Pirates Edge Bears in Triple Overtime

April 28, 2016

HERSHEY, Pa. – Rob Flick scored at 3:10 of triple overtime, sending the Portland Pirates to a 2-1 victory over the Hershey Bears on Thursday night at GIANT Center.  The Pirates take a two games to one series lead, with game four slated for Saturday night.

It took more than one full period to get the game’s first goal, and it was Hershey getting the job done.  The Bears entered the Portland zone on a four-on-three rush, and after several quick passes, Nathan Walker collected the puck in the mid-slot and let a snap shot go that sailed over Mike McKenna’s glove at 5:27.

Hershey was forced to the penalty kill for a season-high six times in the middle frame, and both units came up huge, denying all 14 shots Portland tried.

Greg McKegg would tie the game at 6:28 of the third.  Forced around the net, McKegg was able to get a wraparound shot off.  The puck deflected off of Justin Peters’ skate and into the net.

The first two overtimes were about as even as could be.  Neither team gave up many odd-man chances all night, but Portland eventually ended the game that way.  Carrying the puck down the left-wing boards, Corban Knight floated a saucer pass over a stick and onto Flick’s tape.  The one-timer clanged off the inside of the right post and in, giving the Pirates the win.

Hershey’s penalty kill was perfect on nine chances in the game, while the Pirates were perfect on seven.  The goaltenders ended up grabbing two of the three stars and rightfully so.  Peters made 42 saves on 44 shots, but his record evened at 1-1.  McKenna improved to 2-1 with 41 saves for Portland.

Game four of this series will be played on Saturday, April 30 at 7:00 PM.  Tickets are available at the GIANT Center box office, by calling (717) 508-BEAR or online at TicketMaster.com.