WHEELING, WV – Goaltending took center stage on Saturday night, as the Wheeling Nailers and Quad City Mallards put forth a tremendous battle at WesBanco Arena. Brian Foster and Brody Hoffman combined to deny 59 of the 62 shots they faced, and Riley Brace’s goal with 6.5 seconds remaining in the first period provided the difference in a 2-1 triumph for Wheeling.
The Nailers had a tremendous first period, as they outshot Quad City, 12-6, while putting a couple of pucks in the back of the net. The first goal came courtesy of the power play, as Clark Seymour let a shot go from the middle of the blueline. The first attempt was blocked, but the rebound tipped out to Sahir Gill, who immediately deposited his second goal of the year. Then, with 6.5 seconds left, Wheeling added to its lead. Derek Army and Jarrett Burton set up Riley Brace, who rocketed a shot off of the left post and into the net.
One goal was scored in the second period, as the Mallards cut their deficit to one, connecting on the power play. Austin Coldwell centered a pass from the right wing wall, which was redirected along the ice and into the cage by Matt Neal. The Nailers produced 15 more shots in the middle frame to Quad City’s ten, opening a 27-16 advantage in that category.
Wheeling continued to pepper the goal in the third period, but neither goalie was willing to budge, and the final score stood, with the Nailers grabbing the 2-1 victory.
Brian Foster was the winner for Wheeling, as he made 23 saves on 24 shots. Brody Hoffman also turned in a stellar performance for Quad City, blocking away 36 of the 38 shots he faced.
The Nailers will conclude their three-game homestand on Friday against the Kalamazoo Wings at 7:35.
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