TULSA, Okla. – The Idaho Steelheads secured a 4-2 victory over the Tulsa Oilers in a thrilling ice hockey game held at the BOK Center on Friday, January 26, 2024. The competitive clash unfolded before a crowd of 5,499 passionate fans.
Tulsa Oilers defenseman Jared Hilderman (3), Tulsa Oilers goalie Julian Junca (30), Idaho Steelheads forward Will Merchant (28)
The first period set the tone for the match, with Idaho taking a 2-1 lead. Will Merchant and Lincoln Erne contributed the opening goals for the Steelheads. Erne’s precise wrist shot from the right point, coupled with a well-timed deflection by Merchant, set the score at 1-0. Shortly after, at 12:23, Erne fired another shot into the net, extending the lead to 2-0. Tulsa’s Dante Sheriff managed to narrow the gap with a breakaway goal, leaving the score at 2-1. The period featured 16-9 shots in favor of Idaho and no penalties.
Tulsa Oilers forward Dante Sheriff (29), Idaho Steelheads goalie Bryan Thomson (30), Idaho Steelheads defenseman Trevor Zins (2)
The second period remained scoreless, with Tulsa dominating shots at 11-5. Despite three power-play opportunities for the Steelheads and a successful penalty kill of two attempts, the scoreboard remained unchanged.
Tulsa Oilers forward Dante Sheriff (29)
The third period saw Idaho extending their lead to 3-1 at the hands of Jade Miller, who capitalized on a scoring chance at the top of the crease. Wade Murphy further widened the gap to 4-1 with a well-executed one-timer from the high slot, assisted by A.J. White. Tulsa’s Jared Power managed to score with 2:34 left in regulation, but the Oilers fell short.
Tulsa Oilers forward Jared Power (84)
Bryan Thomson, the Steelheads’ goaltender, made an impressive 38 saves on 40 shots, securing the win. On the opposing side, Julian Junca stopped 18 of the 22 shots he faced in the Oilers’ loss. Despite a late surge from Tulsa, the Idaho Steelheads emerged victorious, successfully defending against all penalty attempts and showcasing their prowess on the ice.
Tulsa Oilers forward Dallas Comeau (28), Idaho Steelheads goalie Bryan Thomson (30), Idaho Steelheads forward Bailey Conger (72)
Tulsa Oilers forward Michael Farren (26), Idaho Steelheads defenseman Nick Canade (3), Idaho Steelheads goalie Bryan Thomson (30)
Notes:
- Idaho went 0-for-3 on the power-play while Tulsa was 0-for-4.
- Tulsa outshot Idaho 40-22.
- Idaho is 22-14-4 all-time vs. Tulsa and 13-8-2 in Tulsa.
- Will Merchant recorded his 100th career assist as a Steelhead finishing the game with a goal and two assists.
Contact the photographer: Les.Stockton@prohockeynews.com
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