The Galdiators wasted no time in the first period as Nolan Orzeck saw through the traffic in front of Blades goalkeeper Cam Johnson’s crease with a snap shot to claim the early lead. Alex Young and Isak Walther registered assists during the game.
The first period yielded one goal, as the Everblades failed to score on four shots, while Atlanta capitalized on one of seven.
When asked by Hannah Jo Groves what changes we needed to make in the second period, Captain Oliver Chau emphasized the need to “get our O-zone going and get a few shots through” and to execute a “next shift mentality.”
No goals were scored in the second period as the Gladiators recorded 11 shots while Florida posted 12. The Everblades took two minor penalties in the frame, with Sean Allen called for roughing and Kyle Betts for tripping.
Atlanta doubled the lead at 11:31 of the third period with a shorthanded goal by Jack O’Brien, assisted by Mickey Burns. Burns’ shot bounced off Johnson’s pads and set up a one-timer for O’Brien
Near the end of regulation, the Blades outscored the Gladiators 22-20, but couldn’t see past Atlanta goaltender Ethan Haider, who recorded his first shutout of the season.
The two teams will meet again at home on Friday, January 30 for a puck drop at 7:30 PM, followed by another match on Saturday, January 31 at 7:00 PM, where the home team will look to even the series.
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