Game Recap
Senior captain Geoff Fortman found the back of the net in overtime, propelling the Griffs to a 2-1 victory over the University of Alaska, Friday evening from Fairbanks, Alaska.
The goal, scored at 3:20 in the overtime period, was assisted by freshman Casey Jerry and sophomore Cameron Heath and was Fortman’s first of the season.
The Griffs struggled in the first period of action, recording only one shot, to Alaska’s 14, but killed off two Alaska power plays to keep the game 0-0 at the end of one.
Alaska would get on the board first, at 10:59 in the second, with freshman Tristan Thompson scoring his first career goal on the power play.
The Griffs would respond early in the third, tying the game at one on a goal from sophomore Dylan McLaughlin, before netting the winner in the overtime period.
Canisius senior goaltender Charles Williams allowed one goal, on 27 saves, making 14 in the second period alone.
Assistant Coach Scott Moser’s Postgame Comments
“It was great to get our first win of the year. I’m really happy for Geoff Fortman getting the overtime winner, for our captain to play that big of a role. Charles Williams played well for us tonight and it was nice to see him get his first win at Canisius.
Overall, we started off the game slow and they outshot us pretty well. Even though we didn’t score, the five-minute power play in the second gave us confidence having the puck on our stick. From there, our effort increased, and that led to us getting more chances as the game went on.”
Game Notes
• The Griffs were outshot in the contest 28-22, but won the faceoff battle 34-24.
• Freshman Matt Hoover led all Griffs with four shots.
• Junior Jack Stander was tied for the game high in blocks, with Fortman, recording two apiece.
• The Griffs are now 2-0-0 against Alaska all-time.
• The Griffs were called for four penalties, lasting eight minutes, while Alaska committed four penalties, that spanned 19 minutes.
Up Next
The Griffs will play their second game of the Brice Alaska Goal Rush tomorrow evening at 8:07 p.m. ET against Alaska Anchorage.
