Panthers Can’t Hold on to Third Period Lead; Lose 3-2
Box Score
Adrian, Mich. – In a rematch of last year's National Championship game, Davenport dropped their first game of the season Thursday night to Adrian College. The Panthers took a 2-1 lead into the third period, but Adrian scored twice in the final ten minutes and walked away with the win.
Davenport came out with a lot of energy to start the game; however, they got into trouble early on. The Panthers picked up a penalty just 48 seconds into the first period. On the ensuing power play the Bulldogs scored their first goal less than three minutes into the game. Four minutes later, Davenport capitalized on a power play of their own as Dugan Kelly put back a rebound off of Cody Mathieu's shot.
With seven minutes left in the 2nd period Davenport took lead courtesy of Bryon Guerin. Guerin received and outlet pass from Jordan Steger, split two defenders, then deked the goalie and lifted a backhand past him.
The Panthers took the 2-1 advantage into the 3rd period but were unable to protect the lead. The Bulldogs pulled even with the Panthers with 8:21 left on Colin Gillead's second goal of the game. Five minutes later Adrian found the back of the net to take a 3-2 lead.
In the final three minutes the Panthers were able to apply some pressure and throw some pucks on net, but were not able to slip one by the Adrian goaltender.
John Cruse recorded 31 saves in net for the Davenport who was outshot 34-27. Cruse now had a 2-1 record on the year.
Post-Game Quotes Head Coach Chris Green
On losing 3rd period lead “We didn't match the level of intensity that Adrian had in the third period…We saw some good things today, but still have a lot of work to do.”
Post-Game Notes
Davenport is 2-5 all-time against Adrian Gold and have lost the last four games in the series…Davenport will be back on the ice on October 6, when the travel to Saginaw Valley State.
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