Game Summary - January 18, 2025 - NW Express 1 - WI Rapids Riverkings 4

Northwest Express Game Recap
Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings 4, Northwest Express 1
Saturday, January 18, 2025 – Spooner Civic Center

The Northwest Express fell short against the Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings in a hard-fought matchup at the Spooner Civic Center on Saturday night. Despite a strong start by the Express, the Riverkings surged in the second period to claim a decisive 4-1 victory. Here’s how the game unfolded:

1st Period:The Express struck first with a goal from Berge, his 10th of the season, assisted by Corcoran and Lundbohm at 7:09. However, the Riverkings quickly responded with Beauchamp’s eighth goal of the season, assisted by Ilyin and Atkins at 10:51, tying the game at 1-1. The period ended with a physical edge as Johnson from the Express was penalized for hitting from behind at 19:37.

Score after 1st Period: 1-1

2nd Period:The Riverkings took control in the second frame, starting with Tutich’s 12th goal of the season, assisted by Denti and Sweitzer at 4:17. McNeish extended the lead to 3-1 at 8:32 with a goal assisted by Locker and Cooper. Tutich struck again on the power play at 16:46, assisted by Sweitzer and Ahlstrand, bringing the score to 4-1.

The period was marred by penalties, including roughing penalties to Nelson (Riverkings) and Berge (Express), the latter receiving a game misconduct. Winkler of the Express was also penalized with a major for contact to the head and a game misconduct at 16:34, putting the Express further on their heels.

Score after 2nd Period: 4-1 Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings

3rd Period:The final period saw no scoring as both teams tightened defensively. The Riverkings maintained their lead, with Podgurny turning away all nine Express shots in the period. Freshwater stood tall in goal for the Express, stopping 11 shots in the third period and 36 of 40 overall.
The period’s lone penalty was assessed to Garcia (Riverkings) for tripping at 19:27.

Final Score: 4-1 Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings

Game Statistics:

• Shots on Goal:
  Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings: 13-16-11–40
  Northwest Express: 11-3-9—23
• Power Play Opportunities:
  Riverkings: 1/4
  Express: 0/1
• Goaltending:
  Riverkings: Podgurny (6-3-0-0) – 23 shots, 22 saves
  Express: Freshwater (16-5-2-0) – 40 shots, 36 saves
• Attendance: 450
• Officials: Referee: Tim Bowman. Linesmen: Todd Goetze, Kevin Burns.

Takeaways:The Express showed promise early but struggled to maintain momentum in the face of the Riverkings’ offensive and physical pressure. With strong goaltending from Freshwater and flashes of offensive potential, the Express will look to bounce back in their next matchup. Improved discipline and sustained offensive pressure will be key moving forward.
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Stay tuned for updates on the Express’ upcoming games and continued coverage of the season!