WHEELING, WV- The Wheeling Nailers welcomed a sellout crowd on Education Day for the fourth straight season, as 5,167 fans packed WesBanco Arena for Tuesday morning's tilt against the Toledo Walleye. Wheeling took the division-leading Walleye down to the finish, but Toledo was able to come away with the two points, as Kevin Tansey snapped a 1-1 tie with 16:27 left for a 2-1 decision. Kaden Fulcher made 32 saves in the win, with Troy Josephs netting the lone goal for the Nailers.
After a scoreless first period, both teams got on the board in the middle frame. Toledo was the first to strike, doing so with a 4-on-4 marker at 4:51. TJ Hensick snapped a pass through the low slot to Greg Wolfe, who roofed a shot just under the crossbar. The Nailers responded less than four minutes later with the equalizer. Aaron Titcomb drove the puck toward the net, where Cam Brown and Troy Josephs swatted away in search of a rebound. Josephs had the final say, lifting in his sixth goal in seven games.
Wheeling's penalty kill put forth a strong showing, denying the Walleye on seven of eight chances. Unfortunately, the lone power play goal ended up deciding the contest. Kevin Tansey drove home a one-timer from the top of the right circle off a feed from former Nailer Daniel Leavens. Toledo's defense and goaltending held on the rest of the way, as the visitors prevailed, 2-1.
Kaden Fulcher earned the win in goal for the Walleye, turning aside 32 of the 33 shots he faced. John Muse played well for the Nailers, making 21 saves on 23 shots.
The Nailers will head out on a three-game road trip this weekend, as they will visit Jacksonville on Friday at 7:30, South Carolina on Saturday at 7:05, and Greenville on Sunday at 3:00. Wheeling's next home game is Thanksgiving Eve - November 21st at 7:05 against the Reading Royals. That night will feature $2 beers, and will also be Marvel Super Hero Night. Another exciting upcoming promotion is NailerMania, with special guest Mick Foley on Saturday, December 15th. The Wheeling Nailers, considered one of the top things to do in Wheeling, West Virginia, provide affordable family entertainment for fans throughout the Ohio Valley. For information on season tickets, group tickets, flex plans, and more, call (304) 234-GOAL.