Preview: Mayhem at Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs (Game 16)
December 1, 2018 - SPHL (SPHL)
Macon Mayhem News Release
Mayhem Hold off Valiant Comeback Attempt
Third periods have been the Mayhem's calling card all season. Third periods, along with their goaltending, have been the two greatest distinguishing factors which have set them apart from other squads through the first quarter of the campaign. Heading into yesterday's contest against Roanoke, the Mayhem had outscored their opponents 18-5 in the third period this season, whereas periods one and two had been just barely over an even differential. Last night, however, the tables were turned and the closing stanza belonged to Roanoke.
Macon had jumped out to a 4-1 lead when Stathis Soumelidis buried a power play goal in the first minute of the third. While the goal did not seem crucial at the time, it ended up being so as it stood as the game-winner, Soumelidis' second game-winning-goal in as many games. Michael Economos led a third-period comeback which fell just short, and the Mayhem held on for a 4-3 triumph.
The Matchup
With yesterday's admirable effort falling short, the Rail Yard Dawgs will be that much hungrier to exorcise their demons tonight and take down the Mayhem, who've beaten them twice in their own rink already. Were it not for Jordan Ruby outplaying Jacob Caffrey by a country mile, yesterday's tilt likely would have had a different result. Roanoke nearly doubled the Mayhem in shots on goal last night, 40-21, and certainly had more high-end scoring chances. However, credit has to be given to the Mayhem for capitalizing on their opportunities and for drawing countless penalties, which was one of the keys to last night's game. Roanoke's penalty kill has struggled this season, and the Mayhem adjusted their game plan accordingly. With yesterday's outcome fresh in their minds, the Rail Yard Dawgs are expected to respond with a very disciplined and focused approach to tonight's game.
Comeback Killers
The Mayhem are undefeated this year when leading after a period of play. They are 5-0-0 when leading after one period, and 9-0-0 when leading after two. They are 8-0-0 after scoring the first goal. Whether it's been done gracefully or not, the Mayhem have been experts at quelling comeback attempts, with last night's decision serving as a prime example. With this being said, getting off to a strong start becomes even more essential, as history has proven how high the Mayhem's victory probability is when they start a game out the right way. They're also a perfect 7-0-0 when outshooting their opponents, which is an area they will be looking to remedy tonight after being heavily outshot yesterday.
70s Night / Star Wars Night
Next Friday, December 7th, the Mayhem will turn around and host the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs to kick off their busiest home month of the season. Friday will be 70s/Disco Night, where our fans from the baby boomer and x generations can re-live the glory days of disco and legendary bands like The Who, Queen and The Rolling Stones. The next day, December 8th, the Mayhem will wrap up a four-game stretch against Roanoke on Star Wars Night, where fans can tap into their inner Jedi and join the Mayhem in their fight against the dark side. Puck drops at 7:35 pm ET both nights.
SPHL Stories from December 1, 2018
- Petaccio Powers Thunderbolts To 5-1 Win - Evansville Thunderbolts
- Mayhem Complete Road Sweep in Roanoke - Macon Mayhem
- Rivermen Falter in Overtime Saturday - Peoria Rivermen
- Dawgs Defeated by Mayhem, 4-1 - Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs
- Sheeran's OT Winner Sinks Rivermen, Marksmen Earn First Sweep - Fayetteville Marksmen
- Rumble Called up to ECHL Norfolk - Peoria Rivermen
- Marksmen Join Forces with Fort Bragg for 21st Annual Operation Toy Drop - Fayetteville Marksmen
- Havoc Record First Shutout of the Season 5-0 against Ice Bears - Huntsville Havoc
- Rail Yard Dawgs Game Notes: Rail Yard Dawgs (5-7-0) vs Mayhem (11-2-2) - 7:05 PM - Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs
- Preview: Mayhem at Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs (Game 16) - Macon Mayhem
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
