All five of Rapid City’s goals against the Utah goaltender were remarkably similar: redirections from the net to the front on centering passes from the outside.
Klotz sets the tone, directs Darian Pilon‘s sailed through the five holes for his first goal since December 15, 2021. Quinn Olson was added later in the first period and the Rush defeated Utah 16-5.
Rapid City’s special teams struck three times in the second period. Brett Davis buried two power play goals and Connor Joyce grabbed a short goal. The Rush led 5-2 after the second while nearly doubling the Grizzlies in shots.
The Rush were determined to get Davis his hat trick. Utah cleared the net with two minutes left. Davis stayed out the entire time, took several face-offs and finally blasted home a long shot for his third of the game.
Davis earned his second career hat trick and first at home. Manitoba, Oakbank’s third-year pro, also accomplished the feat in Idaho in November 2024.
Not to forget, Rico Di Matteo was solid throughout the match, making 32 saves on 35 shots en route to his first professional victory. DiMatteo allowed just one even-strength goal. The rookie from Brasher Falls, NY had his parents in the building to celebrate.
This was a game to get rid of the Schneid for the Rush in many ways. They defeated an opponent for the first time since December 31st and grabbed 40 admissions for the first time in January. Rapid City defeated Utah 46-35.
Rapid City is snapping a five-game losing streak and heading out on the right note. The Rush are in Allen next weekend for the first part of the two-week “Stock Show Road Trip.”
Next game: Friday, January 30 in Allen. 6:10 PM MST puck drop from Credit Union of Texas Event Center.
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