After
dropping the first game in this series, the RoadRunners (8-1-1)
definitely had some work to do if they were going to take the next two
games against the Jackalopes (3-5-1). Fortunately, working is their
strong suit. In a game that was emblematic of the series as a whole,
Topeka fell behind, rallied and held on for a hard earned 3-2 victory.
For
much of the first period, it looked like it was not going to be the
RoadRunner’s night. Odessa wasted little time in jumping on the board as
Pat Thompson scored unassisted at 3:41 to put the Jackalopes on top
1-0. At 10:08, Tyler Cayemberg would add another, sliding the puck past
Spencer Viele for a 2-0 lead. Topeka needed a shift in momentum going
into the first intermission.
Cue Sean Gaffney.
On
a powerplay late in the period, Gaffney powered one past Andrew Pikul
to cut the Jackalope lead to 2-1 at 17:33. The RoadRunners hit the ice
in the second period with new life. Trace Strahle would capitalize on a
shorthanded opportunity at 8:05 to tie the score at two. Just over two
minutes later, Drew Kariofiles grabbed the lead, scoring despite
Odessa’s extra attacker, making it 3-2 RoadRunners at 10:21.
From
there the defense held its own, fighting off a two-man disadvantage in
the closing minutes to hold off the Jackalopes and taking the three game
series two games to one.
The
RoadRunners will contend with a quick turnaround this week as they
board the bus for Texas on Wednesday, beginning their two game set
against the Tornado on Thursday night at 7:30. Fans not able to make the
trip are invited to enjoy the games on Thursday and Saturday at Blind
Tiger Brewery and Restaurant. The next game at Landon Arena will be
October 19th against the Springfield Junior Blues.
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