Vay Spoils Wheeling's Return Home

WHEELING, WV- The Quad City Mallards had defense and goaltending down to a science on Friday night, as they visited WesBanco Arena for a tilt with the Wheeling Nailers. Nolan LaPorte put Quad City on the scoreboard with less than ten second remaining in the first period, and while the visitors scored two insurance goals, that turned out to be all the Mallards needed. Adam Vay blanked Wheeling on 22 shots in a 3-0 result.

The majority of the first period was evenly played, but a late surge by the Mallards resulted in the game's opening goal with under ten seconds left in the stanza. Michael Parks carried the puck out of the right corner, then proceeded to center a pass into the slot. The recipient of the feed was Nolan LaPorte, who was on his forehand side, allowing him to slam a one-timer into the left side of the cage.

Quad City upped its lead in the middle frame, scoring twice in a span of 1:16. The first tally came courtesy of defenseman Donnie Harris, who stepped up from the blueline, and let a wrist shot go from the right wall, which squeezed into the right side of the net. Next on the scoresheet was Brady Brassart, who, in the process of being tackled to the ice, was able to deflect a Kevin Gibson pass into the vacant right side of the goal.

The stellar defensive performance continued for the Mallards in the third period, as they limited the Nailers to seven shots in the frame and 22 in the game, carrying a 3-0 final score into the books.

Adam Vay got the shutout in goal for Quad City, turning aside all 22 shots he faced. Sean Maguire took the loss for Wheeling, making 27 saves on 30 shots.

The Nailers and Mallards will meet again at WesBanco Arena on Saturday at 7:05 for Duck Dynasty Night. John Godwin and Justin Martin will be on hand from the show, and the first 2,500 fans will get a free camouflage hat. Additionally, starting at 3:00, fans can get their heads shaved in support of the St. Baldrick's Foundation. Wheeling will also be at home on Sunday at 5:05 against Toledo for a Family Funday, featuring $6 kids tickets and a post game skate with the team. To purchase tickets, or to get more information about season tickets, group tickets, and more, call (304) 234-GOAL.