The Peoria Rivermen and Macon Mayhem faced off in a thrilling weekend series that brought intense competition and high-energy hockey to the ice. The Rivermen, making their first visit to Macon since 2019, came in with a determined mindset despite being short-handed on defense. The games were marked by physical play, strategic adjustments, and standout performances from key players on both sides. Peoria’s offensive firepower and resilient defense were on full display, while Macon showcased strong goaltending and a relentless effort to stay in the fight.
Key Performances from Friday Night’s Game (12/13/2024)
It was November 5, 2019, when the Rivermen made their last trip to Macon. Despite having only four healthy defensemen, they started the series strong on Friday night. Tristan Trudel scored his third goal of the season just over two minutes into the game, assisted by Braydon Barker. Macon tied the game with a goal from Jarret Kup, assisted by Jacob Schnapp. The second period saw both teams tighten up defensively, with no goals scored. In the third period, Peoria’s Alec Baer scored to give them the lead, but Macon’s Matteo Ybarra tied it up with an unassisted goal. Ultimately, Braydon Barker scored the game-winning goal with just over two minutes left, securing a victory for Peoria.
Several Macon Mayhem players delivered standout performances. Justin Kelley was a key offensive contributor, scoring a power-play goal and adding an assist. Jacob Schnapp was active in creating scoring opportunities, providing an assist on Kelley’s goal. Jarret Kup demonstrated his ability to capitalize on rebounds by scoring a goal to tie the game in the first period. Matteo Ybarra showcased his individual skill and determination with an unassisted goal in the third period to tie the game once again. Despite the loss, goaltender Dysen Skinner made several key saves to keep Macon in the game until he left the game in the third period due to an injury (cramping). These players were instrumental in Macon’s efforts to compete against Peoria, contributing both offensively and defensively throughout the game.
Saturday, December 14 (How the Grinch Stole Hockey)
December 14, 2024
1st Period
The first period was intense and physical, with both teams eager to set the tone. The Macon Mayhem took an early lead with a power-play goal by Justin Kelley at 16:57, assisted by Jacob Schnapp and Brodie Thornton. Peoria Rivermen racked up 25 minutes of penalties in this period alone, including a 10-minute misconduct for Tristan Trudel. Other penalties included tripping, verbal abuse of an official, roughing, cross-checking, and boarding. Both teams had 8 shots on goal, and Macon also faced penalties for roughing and slashing. Peoria came out hot for the series, and both teams were feisty on the ice, leading to a highly competitive and physical game.
Shots on Goal: Peoria 8, Macon 8
Penalties: Peoria 6, Macon 2
Powerplay Results: Peoria 0/2, Macon 1/4
2nd Period
Peoria Rivermen came back strong in the second period, showcasing their offensive capabilities. Chase Spencer scored at 0:33, assisted by Cale List and Alec Baer. Alec Baer then scored a power-play goal at 3:56, assisted by Jordan Ernst and Cale List. Michael McChesney added a short-handed goal at 10:42, assisted by Mike Gelatt. Macon managed to score a goal at 19:45 by Jacob Schnapp, assisted by Conor Witherspoon. Peoria had 12 shots on goal compared to Macon’s 5. Penalties included slashing, hooking, delay of game, and interference.
Shots on Goal: Peoria 12, Macon 5
Penalties: Peoria 2, Macon 3
Powerplay Results: Peoria 1/2, Macon 0/2
Intermission
During the intermission between the second and third periods, the Macon Mayhem staff put on a fantastic show. The Grinch made a special appearance, showing off that he had “stolen” the team’s jerseys, which added a fun and festive twist to the game. This well-done production by the Macon Mayhem staff was a hit with the fans and added to the overall excitement of the evening.
3rd Period
The final period saw an exciting start as the Macon Mayhem switched from their red Santa jerseys to green Grinch jerseys. Just 10 seconds into the period, Tao Ishizuka scored, assisted by Dan Winslow and Justin Kelley. Peoria responded quickly with Alec Baer’s game-winning goal at 0:44, assisted by Frank Trazzera and Jordan Ernst. Carlos Fornaris sealed the game with an empty-net goal at 19:18, assisted by Chase Spencer. Peoria dominated with 16 shots on goal, while Macon had 7. There were no penalties in this period.
Shots on Goal: Peoria 16, Macon 7
Penalties: None
Powerplay Results: None
Total Stats
- Shots on Goal: Peoria 36, Macon 20
- Powerplay Results: Peoria 1/4, Macon 1/6
- Penalties: Peoria 29 minutes / 9 infractions, Macon 15 minutes / 6 infractions
Goals
- Peoria Rivermen: Chase Spencer (assisted by Cale List and Alec Baer), Alec Baer (2) (assisted by Jordan Ernst and Cale List; Frank Trazzera and Jordan Ernst), Michael McChesney (assisted by Mike Gelatt), Carlos Fornaris (assisted by Chase Spencer)
- Macon Mayhem: Justin Kelley (assisted by Jacob Schnapp and Brodie Thornton), Jacob Schnapp (assisted by Conor Witherspoon), Tao Ishizuka (assisted by Dan Winslow and Justin Kelley)
Match-Up Results for December 14, 2024
- Peoria Rivermen: 5
- Macon Mayhem: 3
Total Stats
- Shots on Goal: Peoria 36, Macon 20
- Powerplay Results: Peoria 1/4, Macon 1/6
- Penalties: Peoria 29 minutes / 9 infractions, Macon 15 minutes / 6 infractions
Goals
- Peoria Rivermen: Chase Spencer (assisted by Cale List and Alec Baer), Alec Baer (2) (assisted by Jordan Ernst and Cale List; Frank Trazzera and Jordan Ernst), Michael McChesney (assisted by Mike Gelatt), Carlos Fornaris (assisted by Chase Spencer)
- Macon Mayhem: Justin Kelley (assisted by Jacob Schnapp and Brodie Thornton), Jacob Schnapp (assisted by Conor Witherspoon), Tao Ishizuka (assisted by Dan Winslow and Justin Kelley)
Summary
Peoria Rivermen
The Peoria Rivermen showcased a strong and resilient performance, especially in the second and third periods. Their offense was relentless, outshooting Macon 36 to 20. Peoria’s penalty kill was effective, allowing only one power-play goal out of six opportunities for Macon. Despite facing numerous penalties, Peoria managed to maintain their composure and secure a victory. Their ability to capitalize on key moments and maintain pressure throughout the game was evident.
Macon Mayhem
The Macon Mayhem started strong but struggled to maintain their lead as Peoria’s offense intensified. Despite their efforts, they were outshot by Peoria and couldn’t capitalize on their power-play opportunities, converting only one out of six. Macon’s defense faced challenges, particularly in the second period. Overall, Macon showed moments of strong play but couldn’t keep up with Peoria’s offensive pressure.
Sunday, December 15 (Salute to Service)
1st Period
The first period was a defensive battle, with both teams playing strong and determined hockey. Peoria fired 19 shots on goal, but Macon’s goaltender, Bailey Brkin, stood tall, making several impressive saves to keep the game scoreless. Macon managed only 4 shots on goal, struggling to break through Peoria’s defense. The period was also marked by several penalties, including a delay of game for Macon’s Thomas McGuire and a bench minor for Peoria for too many men on the ice. A major altercation at 14:06 resulted in a game misconduct for Peoria’s Renat Dadadzhanov and a match penalty for Macon’s Matteo Ybarra, adding to the intensity of the game.
Shots on Goal: Peoria 19, Macon 4
Penalties: Peoria 3, Macon 3
Powerplay Results: Peoria 0/2, Macon 0/1
2nd Period
Peoria took control in the second period, showcasing their offensive prowess. Chase Spencer opened the scoring at 1:29 with a power-play goal, assisted by Cale List and Carlos Fornaris. The Rivermen continued to press, and at 14:00, Griffen Fox found the back of the net, with assists from Carlos Fornaris and Jordan Ernst. Zach Wilkie added a third goal at 16:35, assisted by Michael McChesney and Garrett Devine. Amidst the action, Jacob Schnapp was grabbed from behind and around the neck, but no penalty was called after the brief altercation that ensued. Peoria dominated with 16 shots on goal, while Macon managed only 5.
Shots on Goal: Peoria 16, Macon 5
Penalties: Peoria 1, Macon 1
Powerplay Results: Peoria 1/2, Macon 0/1
3rd Period
The third period saw Peoria continue their dominance. Chase Spencer scored his second goal of the game at 13:05, assisted by Joseph Drapluk, further extending Peoria’s lead. Michael McChesney sealed the victory with an empty-net goal at 17:14. The period wasn’t without drama, as Bailey Brkin was taken down hard after a Peoria player slammed into him, knocking off his helmet and leaving him down for a few tense moments with under a minute left in the frame. Peoria outshot Macon 19 to 10 in this period, showcasing their relentless offensive pressure.
Shots on Goal: Peoria 19, Macon 10
Penalties: Peoria 1, Macon 1
Powerplay Results: None
Total Stats
- Shots on Goal: Peoria 54, Macon 19
- Powerplay Results: Peoria 1/4, Macon 0/3
- Penalties: Peoria 21 minutes / 5 infractions, Macon 21 minutes / 5 infractions
Goals
- Peoria Rivermen: Chase Spencer (2) (assisted by Cale List and Carlos Fornaris; Joseph Drapluk), Griffen Fox (assisted by Carlos Fornaris and Jordan Ernst), Zach Wilkie (assisted by Michael McChesney and Garrett Devine), Michael McChesney (empty net)
- Macon Mayhem: None
Match-Up Results for December 15, 2024
- Peoria Rivermen: 5
- Macon Mayhem: 0
Peoria Rivermen
The Peoria Rivermen showcased their offensive firepower and resilience in Sunday’s game. Their defense was solid, with Colby Muise delivering an exceptional performance in goal, stopping all 19 shots for a shutout. Peoria’s special teams were effective, capitalizing on a power-play opportunity and successfully killing all of Macon’s power plays. The team’s depth and versatility were evident, with multiple players providing crucial assists and creating scoring opportunities.
Macon Mayhem
Despite the loss, the Macon Mayhem demonstrated a strong goaltending effort, with Bailey Brkin making 49 saves on 53 shots. Their physical play was a key aspect, disrupting Peoria’s rhythm and maintaining intensity on the ice. Macon made defensive adjustments, managing to keep the game scoreless through the first period despite being heavily outshot. The team’s determination and effort were evident, particularly in their defensive zone. However, Macon needed to clean up their puck handling, especially their passing when gaining ground on offensive attacks, as turnovers and missed passes hindered their ability to capitalize on scoring chances.
Series Summary
The Peoria Rivermen dominated the series with strong offensive and defensive performances. Alec Baer was a standout player, contributing significantly with multiple goals and assists. Chase Spencer also had a notable impact, scoring crucial goals in both games, including a power-play goal and an empty-netter. Michael McChesney added to Peoria’s offensive firepower with goals and assists, while Carlos Fornaris consistently set up his teammates, leading to several key assists. On the defensive end, Colby Muise was solid in goal, especially in the shutout victory on December 15, stopping all 19 shots he faced. Despite Macon’s efforts, including notable performances from Justin Kelley and Jacob Schnapp, they struggled to keep up with Peoria’s relentless attack and strong penalty killing. The Rivermen’s ability to capitalize on power plays and maintain a high shot count were crucial factors in their victories.
Peoria Rivermen
Based on their recent performances, the Peoria Rivermen are well-positioned for future matchups. Their offensive depth and ability to generate high shot volumes will be key strengths. Players like Chase Spencer, Alec Baer, and Michael McChesney have shown they can consistently find the back of the net, making Peoria a formidable opponent. Defensively, Colby Muise’s strong goaltending provides a solid backbone, and their effective penalty killing will be crucial in tight games. Peoria’s ability to capitalize on power plays and maintain a high level of discipline will be essential in future matchups, especially against teams with strong special teams.
Macon Mayhem
For the Macon Mayhem, future matchups will require addressing some key areas based on their recent performances. While their goaltending has been strong, with Bailey Brkin making numerous saves, they need to improve their puck handling and passing, particularly during offensive attacks. Turnovers and missed passes have hindered their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Macon’s physical play and defensive adjustments are strengths they can build on, but they will need to clean up their execution and maintain consistency to compete effectively. Ensuring key players remain healthy and addressing any gaps in their lineup will also be important for their success in future games.
Overall, Peoria’s balanced attack and solid defense make them a tough opponent, while Macon will need to focus on improving their offensive execution and maintaining their defensive intensity to turn their performances around in future matchups.
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