“We liked the way we played these first two games and everyone has each other’s back,” Davis, who was the number one star of the game with a Gordie Howe hat trick, said. “We’re a skilled group and we work hard and the sky is the limit for this team.”
Displaying a knack for scoring early, forward Josh Winquist registered the Grizzlies’ first goal of the game for a second consecutive night, giving the home team an early 1-0 advantage. Utah demonstrated defensive prowess in their zone, limiting passing lanes and limiting the number of quality chances for the outmatched Rush.
For fans worried that the departure of Travis Howe would lead to fewer on ice fights, not to worry. Fisticuffs were abundant as Teigan Zahn, Gage Ausmus, and even Ryan Walters were in the center of several melees in a penalty driven first period.
Rapid City would fight back and although the Rush couldn’t capitalize on a two man advantage, they managed a power play goal off the stick of Steven Terasuk and would score in the third period shorthanded to cut the deficit to two goals.
However, the Rush couldn’t refrain from the penalty box and Friday night’s number one star Caleb Herbert  took advantage of a five-on-three power play. Matt Berry got his second of the night just seconds after Herbert as Utah continued to add fuel to the fire.
“It’s pretty clear that we have a lot of firepower on this team and the key will be to continue to bring that work ethic each and every night,” head coach Tim Branham said. “The confidence level is through the roof and we’ll rest up and get ready for Idaho.”
With Utah Grizzlies release
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