A second-period scoring surge by the Jamestown Ironmen led to a 3-2 victory over the Michigan Warriors on Friday night in North American Hockey League action at the Jamestown Savings Bank Arena.
After a scoreless first period, Jamestown (12-3-2) struck first with a goal by forward Ryan Urso 5:11 into the second period. Michigan quickly responded less than four minutes later, knotting the game at one goal apiece.
Dylan Zink and Tyler Dunagan each scored as the Ironmen tacked on two more goals to take a 3-1 lead heading into the final period of play. Michigan brought the score to within one when it scored a goal with less than two minutes remaining. It was too little, too late for the Warriors (3-14-0), as Jamestown held on to win and earn two points on the evening.
Article Photos
Ross Pavek of the Jamestown Ironmen tries to gain control of the puck while being shadowed by Michigan’s Zach O’Hara during Friday’s North American Hockey League game at the Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena. See additional photos at cu.post-journal.com.
P-J photos by Valory S. Isaacson
Jamestown had a slight edge in shots on goal, with 26 compared to Michigan's 23. Ironmen assists were credited to Matt Lanzillotti, Payden Mielke, Urso, Brett Szjaner, Ross Pavek and Evan Ritt. Tim Shaughnessy received the nod in goal for the hometown team and had a solid performance with 21 saves.
"A win is a win," said Jamestown Ironmen head coach and general manager Dan Daikawa. "We need to learn how to put the other team away when we have the opportunity, and not let them back into the game. We had a goal of getting two points tonight, and we got it. But, we will need to be better tomorrow night in order to win, because we know Michigan will be."
Daikawa's frustration sprouts from the fact that his team let Michigan hang around and nearly mount a comeback very late in the game. Despite the close call, the Ironmen are still on a roll, winning eight of their last nine games, with the only loss coming on the road last Friday.
The Ironmen still sit securely in first place in the NAHL North Division and haven't lost at the Jamestown Savings Bank Arena since their home opener on September 21. Last night's contest marked the best attended home game so far this season, and the Ironmen look to extend their home win streak as they face off against the Warriors tonight at 5.
NOTES:?It is Youth Sports Night at tonight's game; fans are encouraged to wear any area youth sports gear and they will receive a $2 discount off their ticket to the game. USA Hockey's ''Try Hockey for Free'' event will also take place earlier in the day from 3-4 p.m. It is designed to introduce the sport of hockey to kids, ages 4-9, for free. All participants in the event will receive a free ticket to tonight's Ironmen's game. For further information, contact the arena at 484-2624.