Big Third Period Leads to Albany Devils 5-3 Victory
March 22, 2015 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Albany Devils News Release
ALBANY, NY - Trailing by two goals after the second period, the Albany Devils overwhelmed the Hartford Wolf Pack with five goals in the final frame. Albany scored four of those goals within the first 7:27 en route to a 5-3 victory Sunday at Times Union Center.
The Devils tied a franchise record for most goals in one period. They've achieved the accomplishment three other times: Dec. 2, 2007 vs. Manchester (Third, 6-3); Jan. 14, 2007 vs. Philadelphia (Second, 6-3); Dec. 27, 2008 vs. Providence (First, 8-1).
"We knew at this point of the year we need wins and this was a pretty big game for us," said Paul Thompson, who had a goal and an assist. "There was really no choice, we had to come back. We wanted to get pucks to the net. Fortunately, we got some power plays and we executed."
The Devils converted on three power-play chances in the third, including Thompson's tally at 1:02 to start the period. Mike Sislo followed with an even-strength goal at 2:02.
Back-to-back Hartford penalties gave Albany a five-on-three advantage and they converted on both. Scott Timmins put home a try inside the crease at 6:23 and Raman Hrabarenka went five-hole with a point shot at 7:27.
"The first two periods, we got in good position," Sislo said of the power play unit. "We moved it around and just hesitated to get the puck to the net. The coaches emphasized that a lot and I think we did a better job in the third and that's why we got the goals."
Hartford pulled within one at 15:44, but Tim Sestito scored into an empty net at 19:44 to clinch the win.
Sislo led all scorers with a goal and two helpers. Like Thompson, Sestito and Timmins each registered a goal and an assist.
In goal, Scott Clemmensen made 15 saves, including an incredible desperation save after Albany's fourth goal. He reached back with his blocker to knock the puck out of the air. The save could have been the difference in the game.
"If you think about that back door save by Clemmensen," said Head Coach Rick Kowalsky. "I mean, there was nothing but his blocker and the net. You need big plays like that this time of the year."
The Devils - winners of two straight - improve to 29-25-5-6, while the Wolf Pack go to 34-22-5-4.
NOTABLES
Paul Thompson registered his team-leading 26th goal of the season and his 10th multi-point game... Mike Sislo posted his 18th tally of the year, ending a seven-game goal drought. He notched his ninth multi-point contest ... Scott Timmins netted his eighth goal of the season, ending an eight-game goal drought ... With his seventh goal of the season, Raman Hrabarenka has three goals and an assist in the last five contests ... Tim Sestito scored his ninth goal of the season.
NEXT UP
The Devils travel south to face the Norfolk Admirals for a pair of games next weekend. Game one is Friday at 7:30 pm at Scope Arena. Fans can follow the action online at ahllive.com or over the airwaves on 104.5 "The Team" ESPN Radio.
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