Backup goaltender Mike Gabel put forth one of the finest performances of his seven-year professional career to anchor a strong defensive effort as the Rochester Rattlers knocked the Chesapeake Bayhawks from the unbeaten ranks with a 12-8 victory in front of 7,853 fans on Saturday night at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.
Gabel, a backup appearing in just his fourth game for Rochester, recorded 27 saves to diffuse a Chesapeake offense that scored 23 goals against Ohio last Saturday night. The Bayhawks unleashed 54 shots, but 21 were not on goal while many others were right at Gabel, who was named the Bud Light Player of the Game. “I thought the goalie beat us. He was outstanding. He was the best player on the field tonight and was definitely the difference,” Chesapeake head coach Dave Cottle said.
Adam Rand dominated the face-offs for Chesapeake (2-1), winning 16 of 20. However, the offense wasn’t able to take advantage of that possession advantage and was held eight goals below its season average.
Midfielder Steven Brooks scored two goals, one of which was a 2-pointer, to lead Chesapeake. Rand and attackman Ben Rubeor both contributed a goal and an assist for the Bayhawks, who hurt themselves by committing a considerable number of turnovers.
No comments have been posted yet, be the first!
Post a comment by filling out the form below.