THERE'S A FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING
HOUSTON – Saturday night’s game against the Houston Aeros at the Toyota Center marked the first time in franchise history that the Grand Rapids Griffins have dropped a 1-0 decision in overtime.
Despite the loss, Grand Rapids’ exceptional penalty killing unit was on display once again, extinguishing all six of Houston’s attempts. The Griffins (24-28-1-1) have denied 37 of their opponent’s last 40 (92.5%) power play attempts.
Grand Rapids will conclude a four-game road trip on Monday when they visit the Rockford IceHogs for a 3:05 p.m. EST face off at the Rockford MetroCentre.
After 60 minutes of scoreless hockey, a misleading shot count favored Houston (27-21-6-1) by a 33-22 count. The Griffins had a number of quality scoring chances but were unable to find the netting behind Barry Brust, whom they touched up for five goals on Friday.
Houston’s game-deciding tally came just 55 seconds into the overtime session. Maxim Noreau unleashed a slap shot from the point, and Jean-Michel Daoust gathered the rebound to bury a backhand shot from the top of the crease.
Both goaltenders provided stellar performances, as Daniel Larsson finished with 34 saves and Brust turned aside 22 shots for Houston.
Three Stars: 1. HOU Brust (22 saves); 2. GR Larsson (34 saves); 3. HOU Daoust (GW goal).
AHLlive Video Highlights |
WOOD Radio Highlights: Aeros OT goal |
Official Game Report |