The Springfield Jr. Blues were able to overcome a 2 goal deficit to tie the game, but the Minnesota Wilderness scored seconds before the game could get to overtime to defeat Springfield 3-2 in Cloquet, Minnesota Friday night.
After a scoreless first period, Springfield conceded the first 2 goals of the game and trailed 2-0 midway through the second period. Shortly after Minnesota’s second goal, defenseman Jordan Muzzillo was able to score on a shot from the point to cut Minnesota’s lead in half. The goal was Muzzillo’s 5th on the season and was assisted by Fabio Hollenstein and Nikita Kozyrev.
Early in the third period, Springfield received the equalizer they were looking for. Forward Jeff Skinner stayed hot and jammed a loose puck past the Minnesota net-minder to tie the game 2-2. Skinner’s 4th goal of the season was assisted by Max Brainin.
Unfortunately, Minnesota used some nice passing to score the game winner with 17.9 seconds left to seal a 3-2 victory.
Evan Fear was in goal for Springfield and stopped 37 of 40 Wilderness shots.
Springfield and Minnesota will do battle again at 7:05pm Saturday night as they will be looking for revenge after a heartbreaker Friday night.
