The Johnstown Tomahawks were defeated 3-2 in the shootout against the Maine Nordiques.
Tensions flared between the two NAHL East Division teams, evident after Friday night’s game one. Newcomer Chase Sandhu continued to impress, breaking the ice with the first goal of the game, assisted by Isaac Holt and Will Lawrence, giving the Tomahawks a one-goal lead. However, Maine responded with a goal of their own, leveling the score at one. As the first period ended, the Hawks and Nords headed to the locker room tied at one goal each, with both teams having 23 shots on goal.
Entering the second period, both teams were eager to gain an advantage and secure two crucial points. However, just a minute and twenty-seven seconds into the second period, Maine managed to find the back of the net. The Tomahawks’ penalty kill and power play units, which have consistently excelled throughout the season, continued to perform well in this evening’s match. With emotions running high between the two teams, both the penalty kill and power play units were called into action multiple times during the game. As the second period concluded, the Tomahawks found themselves heading to the locker room trailing by a goal.
Stepping onto the ice for a crucial third period, both goaltenders, who had faced numerous challenges in the game, understood the significance of the upcoming period. Five minutes into the third, Jaden Johnson leveled the game at two for the Tomahawks, assisted by Justin Rapp and Will Moore. Tomahawks goaltender Zack Ferris delivered yet another outstanding performance, making remarkable saves throughout the game. However, with the score tied at the end of regulation, the Johnstown Tomahawks and Maine Nordiques would proceed to overtime.
Certainly, the overtime standout was Zack Ferris, who successfully denied every shot attempted by the Nordiques. Both teams fiercely contested for a win, with the Tomahawks having opportunities but unable to find the net in overtime. As the extra period proved insufficient, the game progressed to a shootout. Ultimately, despite the Tomahawks’ determined efforts, Maine emerged victorious.
Your Johnstown Tomahawks are returning home to the 1ST SUMMIT Arena for a three-game homestand against the Rochester Jr. Americans. The games are scheduled for Friday at 7:30 PM, Saturday at 7:00 PM, and Sunday at 4:00 PM. Secure your tickets now at www.johnstowntomahawks.com! If you can’t make it to the game, catch the live action on NAHLTV. Stay connected with the latest updates on the Johnstown Tomahawks by following us on social media!