Werek's Two Goals Lifts Everblades Over Idaho

BOISE, ID – Ethan Werek scored twice while defending ECHL Goaltender of the Month Daniel Altshuller stopped 32 shots as the Florida Everblades (15-7-0-0, 30 pts) defeated the Idaho Steelheads (6-11-4-0, 16 pts) by a score of 4-1 at CenturyLink Arena Wednesday night.

The Everblades quickly took the lead in the game, striking first at the 3:39 mark of the opening period. Receiving the puck at the left wing circle, Matt Willows would take advantage of the traffic surrounding Steelheads goaltender Philippe Desrosiers. Firing a wrist-shot, Willows shot found the back of the net for his eighth goal of the season.

Exchanging chances for the rest of the first period and opening part of the second period, both the Steelheads and the Everblades found themselves with quality goal scoring chances. However, at the 9:41 mark of the second period, it would again be the Everblades who would take advantage of their opportunity to extend their lead.

Setting up shop in the attacking zone, Matt Willows found Mark Nemec alone at the blue-line. Moving forward, Nemec fired a shot on goal where the puck would deflect off the stick of Ethan Werek and past the Steelheads’ goaltender for the goal.

Down 2-0, the Steelheads finally caught a break courtesy of a shorthanded tally by Zack Kamrass at the 12:32 mark of the middle frame. Breaking into the Everblades’ zone 2-on-1, an initial shot by Brandon Magee was saved by Daniel Altshuller only to have the rebound fall right to the stick of Kamrass who quickly shot the puck behind an outstretched Altshuller for the goal.

However, momentum would begin to swing back into the Everblades’ favor. Receiving the puck from Mark Nemec, Ethan Werek streaked into the attacking zone. Making a quick move towards the left wing circle, Werek would use the open shooting lane to snipe a shot top shelf past Desrosiers for his second goal of the night.

Entering the third period up 3-1, the Everblades continued to play their game. A solid defensive effort by the ‘Blades would deny the Steelheads of any quality scoring opportunities. With the Steelheads unable to challenge Daniel Altshuller, Idaho pulled the goaltender to allow for the extra attacker. The move would not prove to be a successful one as Maxime St. Cyr buried the empty net goal with just under two-minutes remaining in the game to seal the Everblades 4-1 victory.

Daniel Altshuller gets the win and continues his tremendous season in goal for the Everblades, stopping 32 of 33 shots. Philippe Desrosiers takes the loss for the Steelheads, allowing three goals on 33 shots.

The Florida Everblades continue their west coast road trip Friday night when they will once again take on the Idaho Steelheads at CenturyLink Arena. Puck drop is scheduled for 9:10 p.m. Eastern time. Fans can catch the game broadcast on 770 AM or online by CLICKING HERE Away 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 at www.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###