Spits defeat Steelheads

by Evan Mathias

Despite being outshot 33 to 18, the Windsor Spitfires managed to hold on for a 2-1 win over the Mississauga Steelheads Jan. 17 at the WFCU Centre.

An evenly matched first period saw good scoring opportunities for both teams. Spits forward Sam Studnicka opened the scoring with a quick snap shot from the top of the left circle that beat Steelheads goalie Tyson Teichmann’s glove.

“I’m just trying to produce help the team out and create energy, that’s my role here,” said Studnicka.

The goal seemed to deflate Mississauga for the remainder of the period, which was apparent to Spits defenceman Adam Bateman

“It was nice to get the first one, get the momentum going,” said Bateman. “Mississauga seemed to be a little bit flat after that, then the period ended and they seemed to get their confidence back up and it was a battle.”

Alexander Khokhlachev scored his fourth goal in as many games since returning to the Spits. His goal early in the second period gave the Spits a two goal lead and turned out to be the eventual game winner.

“Great win for the team, as a coach you want to score more goals and not be in as many close games but I’m not going to complain at this point,” said Spits head coach Bob Boughner.

Mid-way through the second period, Spits goalie Jaroslav Pavelka made a huge kick save and while falling back snagged the rebound out of the air before the puck crossed the goal line.

“Pav made the saves he had to make tonight, he’s been one of our best players,” said Boughner.

Steelheads forward Sam Babintsev broke up Pavelka’s shutout late in the third period when his shot trickled past the Spits goaltender.

With the win the Spits gain a big two points in their playoff hunt and are now just four points back of Saginaw for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference.