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Gems Outlast Komets in 4-3 Win Tuesday Night at Hara

March 6, 2012 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Dayton Gems News Release


Dayton, OH - The Dayton Gems jumped out to a quick 4-0 lead before weathering a Komet comeback in the third to fight their way to a physical 4-3 win on Tuesday night on Cassano's Italian Ice inside the historic Hara Arena.

The Gems survived a determined comeback attempt by the Fort Wayne Komets on the way to their 4-3 win, and second victory against the Komets in as many games. Dayton took a 4-0 lead during the second period, only to have Fort Wayne storm back on a Jean-Michel Rizk goal 13:35 into the third period to pull to one goal down.

Matthew Larke had two goals and one assist to lead the Gems. Larke scored the first of his two goals at 6:40 into the second period to make the score 2-0 Dayton. Damian Surma picked up the assist. Larke's next tally made the score Dayton with 3:29 left in the second period. Tim Hartung assisted on the tally.

Brandon Naurato also scored for Dayton. More assists for Dayton came via Nick Schneider, David Nimmo, Brett Lutes, and John Kennedy, who contributed one a piece.

The Komets' offense was clicking better than usual and put 35 shots on goal during the game, including posting an impressive 14 shots in the second and 17 in the third. Fort Wayne also got a goal from Stephon Thorne as well. Other players who recorded assists for Fort Wayne were Colin Chaulk, who had two and David Starenky, Frankie DeAngelis, and Chris Auger, who each chipped in one.

Gems rookie netminder Dan Dunn recorded 32 saves for Dayton. The Gems incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors. Fort Wayne's Gerry Festa stopped 23 shots out of the 27 that he faced. The Komets incurred four minutes in penalty time with two minors.

With the win, the Gems improve their record to 20-25-12 and pick up two points in the Turner Conference standings. Fort Wayne drops to 36-18-4.

Dayton returns to action on Friday evening when they host the Bloomington Blaze on Cassano's Italian Ice at 7pm. The first 1,000 fans through the gates starting at 6pm will receive a limited edition Gems carabiner keychain. Dayton finishes their week with a rematch with the Blaze on Saturday night at Hara.

Tickets for both Friday and Saturday's games against Bloomington are on sale now by calling 275-7777 or by visiting the all new www.DaytonGems.com .

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