Thunder Come From Behind to Defeat Idaho Steelheads 3-2
BOISE, ID – The Wichita Thunder rallied from a two-goal deficit to defeat the Idaho Steelheads 3-2 on Wednesday night at Idaho Central Arena. The victory snapped a three-game winless streak for Wichita.
First Period Sees Steelheads Strike
Mitch Wahl opened the scoring for Idaho at 15:26 of the first period. Jeff Baum’s pass found Wahl, who one-timed a shot past Wichita goaltender Matt Davis.
Steelheads Extend Lead in Second
Early in the second period, Nick Portz increased Idaho’s lead to 2-0. Francesco Arcuri fired a shot from the line, and Portz redirected it past Davis for his eighth goal of the season.
Thunder Mount Comeback in Third
Wichita began its comeback midway through the game. Kirby Proctor scored at 16:14 of the second period, intercepting a clearing attempt and firing a shot past Ben Kraws. Just 44 seconds into the third period, Jay Dickman tied the game with his 14th goal of the season, completing an odd-man rush with Michal Stinil.
Nardecchia’s Shorthanded Goal Proves Decisive
With Idaho on the power play, Nick Nardecchia scored a shorthanded goal at 14:20 of the third period. Davis fired the puck down the ice to Nardecchia, who broke away and scored his fourth goal of the season.
Controversial Goal Review
Idaho appeared to tie the game shortly after Nardecchia’s goal, but the goal was overturned after a review. Charlie Dodero’s shot was tipped in by Robbie Holmes, but officials determined that Holmes used his hand to direct the puck to Kaleb Pearson.
Thunder Hold On for Victory
Wichita successfully killed off a late two-man advantage and held on for the 3-2 victory, despite Idaho pulling their goalie in the final minutes.
Key Performances
Matt Davis made 30 saves in the win for Wichita. Jay Dickman and Kirby Proctor each scored, while Nick Nardecchia recorded his first professional game-winning and shorthanded goal.
Upcoming Game
The Thunder will continue their series against the Idaho Steelheads on Saturday night at 8:10 p.m. CST.
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