Wheeling Penalty Kill Helps to Earn a Point Against Thunder

GLENS FALLS, NY- The Wheeling Nailers put forth one of their best efforts of the season on the penalty kill, and it helped them earn a point on the road against the Adirondack Thunder at Cool Insuring Arena. Wheeling killed all eight Adirondack power plays, while receiving goals from Reid Gardiner and Troy Josephs. However, the Thunder escaped with the bonus point, as Desmond Bergin scored just 20 seconds into overtime, lifting the home team to a 3-2 win.

The Nailers put forth a strong effort on the penalty kill during the first period, thwarting three opportunities for Adirondack. After the third kill, Wheeling used the momentum to lead to the opening goal. Reid Gardiner broke up a play in the defensive zone, then proceeded to lead a 3-on-2 rush up the ice. Gardiner kept the puck to himself, sniping in a shot from the left circle.

One goal was scored in the middle frame, as the Thunder pulled even, sending the contest into the third with a 1-1 deadlock. A big scramble for the puck took place around the crease, with Mathieu Brodeur chipping away for Adirondack. Brodeur's final whack trickled the puck out into the left slot, where Brian Ward spike a shot into the cage.

Both clubs found the net in the third period, exchanging goals less than two minutes apart from each other. Wheeling's tally came from Troy Josephs, who wound through the slot to the left circle, where he zipped home a go-ahead goal. Ward's second of the day was the equalizer for Adirondack, as he shelved a drop pass from Shane Conacher.

The tightly played match needed overtime to be decided, and just 20 seconds into the extra session, the Thunder prevailed. James Henry battled the puck free to Desmond Bergin, who lit the lamp from the right side for the 3-2 final.

Drew Fielding got the win in goal for Adirondack, making 31 saves on 33 shots. Adam Morrison helped the Nailers earn a point in the overtime defeat, stopping 27 of the 30 shots he faced.

The Nailers will head home for the next four games, beginning with a WesBanco Winning Wednesday against the Worcester Railers on March 21st at 7:05. The next big promotional game is Fan Appreciation Night on March 31st at 7:05 against the Manchester Monarchs. Fan Appreciation Night will feature a diamond ring giveaway for one lucky fan, a team trading card set for the first 2,500 fans, a full team post game autograph session, and various prizes throughout the game. There is also a Family Four Pack for Fan Appreciation Night, in which fans can get four tickets, four hats, and four McDonald's Meal Vouchers for $56. To purchase tickets, or to get more information about season tickets, flex plans, group tickets, and more, call (304) 234-GOAL.