JOHNSTOWN – The Johnstown Tomahawks put up a hard fight in their 2016-17 home opener but ultimately fell to the Aston Rebels 3-2 Friday night at the Cambria County War Memorial Arena.
The Rebels scored the game’s first goal when Mariano Picariello’s wrist shot from the blue line deflected off Tomahawks goalie Drew Hotte’s glove an into the net 8:42 into the first period.
Sixteen seconds into the second period, the Tomahawks scored the equalizer. Josh Biasillo deflected a point shot from Adam Pilewicz behind Rebels goaltender Mareks Mitens. Tiernan Seningen registered the secondary assist.
The Rebels regained their lead with a Gianluca Esteves power play goal. Ryan Solomon and Aaron Maguyon assisted on the goal.
Aston took a two-goal lead midway through the third period after Jense Zerban buried a pass from Adam Peck behind Hotte. Brendan Cherwalk picked up the other assist.
Johnstown wouldn’t go away as they cut the deficit to 3-2 when Mitchell pounced on a rebound with over three minutes left in the third period. Andrew Quetell and Pilewicz registered the assist.
In the win, Mitens stopped 21 shots on goal to move his record to 13-2-0. Hotte picked up the loss for a 5-2-1 overall record.
The Tomahawks are back in action Saturday night against the Aston Rebels for Faith & Family and Scout Night. Additionally, fans are encouraged to bring canned food to donate to local shelters. In exchange for their generosity, the Tomahawks will give fans a souvenir Tomahawks poster.