In an electric atmosphere of 8,200 Finatics, the Toledo Walleye staged a dramatic comeback to defeat the Wheeling Nailers. Overcoming an early two-goal deficit, the Walleye claimed a 3-2 victory. The matchup featured standout performances from both teams, but ultimately, it was the Walleye’s resilience that shone through.
Jan Bednar defended the home net for Toledo, and Sergei Murashov was between the pipes for Wheeling.
The Nailers took control early in the first period, with Mats Lindgren striking first at 5:59. Assisted by Sam Houde and Jared Westcott, Lindgren’s goal set the tone for Wheeling’s aggressive play. Just over six minutes later, Louie Roehl doubled the Nailers’ lead at 11:59, with assists coming from Houde and Matty de St. Phalle. With a 2-0 advantage, Wheeling seemed poised to build on their momentum.
However, the Walleye, known for their tenacity, responded swiftly. Just before the end of the first period, at 19:13, Brandon Hawkins, the all-time leading goal scorer in Toledo Walleye team history, found the back of the net, narrowing the gap to 2-1. The play was set up by a smart passing sequence from Mitchell Lewandowski and Jalen Smerek, giving Toledo a crucial lifeline as they headed into the intermission.
The second period saw both teams tightening their defenses, with Bednar and Murashov making several key saves to keep the game within reach. Toledo’s determination began to pay off at 10:07 when Sam Craggs tied the game up. This goal was Craggs’ first of the season.
Late in the second period, at 19:13, Hawkins scored a pivotal goal, his second of the game, which shifted the momentum in Toledo’s favor. With assists from Lewandowski and Smerek, Hawkins’ shot put the Walleye ahead and ignited the home crowd. The goal was a testament to Toledo’s resilience and ability to capitalize on their opportunities.
As the game moved into the third period, the Walleye focused on protecting their lead while the Nailers ramped up their offensive efforts, but neither side could find the back of the net.
Toledo finished the game with a total of 35 shots on goal compared to Wheeling’s 30, reflecting the competitive nature of the contest. Bednar’s key saves were crucial in maintaining the Walleye’s slim lead, while Murashov’s impressive performance kept Wheeling in the game until the end.
The Fish will return to the Huntington Center on Saturday, November 2nd, to take on the Cincinnati Cyclones. The puck drops at 7:15 p.m.
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