CHIPPEWA FALLS, WI-The Chippewa Steel took on the Fairbanks Ice Dogs Friday night at Chippewa Area Ice Arena. This was the fourth and final meeting between these two teams in the regular season in which Chippewa has won two of the three games. Forward Killian Kiecker-Olson returned to the ice for the Steel after overcoming injury. Making his home debut for the Steel is Kylar Fenton, a defenseman acquired from the Maine Nordiques.
A scoreless period left both teams looking to get things going in the second period. Goalie Trent Burnham kept the Ice Dogs’ power play in check after two short-handed frames for the Steel.
It was the Ice Dogs starting out hot in the second period scoring the first goal of the game. Killian Kiecker-Olson was able to start his comeback by scoring his 12thgoal of the season, assisted by Jacob Dirks and Ryan Kerchoff. The even play didn’t last long however before Fairbanks was able to tally a late goal to end the second period.
The Steel would not be discouraged heading into the third period. It was Jacob Dirks with the hot hand making things happen for the Steel. Dirks found the back of the net on an unassisted goal, his fifth goal in seven games.
Tied at two goals apiece after three periods the game was sent into overtime. Though both teams saw good possessions, a scoreless overtime series led to the Steel’s first shootout of the season. In the end it was Fairbanks coming out on top in the shootout and taking the skate-off win with a final score of 3-2.
The Steel travel to Janesville to face the Jets tomorrow night to finish up their weekend. The Steel will return to Chippewa next Friday to play the Jets for a second time in the week. Friday night’s promotion is Superhero Night and a jersey auction presented by Marshfield Clinic Health System. For tickets call 715-861-2131 or visit chippewasteelhockey.com
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The Chippewa Steel are members of the NAHL which is the oldest and largest junior hockey league of its kind in the United States and one of only two USA Hockey-certified leagues that operate under the non pay-to-play model. The NAHL is also one of the best at advancing players to NCAA and professional hockey. Notable Alumni of the NAHL include Ryan Suter (MIN), Patrick Kane (CHI) and Phil Kessel (ARI) All league games are viewable via HockeyTV. For more information, visit chippewasteelhockey.com.