Blades back on track 4-2
After back-to-back shootout losses at home, the Florida Everblades got back to their winning ways Friday night by defeating the Tulsa Oilers 4-2 at Germain Arena.
For the first time in a week, the Everblades got out to the fast start they are used to, taking a two-goal lead in the first period.
Defenseman Cameron Burt drew first blood for the Blades, scoring 12 minutes into the game tipping in Mitch Wahl’s stray shot. Three minutes later, Chris Kushneriuk scored his fourth goal in two games, putting the Blades in firm control.
Tulsa got on the scoreboard in the final minutes of the period, beating Florida netminder Andy Isles (18 saves).
Florida’s defense locked down the Oilers in the second period, allowing no quality scoring chances. The defensive effort generated scoring chances, which local product Bobby Preece capitalized on, scoring his first goal in the ECHL, and the lone goal of the period to put the Blades up 3-1 going into the final period.
After killing off a two-man power play by Tulsa in the opening minutes of the final period, Adam Brace scored on the power play to put the Blades up 4-1 with less than seven minutes to go.
Though out of reach, Tulsa scored its second goal after winning the ensuing faceoff. Florida’s defense held firm, securing the Blades’ 25th win of the season.
“It was really a good team effort,” said Blades coach Greg Poss. “We just came out and played really well defensively. I think we only gave up six shots in the first period, and we cut their scoring chances in half over (Wednesday night).”
The Everblades (25-5-0-3) stay home for one more match Saturday night against division rival Gwinnett.