The Evansville Thunderbolts came up short in their bid for a weekend sweep, falling 4-2 to the Quad City Storm in the finale of their three-game series on Saturday night at Ford Center. Despite outshooting the Storm in the final period and generating quality chances, the Thunderbolts were unable to secure the victory.
Game Recap
Quad City struck first after a scoreless opening period, with Lukas Lacny scoring on the power play at 2:41 of the second to give the Storm a 1-0 lead. Evansville responded quickly, as Derek Contessa found the back of the net at 4:14, assisted by Vili Vesalainen and Jordan Simoneau.
The Storm reclaimed the lead at 16:59 when Severi Savijoki scored shorthanded, but the Thunderbolts tied the game in dramatic fashion just before the second intermission. Brendan Harrogate finished a net-front passing play from Vesalainen and Grayson Valente with three seconds left in the period, making it 2-2 heading into the third.
In the final period, Tommy Tsicos broke the deadlock at 12:43, banking a shot through Ty Taylor off a deflection in front. Despite several dangerous chances for Evansville, including a shot that rang off the post, the Storm held firm. Quad City sealed the win with an empty-net goal from Aaron Ryback in the final minute, completing the 4-2 victory.
Key Performances
Contessa and Harrogate each scored for the Thunderbolts, while Vesalainen contributed two assists. Ty Taylor made 24 saves on 27 shots in goal for Evansville. Despite the loss, the Thunderbolts’ aggressive offensive effort in the third period, which included several high-quality scoring opportunities, highlighted their resilience.
What’s Next
The Thunderbolts return to action on Tuesday, December 31, hosting the Huntsville Havoc at Ford Center. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. CT. Evansville will aim to end 2024 on a high note and gain momentum heading into the new year. Fans can follow the team’s updates and broadcasts on their official social media channels.
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