Phantoms Down Rough Riders for Third Straight Win

January 29, 2016 - United States Hockey League (USHL)
Youngstown Phantoms News Release

YOUNGSTOWN, OH- The Youngstown Phantoms topped the USHL leading Cedar Rapids Rough Riders 2-1 in Iowa Friday night. Youngstown has now won six of its past seven games. It was Phantoms assistant captain Matt Miller's 150th USHL game.

"The boys really came together tonight. I think we have done a much better job of playing for each other lately, and the results are showing," Miller said.

Youngstown struck first, when Cam Morrison scored his 22nd goal of the year with just over two minutes left in the first period. Kris Myllari made a great play to keep the puck in Cedar Rapid's zone, and Morrison was able to beat Rough Riders goaltender Ben Blacker on the doorstep.

Cedar Rapids would respond in the second period behind Jacob Hayhurst's fifth goal of the season. Hayhurst's wrist shot from the left wing beat Phantoms goaltender Ryan Bednard to tie the contest at one a piece.

Both teams would have a few chances to take the lead, with each goalie making a handful of nice saves to keep the game tied. Youngstown would finally break through just over five minutes into the final period, when Noah Lalonde scored a shorthanded goal after a great individual effort by Tommy Apap to take the puck to the net. Lalonde tapped home his third goal of the year to give the Phantoms a lead they would never relinquish.

"Our guys had a lot of energy tonight. All 13 forwards and six defenseman were rolling, and everyone made some type of impact on the game. The leaders of this team really lead tonight," said Phantoms assistant coach Brad Patterson.

The Phantoms and Rough Riders will meet again Saturday night in Iowa. Puck drop is set for 8 p.m. eastern time.

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United States Hockey League Stories from January 29, 2016

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• Stampede Stumble in Waterloo Friday Night - Sioux Falls Stampede
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• Gamblers Fall in Overtime - Green Bay Gamblers
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