Columbus, GA – The Columbus River Dragons defeated the Athens Rock Lobsters in regulation Saturday night, 8–4.
The first period was evenly played by the River Dragons and the Rock Lobsters. Tyler Barrow, Chiwetin Blacksmith, and Kevin Szabad recorded goals for the River Dragons.
Brandon Picard and Eric Neiley scored goals for the Rock Lobsters and Joe Mack tied the game with a buzzer beater, closing the first period tied, 3-3.
The second period was dominated by the River Dragons. Tyler Barrow scored for Columbus, and Ryan Hunter buried one on a power play, pulling ahead of Athens by two to close the second frame, 5-3.
The final period of regulation saw a quick response from Athens, when Joe Mack scored the Rock Lobsters’ fourth and final goal of the night 79 seconds into the frame.
Columbus responded three times. Benjamin Pizzimenti squeezed one in past Athens goaltender William Lavalliere at 9:47. Alex Storjohann and Ryan Galvin poured salt on Athens’ wounds, each producing shorthanded goals.
The night ended with the River Dragons taking their first W against the Rock Lobsters this season, claiming victory in regulation, 8-4.
Tyler Roy faced 38 shots by Athens, producing an 89.47 SV% for the night.
Ryan Hunter, Benjamin Pizzimenti, Josh Colten, Alexander Jmaeff, Mike Winn, and Alex Storjohann recorded multiple points for Columbus, leading to their regulation victory.
The River Dragons prepare to face off against the Twin City Thunderbirds on Friday at home, marking their fifth matchup this season. Puck drop is scheduled to take place at the Columbus Civic Center on Friday at 7:35 pm.
The Rock Lobsters will battle the Pee Dee Ice Cats at home on Saturday.
Photos by Toni Rae Hill
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