Gems Shoot Down Mallards 4-3

Published on March 20, 2012 under Central Hockey League (CHL)
Dayton Gems News Release


Dayton, OH - The Dayton Gems jumped out to an early lead and would survive a third period Mallards comeback effort to secure a thrilling 4-3 win on Cassano's Italian Ice inside the historic Hara Arena on Tuesday evening. Scoring in the Gems winning effort was Matt Baxter, Jon Ornelas, Nick Fanto and Brett Lutes.

Dayton was helped by Matt Baxter, who had one goal. Baxter scored 4:22 into the first period to make the score 1-1. Damian Surma provided the assist. Dayton also got points from Jonathan Ornelas, who also grabbed one goal and one assist and Nick Fanto, who also racked up one goal and one assist. Brett Lutes also scored for Dayton. More assists for Dayton came via Kyle Bochek, who had two and Andy Zulyniak and Matthew Larke, who contributed one a piece.

Quad City put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow the Gems to score on any of their three power plays. The Mallards' offense was clicking better than usual and put 44 shots on goal during the game, with Larry Sterling recording 41 saves for Dayton. The Gems incurred six minutes in penalty time with three minors. David Brown made 22 saves for the Mallards on 26 shots. Quad City incurred four minutes in penalty time with two minors.

Dayton took a 4-1 lead during the second period, only to have Quad City storm back on a Brandon Marino goal 10:47 into the third period to pull to one goal down. The Gems stifled the Mallards' power play, and did not give up a single goal while down a man.

Quad City was helped by John Snowden, who finished with one goal. Snowden scored 4:09 into the third period to make the score 4-2 Dayton. Justin Hofstetter assisted on the tally. Quad City additionally got points from Mickey Lang, who also tallied one goal and one assist. In addition, Quad City received assists from Bob Preece, who had one.

Despite the late charge, the Mallards would come up one goal short by the final horn, securing the 4-3 Gems win in the final meeting this season between the two clubs.

With the win, the Gems improve their record to 23-27-13 and extend their winning streak to three games.

The Gems return to action on Cassano's Italian Ice on Saturday when they host the Fort Wayne Komets for the final home game of the 2011-2012 season inside Hara Arena at 7pm. Saturday is "Pack the House Night" with the first 1,000 kids 12-under receiving a limited edition Gems "retro" youth jersey.

Additionally, the red Gems game worn sweaters will be auctioned off live immediately following the game. Tickets are still available by calling the Gems ticket office at 275-7777 or by visiting the "all new" www.DaytonGems.com, with $1 from every ticket sold being donated to local injured infant Caleb Zweibel and family as he continues to battle back to health after suffering a severe car accident.

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Central Hockey League Stories from March 20, 2012


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