Northwest Express Falls to Riverkings in Hard-Fought Battle in Game 1/Round 2

Northwest Express Falls to Riverkings in Hard-Fought Battle
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, WI – The Northwest Express came up short on Friday night, falling 5-2 to the Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings at the South Wood County Recreation Center. Despite a strong effort, a four-goal third period by the Riverkings proved to be the difference in the matchup.

​Period 1:
The opening period saw the Express struggle to find offensive momentum, while the Riverkings took advantage of a late power play to strike first. Denti netted the game's opening goal at 19:22, assisted by Bryceland and Cooper. The Express also battled penalty trouble, taking three infractions in the first frame.

Period 2:
In the second period, the Express responded with a power-play goal of their own. Browning capitalized at 12:35, with Wolf and Alexander providing the assists. The Express' special teams played a key role in keeping the game tight, successfully killing off a Riverkings power play while converting on one of their own. The game remained deadlocked at 1-1 heading into the final period.

Period 3:
The third period saw a flurry of goals, starting with the Riverkings reclaiming the lead early. Diamond put Wisconsin Rapids ahead at 2:24, assisted by Ilyin and McNeish. The Express fought back and evened the score once again when Alexander found the back of the net at 8:38 on the power play, with Burch and Browning assisting.
However, the Riverkings responded just 43 seconds later, as Denti struck again to put the home team back in front. Wisconsin Rapids extended their lead at 12:39 when Sweitzer scored, assisted by Tutich and Denti. The Riverkings sealed the victory with an empty-net goal from McNeish at 18:28, assisted by Bryceland and Whitehead.

Goaltender Freshwater stood tall for the Express, turning aside 30 of 35 shots, while Hite made 24 saves on 26 shots for the Riverkings.
The Express finished the night 2-for-5 on the power play, while the Riverkings converted on one of their four opportunities.

The game was played in front of a lively crowd of 656 fans.

FINAL SCORE: Northwest Express 2, Wisconsin Rapids Riverkings 5
Shots on Goal: Express 26, Riverkings 35
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The Express will look to bounce back in their next matchup as they continue their playoff push.