JOHNSTOWN – The Johnstown Tomahawks defeated the Aston Rebels 3-2 in an overtime thriller at the Cambria County War Memorial Arena, Saturday night.
The Rebels got on the board first when Dom Garcia deflected a shot past Tomahawks goalie Andrew Lindgren on the power play.
Aston increased its lead to 2-0 after a Michael Merulla goal at 10:22 of the first period. The goal was assisted Brendan Kapcheck.
During the second period, play was delayed following a check on Aston forward Austin Swingle. Swingle was treated by medical personnel and was transported to a local medical facility as precaution.
No goals were scored during the 4:51 that was played following intermission.
The Tomahawks scored their first goal of the night to bring the score to 2-1 when Anthony Parrucci tipped a puck past Rebels goalie Darion Hanson.
Johnstown continued to build momentum and eventually tied the game when Luke Lynch fired a wrist shot into the back of the net. The goal set the franchise record for goals scored in a season with 24.
Both teams exchanged chances as regulation came to a close.
In 3-on-3 overtime, the Tomahawks completed the comeback when Tommy Horn capitalized on a Parrucci rebound, winning the game 3-2 in overtime.
Lindgren stopped 22 Rebels shots en route to his tenth win of the season. In defeat, Micucci saved 17 Johnstown shots.
The Tomahawks take to the road next week but return home Friday, March 11 for Faith & Family Night against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Knights. Tickets are available at the War Memorial Box Office, by calling 1-800-745-3000, or by visiting www.johnstowntomahawks.com