Binghamton Takes Game One
May 2, 2025 - Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL)
Binghamton Black Bears News Release
Winston-Salem, NC - The Binghamton Black Bears defeated the Carolina Thunderbirds 4-1 in the opening game on the Commissioner's Cup Finals. The Black Bears had four different goal scorers, and tallied a point in every period.
Just like last year in the finals, Binghamton started game one off hot. Kyle Stephan was able to score his first of the playoffs just three minutes in, and the Black Bears started hunting for more. Two-time playoff MVP, Gavin Yates, was able to capitalize off a giveaway from Carolina, and just like that, Binghamton was up 2-0.
The Thunderbirds did manage to punch back in the first period. Gus Ford and Zac White connected on a 2-on-1 to cut the lead in half, but White's goal ended up being the only tally of the night for Carolina. After 20 minutes, Binghamton led 2-1.
The teams traded chances in the middle frame, but neither side was willing to break. Once again a Carolina turnover proved costly. Blake Tosto snagged his second of the postseason on a unassisted goal served up to him on a platter. Tosto's goal was the only score in the second, and Binghamton pushed their lead back up to two, 3-1.
Carolina started the third period on the power play, but the Black Bears managed to nullify all the chances. A delay of game penalty for the puck being over the glass was the only infraction of the night, as the teams played 58 minutes of 5-on-5 hockey. The Thunderbirds pushed hard in the period, but Connor McAnanama stood tall, stopping 34 of 35. With under five minutes left to go, who else but Tyson Kirkby to score one for good measure? Kirkby's fourth of the playoffs was the icing on the cake as the Black Bears win game one by a final of 4-1.
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