In a thrilling SPHL showdown, the Birmingham Bulls faced the Macon Mayhem at the Macon Centreplex with both teams showcasing grit and determination. However, it would be one team’s power play efficiency that ultimately would be the deciding factor.
First Period:
In the opening period, the Birmingham Bulls surged ahead with a goal from Michael Gillespie at 13:28. The Macon Mayhem swiftly countered with a power play goal from Amedeo Mastrangeli at 16:36, which was his inaugural professional goal. Nonetheless, Birmingham reclaimed the lead with another power play goal by Carson Rose, concluding the period with a score of 2-1.
There were several key penalties recorded in this period. Kyler Matthews from the Bulls received a 2-minute penalty for holding at 5:49 and Carson Rose was penalized for interference at 15:56. Dan Winslow from Macon was given a 2-minute penalty for high-sticking at 18:04. Finally, Matt Clark from the Bulls was penalized for roughing at 18:44.
Shots on Goal:
Macon: 13
Birmingham: 7
Second Period:
The second period began at a slower pace, but Macon quickly equalized the score at 2-2 thanks to a goal from Alex Cohen at 14:32. Birmingham regained the lead once again with a power play goal by Kolten Olynek at 18:01. That goal came with assists from the Ledziankou brothers, Arkhip and Filimon, wrapping up the period at 3-2.
Shots on Goal:
Macon: 9
Birmingham: 13
Third Period:
In the third, the first goal early when Tao Ishizuka scored for Macon, evening the score at 3-3 , with assists from Dan Winslow and Nick Magill-Diaz during the power play. The excitement continued, and at 7:32, when the Bulls responded with a goal by Drake Glover, assisted by Michael Gillespie and Taylor Brierley, putting the Bulls ahead by one. Despite their efforts the Mayhem would fall just short of the win, ending the game at 4-3 in favor of the Bulls.
Shots on Goal:
Macon: 7
Birmingham: 4
Birmingham showcased a strong performance with Michael Gillespie contributing significantly by scoring a goal and providing two assists, while Glover added a goal and an assist of his own. Kolten Olynek also made his mark by netting a power play goal. On the other hand, Macon had notable efforts from Mastrangeli and Ishizuka, who both found the back of the net, while Matteo Ybarra stood out for his solid defensive play.
The game had several momentum shifts, with both teams taking turns leading. Macon managed to tie the game multiple times, but Birmingham’s effective power play ultimately made that momentum swing their sway by game’s end. Birmingham also capitalized on multiple power play opportunities, which were pivotal.
Total Shots Per Team:
- Birmingham: 24
- Macon: 29
Penalties:
- Birmingham: 12 minutes after six infractions
- Macon: 10 minutes after five infractions
Goaltending:
Austin Lotz of the Birmingham Bulls showcased an impressive performance in goal, successfully stopping 26 out of 29 shots, which proved crucial for the slim victory by the Bulls. Josh Boyko of the Macon Mayhem faced 24 shots, saving 20, yet had difficulty countering Birmingham’s formidable power play. It was Birmingham’s power play effectiveness that ultimately tipped the scales in their favor.
Defense for Macon:
Nick Magill-Diaz and Tanner Hopps stood out for their strong defensive performance. Magill-Diaz has been a significant addition to the team this season. Despite facing challenges from numerous penalties, the defense worked hard to keep Macon competitive.
Three Stars of the Game
- Macon – Matteo Ybarra
- Macon – Amedeo Mastrangeli
- Macon – Tao Ishizuka
Final Score: Birmingham Bulls 4, Macon Mayhem 3
The Mayhem will host the Fayetteville Marksmen at home on October 25th, with a 7 PM puck drop.
