Kalamazoo's Robbie Payne Scores Twice, Including Game-Winner in 3-2 Victory

Published on September 10, 2011 under North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings News Release


Kalamazoo, MI- Making a statement in their first of two preseason games, the Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings rallied late to tie and eventually went on to defeat the Team USA Under-17 Developmental Program 3-2 in a shootout Saturday afternoon at Wings West Borgess Health Rink.

Team USA struck first from the blue line, as defenseman Scott Savage (1st) got the NTDP on the scoreboard just 6:02 into the action. Savage's slap shot never left the ice as it beat the outstretched leg of Kalamazoo goalie Alex Okicki.

It didn't take the Jr. K-Wings a long time to bounce back, as they got their equalizer from Chad McDonald (1st) seven minutes later on the power play. His wrist shot found the top corner of the net past the glove of USA goalie Hunter Miska.

The second period had plenty of chances, but no scoring. The Jr. K-Wings had seven shots on net, and killed two penalties over the course of the twenty minutes. Okicki made ten saves on ten shots and gave Kalamazoo a great chance to win the game in the third period.

In the third period, Team USA went back ahead with a rebound marker from Tyler Motte (1st) giving the NTDP a 2-1 advantage.

Crashing the net all game, the Jr. K-Wings persistence would pay off as Robbie Payne (1st) recorded the equalizer with 16:32 mark to force overtime.

After a scoreless five minute overtime session, the Jr. K-Wings would dominate in the shootout scoring all three times, including the eventual game-winner from Payne.

Okicki stood tall between the pipes turning aside all three Team USA chances to secure the victory. - The Jr. K-Wings will conclude their preseason schedule tomorrow, (9/11) afternoon with another 2 p.m. encounter against Team USA U-17 Development Program at Wings West Borgess Health Rink.

Sunday, September 11th is the ten-year anniversary on one of most horrific tragedies in U.S. history. To honor those who risked their lives not only on that day, but on a daily basis, the Jr. K-Wings are offering FREE admission to all Fire, Police and Military personnel with valid identification.

Tickets for all Jr. K-Wings home games are only $5 and are available on game day at door at Wings West. Youth hockey players 12 and under wearing their jersey will receive FREE admission accompanied by a paying adult.

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North American Hockey League Stories from September 10, 2011


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