In a tightly contested matchup, the Wolf Pack fell 3–2 in overtime to the Hershey Bears. Both teams exchanged timely goals in a game that swung on momentum shifts, tactical decisions, and a few key individual performances.
First Period
Hartford Opens the Scoring: The period began with Hartford’s captain, Casey Fitzgerald, setting the tone by scoring at 10:39. His goal energized the Wolf Pack and put early pressure on Hershey.
Hershey’s Quick Response: Less than two minutes later, veteran Luke Philp equalized the score at approximately 12:08. His effort highlighted Hershey’s readiness to counter and keep up with Hartford’s early momentum.
Rookie Impact: Hershey further shifted the momentum when rookie defenseman David Gucciardi scored at 17:37—his first professional goal. This gave the Bears a 2–1 advantage by the end of the first period and set the stage for the rest of the game.
Second Period
Defensive Battle: The second period was characterized by a defensive stalemate. Both teams tightened up, focusing on strong zone play and disciplined backchecking, with neither side able to convert on their scoring chances.
Special Teams and Physical Play: Despite opportunities on the power play for both squads, the period ended without any goals. It was a display of physicality and goaltender resilience as Hartford and Hershey battled to maintain their positions for the upcoming period.
Third Period
Hartford’s Late Rally: With tensions high, Hartford mounted a late offensive surge. At 18:34, Dylan Roobroeck scored a critical tying goal, making it 2–2 and setting up a dramatic finish to the game.
Intensity and Key Chances: The final minutes of regulation saw both teams pushing for the game-winning goal. The tight play and risk-taking from Hartford nearly tipped the balance, but defensive lapses ultimately led to extra time.
Overtime
Decisive Finish: In overtime, Hershey clinched the contest as Alex Limoges capitalized on a turnover, netting the game-winning goal just 1:01 into the extra period. This swift and opportunistic strike gave the Bears a 3–2 victory in a closely fought battle.
Player Highlights
Hartford Wolf Pack:
Casey Fitzgerald: Scored the opening goal, breaking a 19-game goal drought.
Dylan Roobroeck: Tied the game late in regulation with a clutch deflection.
Dylan Garand (Goalie): Made 31 saves on 34 shots, keeping Hartford competitive.
Hershey Bears:
Luke Philp: Continued his scoring streak with a goal in the first period.
David Gucciardi: Scored his first professional goal in his debut game.
Alex Limoges: Delivered the overtime winner, his 16th goal of the season.
Garin Bjorklund (Goalie): Stopped 23 of 25 shots, including key saves in the third period.
Game Statistics
Shots on Goal: Hershey 34, Hartford 25
Power Plays: Hershey 0-for-8, Hartford 0-for-5
Penalty Minutes: Hartford 22, Hershey 16
Overtime Shots: Hershey 3, Hartford 0
CLICK IMAGE FOR FULL GALLERY
