ALLEN, Texas – Before embarking on their longest road trip of the season (seven games), the Americans had to finish business at the Allen Event Center, on Star Wars night, against a struggling Wichita Thunder team. Allen came out victorious, beating the Thunder by a score of 5-3.
Allen’s Gary Steffes was able to capitalize on a beautiful set up from J.P. Lafontaine and Johnathan Parker. Steffes’ 15th goal on the year was the only tally in the first period. Joel Rumpel was once again starting in net, coming off of a highlight reel shutout win last night against the Utah Grizzlies. While Wichita was hard pressed to get shots on goal, Rumpel still stayed true to his recent form, turning aside all 6 Thunder shots on goal.
The second period was a fan’s dream. Featuring five total goals, the Americans finished the second frame with a 4-2 lead. Allen received contributions from Johnathan Parker (10th), Greger Hanson (15th), and Mike Gunn (2nd). Wichita was able to keep things close with tallies from Kale Kerbashian (7th) and Martin Nemcik (2nd).
Ian Lowe was able to draw the Thunder within one goal with just over eight minutes remaining in the game on a broken play that popped up and over the back of the net, off Rumpel, and in. Chris Crane was able to put the final nail in the coffin with an empty net goal.
The Americans are back in action after a long trip to Anchorage, where they will take on the Alaska Aces on Wednesday, February 10th, at 10:15 pm CST.
With Allen Americans release
Contact the photographer: Kimberly.Sauer@prohockeynews.com
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