JACKSONVILLE, FLA – On Wednesday, March 2nd, the Jacksonville Icemen hosted the Orlando Solar Bears in a South division rivalry game at the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena. Both teams entered the contest on losing/winless streaks so coming away with a win and two points was of the utmost concern. The contest turned into a showcase for the goaltenders, Orlando’s Brad Barone and Jacksonville’s Francois Brassard, put on a nearly flawless show. In the end, it was the visiting Solar Bears who came away with a 1-0 victory in front of an an announced crowd of 4,213.
For fifty minutes, the netminders put on a classic display of goaltending. Barone and Brassard combined for 15 saves and then another 23 in the second period. As the game went on, the chances at both ends grew increasingly more dangerous and the saves became more and more spectacular. Neither power play could produce anything, even a full two minute five-on-three advantage handed to Orlando late in the second.
Midway through the final frame, the visiting Solar Bears struck for what would be the only score of the night. It came when defenseman Luck McInnis’ shot from the point was deflected past Broussard by rookie Shawn Element for his first ECHL tally.
The Icemen dominated much of the remaining time looking for a tying score. Even with a late power play and Broussard pulled for an extra attacker, the Icemen were turned away by Barone, who was looking for his third 1-0 shutout win of the season. The game came down to the final seconds when Barone stopped shots by James Sanchez (two) and Jake Elmer a split second before the final horn sounded to seal the win.
Jacksonville’s Broussard finished the night with 26 saves on 27 shots while Barone denied all 28 shots he faced.
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