The opening period at WesBanco Arena featured a tight, physical start as both teams looked to gain early momentum in a key North Division matchup. Wheeling carried much of the early pressure, generating several quality chances and forcing Adirondack’s defense to collapse around its net.

The Nailers broke through and capitalized on offensive-zone time to take a 1–0 lead. Wheeling continued to push the pace after the goal, controlling stretches of possession. Adirondack settled in during the latter half of the period, creating a few opportunities and testing the Wheeling’s Taylor Gauthier, but the Nailers’ defensive structure held firm to preserve the lead heading into the first intermission.

First Period Score:

Wheeling — 1- Max Graham for his tenth of the season assisted by Brent Johnson and Matthew Quercia
Adirondack — 0

Second Period:

Wheeling certainly took the upper hand in the middle frame, while not outshooting the Thunder, but taking chances on the opportunities created. At 1:36 of the second, Tommy Budnick shot one in on Tyler Brennan and was assisted by Raivis Ansons and Max Graham. This was Budnick’s third on the season. Budnick recently came back to play after being out on injury. At 14:18 of the period, recent AHL contract acquired Ryan McAllister sniped one past Brennan to make the score 3-0. He was assisted by defenseman Tristan Thompson.

Second Period Score:

Wheeling- 3- Tommy Budnick and Ryan McAllister
Adirondack- Zero

Third Period:

There wasn’t much action during the final period until the very end with Raivis Ansons scoring his first goal of the season on the Adirondack empty net. He was assisted by Tanner Andrew.

Taylor Gauthier has broken two records within two weeks. Breaking the all time winning goaltending record and tying the shutout record in Wheeling. Gauthier’s athleticism and calm mannerism in net is what makes him a good net minder.

-Samantha Wismer/Olde City Sports Network

-Photo Credit: Wheeling Nailers

Wheeling vs Adirondack: Part Uno

Flyers Force Shootout Win!