By Tanner Schafer
Spooner, WI – The Ice Dogs and Lumberjacks battled for the 2nd night in a row on Wednesday. Dryden GM pulled away late riding 3 3rd period goals to a 5-1 victory.
After giving up 3 quick goals in last nights game, the Ice Dogs entered this one with a renewed emphasis on sound defensive play. It was evident from the first puck drop as Dryden GM outshot Wisconsin 15-7 in the first frame. The lone goal came halfway through the 1st period when Kaden Bandura found the back of the net giving the Ice Dogs a 1-0 lead. Bandura was assisted by McLaren Paulson and Rhys Maksimow on the play. It was also a clean 1st period as no penalties were assessed to either team.
The Lumberjacks looked to make it a game headed into the 2nd period, 5 minutes in Ryder McMillen found paydirt with a goal assisted by Dylan Olsen and Salvatore Poggiali. A costly breakdown just 30 seconds later would give the Ice Dogs the lead for good. Ben Hackl would score an unassisted short-handed goal making the score 2-1.Both teams locked down their defensive zones and the score stayed the same heading into the 3rd period. Brady Fattinger scored back to back goals for the 2nd night in a row in the final frame. His 1st came 2 and a half minutes in, with assists going to Ryland Maier and Hackle. The 2 players would also pick up a 2nd assist on Frattinger’s next goal, a power play marker that made it 4-1. James Hooton scored the final tally just before the halfway point making the score 5-1.
It was a great defensive effort for Dryden GM, holding Wisconsin to only 19 shots on goal, 18 of which were stopped by Zac McDonald. William Forrester made 37 saves in a losing effort. Dryden GM heads back home for a weekend series with the 1st place Kam River Fighting Walleye, while the Lumberjacks host the Sioux Lookout Bombers on Friday and Saturday.