Steelheads Sink 'Blades 5-1

Recap written by Robert Molnar 

BOISE, ID –Gemel Smith scored the game-winning goal while also adding two assists as the Idaho Steelheads (7-11-4-0, 18 pts) defeated the Florida Everblades (15-8-0-0, 30 pts) by a score of 5-1 at CenturyLink Arena Friday night.

The Steelheads would strike first in the game, courtesy of an excellent shot from Corbin Baldwin at the 18:04 mark of the first period. Spotting an open Baldwin at the Left wing circle, Emil Molin sent the puck cross ice where a quick wrist shot from Baldwin managed to send the puck under the shoulder of Everblades’ goaltender Daniel Altshuller.

A hit on Everblades’ defenseman Matt Stanisz by Rob Linsmayer at the end of the first period would see the Everblades open the second period on a five-minute power play. However, at the 1:48 mark of the period, a tremendous solo effort from Gemel Smith would result in a shorthanded goal for the Steelheads. Lowering his shoulder, Smith powered past the Everblades’ defensemen before firing a shot that managed to beat Daniel Altshuller.

With the ‘Blades unable to convert on the power play, Idaho would continue to gain momentum. Two quick penalties to the Everblades’ would see the Steelheads go on an extended 5-on-3 power play. Following a 13–minute delay for the glass behind the Everblades’ net being replaced, Idaho would go on the attack.

The Steelheads would add to their lead seconds after the game’s resumption, scoring on the power play at 9:59 of the second period. Circling around the net, Jefferson Dahl emerged at the left side of the crease before throwing a puck on goal. Taking a bounce off Corey Syrvet’s skate, the puck managed to evade an outstretched Daniel Altshuller for the goal.

Following the goal, the Everblades would begin to increase their attacking pressure. This offensive effort would pay off as the ‘Blades managed to score their first goal of the night 13:22 into the middle frame. A Matt Willows shot was directed behind the Steelheads’ goal. Picking up the puck, Gabriel Desjardins would wraparound to the left wing side and slide the puck into the open net.

However, this rally would be short-lived. Just over two-minutes after the Desjardins goal at the 15:54 mark the Steelheads would score, this time on a 4-on-4 opportunity. Getting the puck off the faceoff, Andre Bouvet-Morrissette wristed a simple shot that found its way into the back of the net. This goal signaled the end of Daniel Altshuller’s night as the Everblades goaltender would quickly be pulled in favor of Anthony Peters.

The Everblades rough night continued into the third period with Idaho adding to its lead at the 4:03 mark. Emil Molin picked up the puck along the boards and move towards the net. Deking to the backhand, Molin lifted the puck top shelf past Anthony Peters for the goal.

Maxime Legace gets the win for the Steelheads, stopping of 20 of the 21 shots he faced. Daniel Altshuller takes the loss after allowing four goals on 20 shots. Anthony Peters was solid in relief for the Everblades, stopping seven of the eight shots he faced.

The Florida Everblades conclude their six game road trip tomorrow night when they take on the Idaho Steelheads at CenturyLink Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 9:10 p.m. Eastern time. Saturday’s game will be broadcast on the Internet only. Fans may listen online on their computers or laptops by CLICKING HEREAway Game Watch Parties 

Fans are welcome to watch all away games at New York Pizza & Pasta in North Naples, located at 11140 Tamiami Trail. North Naples, and at Cantina 109 located at Gulf Coast Town Center in Fort Myers.

Upcoming Home Games

Wednesday, December 9  vs. Reading Royals, 7:30 p.m. – $2 drafts, $2 wines, $2 hot dogs all night long! Wednesday is also College Night!  College students receive a $5 game ticket with free parking when they present their college ID at Germain Arena.

Friday, December 11 vs. Reading Royals, 7:30 p.m. – Kids eat free in Breakaway Sports Pub with purchase on an adult entree!

Saturday, December 12 vs. Reading Royals, 7:00 p.m. The Annual IBERIABANK Teddy Bear Toss Game! Don't miss the biggest game of the year!  Bring a new teddy bear or stuffed animal to the game. When the Everblades score their first goal, you can throw the teddy bears onto the ice to celebrate! We will round up all of the teddy bears and stuffed animals  and distribute them to local children's charities for the holidays.   Beginning at 5:00 p.m. we will have the tailgate party featuring live music along with bounce houses and face painting for the kids!

Ticket Information

Game Tickets: Everblades tickets may be purchased at the Florida Community Bank Box Office located at Germain Arena, or at any Ticketmaster outlet, or online atwww.ticketmaster.com

Discounted Group Tickets: Bring your group of 10 or more to a game at a discounted price, and also receive an Everblades souvenir! Group tickets are available for all home games. For more information on group tickets, call 239-948-7825.

Full and Partial Season Ticket Packages: We off full and partial season ticket plans that will save your money and fit your budget and schedule. For more information, call 239-948-7825, or stop by the team's main office located at Germain Arena from Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Fans may also stop by our sales tables located in the concourse at Everblades games.

The Everblades are the proud ECHL affiliateof the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes###