rapids on Friday at the John Rhodes Community Centre.

Nolan Ford had the other goal for the Thunderbirds, who outshot the Rapids 25-12 over the final 40 minutes after falling behind in the opening period.

Thunderbirds goaltender William Anderson made 24 saves.

Marshall Frappier stopped 34 shots for French River.

Jacob Romano had the lone goal for the Rapids, who fall to 12-20-2-1.

The Thunderbirds improve to 24-6-0-1 and return to action on Saturday night at home against the Rayside-Balfour Canadians at the John Rhodes. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m.