Gators Lose in Shootout
Published on December 10, 2010 under SPHL (SPHL)
Louisiana IceGators News Release
LAFAYETTE, LA - The Louisiana IceGators (7-12) began an important two-game series against Fayetteville FireAntz (7-10). The 'Gators went into the game with a two point lead over the FireAntz. At the end of the night the 'Gators were tied with Fayetteville at 14 points after falling in a shootout to the FireAntz 5-4.
The first period opened with the IceGators going on a power play kill early. Donald Melnyk (LOU) was called for roughing less than four minutes into the game and Dean Moore (LOU) was called for slashing two minutes later. Even though the 'Gators were killing penalties, they were still able to strike first when Shawn McNeil (LOU) scored a power play goal to give the 'Gators a 1-0 lead. Fayetteville quickly responded when Rob Sich scored 20 seconds later. Louisiana answered about four minutes left in the period when Beau McLaughlin (LOU) scored with assistance from Melnyk and Trevor Karasiewicz (LOU).
Entering the second period the IceGators led 2-1. 9:26 into the period the FireAntz knotted the game at two after Jason Hill (FAY) scored his fourth goal of the season. Hill was then called for holding and the 'Gators would score on the ensuing power play goal Melnyk scored with 7:00 remaining in the second period and gave the 'Gators a 3-2 lead at the end of the period.
Going into the third period the IceGators were getting outshot 23-16, but they still had a 3-2 lead. Five minutes into the third period, the 'Gators were called for too many men on the ice. While on the power play the FireAntz were able to capitalize and tie the game at 3-3 when Anthony Perdicaro (FAY) scored his first goal of the season. The 'Gators captain, McNeil put the 'Gators back in the lead 4-3 when he scored with a little more than eight minutes left in the game. With 3:54 left in the game C.J. Tozzo (LOU) was called for hooking and put the IceGators down a player. During that penalty the FireAntz were unable to capitalize and as the penalty came to an end Jeffery Borrows (FAY) was called for hooking. With four seconds remaining Bobby Reed (FAY) scored to send the game to overtime.
Following an overtime period where the FireAntz outshot the 'Gators 3-0 the game went to a shootout. Shawn McNeil was the first to go for the IceGators but was unable to put the puck past Mike Spillane. The 'Gators second shooter was Karasiewicz and he was able to capitalize. The 'Gators led 1-0 going into the last shooter. Mark Versteeg-Lytwyn was the last hope for the FireAntz and he was able to get the puck in the net tying the shootout at 1-1. Nick Vandenbeld (LOU) was next for the IceGators but he was unable to score. Reed was able to score and win the game for the FireAntz.
"This was a tough lose to take," answered a frustrated IceGator Head Coach Dave MacIsaac. "Especially when we were so close to getting the victory. We will need to put the last two games behind us and come out tomorrow focused and determined to win tomorrow."
The IceGators remain in action at the Dome on Saturday, December 11 against the Fayetteville FireAntz. Fans are encouraged to bring a teddy bear to be donated to the Acadiana Children's Hospital. Don't miss your chance to bring a group to the game and take advantage of the 10 for 10 program. Groups of 10 can purchase tickets for $10. Call (337) 704-4423 for great season ticket and mini package opportunities, as well as the 10 for 10 program.
SPHL Stories from December 10, 2010
- Ice Flyers Lose at Home, End Four Game Win Streak - Pensacola Ice Flyers
- Gators Lose in Shootout - Louisiana IceGators
- RiverHawks Edged by Havoc 3-2 - Augusta RiverHawks
- Gators Win Big Game at Home - Louisiana IceGators
- RiverHawks Sign Forward Kevin Fukala - Augusta RiverHawks
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