ECHL Wheeling Nailers

Wheeling Does It Again, Wins Sixth Straight

March 28, 2007 - ECHL (ECHL)
Wheeling Nailers News Release


DAYTON, OH - Cody Blanshan scored twice, including 1:02 into overtime, as the Wheeling Nailers beat the first place Dayton Bombers 3-2 Tuesday night. The Nailers increased their season-high win streak to six games and now sit just three points behind the Reading Royals for the final playoff spot.

The Dayton Bombers scored first just 1:13 into the game on a goal the referee needed some help on. Paul Kelly's shot bounced in and out of the net so quickly that it appeared to have hit the post. Play continued as the goal light was turned on. The referee called time after the puck was cleared and conversed with his linesman and the goal judge before signaling goal.

A power-play goal for Wheeling tied the game as Blanshan picked up his first goal since December 23. His shot from the faceoff circle deflected off a stick and fluttered over the shoulder of Terry Denike. Jon Smyth and Ryan Moren were credited with assists at 8:48 of the first.

Still in the first the Bombers took the lead back. A dump-in bounced off the boards and sat in the slot for Joe Cullen on the power play. Dayton had two goals on five shots in the first period but Andy Franck would hold the Bombers scoreless for the rest of the game.

Bernie Chmiel tied the game 2-2 1:51 into the third period. Eric Sonnenberg's shot and Chmiel's initial rebound were stopped by Denike but Chmiel was able to fight the puck in on his second attempt. It was just his second goal of the season.

Franck stopped 21 shots in the third period to force overtime where Blanshan ended it. Ryan Moren set him up on a one-timer that was deflected over the net. It banked off the glass, hit the back of Denike, standing in the crease, and rolled into the goal.

It was the first time this season that the Nailers won in Dayton in four trips. Wheeling is now 3-7 on the year with Dayton and their final meeting of the season will be next Tuesday back at the Nutter Center.

Wheeling returns home for games this Friday and Saturday against the Cincinnati Cyclones. Friday night is Steelers Night at WesBanco Arena as Tunch Ilkin and Craig Wolfley will sign autographs starting at 6:30p.m.

Saturday's game will be televised on WTOV 9 starting at 8p.m. It is Beach Party Night as fans who wear beach attire will be able to purchase $8 tickets at the box office. The All-American Girls will be in attendance and signing their calendars as well.

Call 304-234-GOAL to place your ticket orders or visit www.wheelingnailers.com.

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ECHL Stories from March 28, 2007


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