In a hard-fought and physical game between two powerhouse teams, Philadelphia outscored Minnesota, 11-1, in the fourth quarter to turn a nail-biter into a blowout at the Wachovia Center. Offensive contributions were made across the board for the Wings with eight players scoring goals.

“It was a great defensive game, and we had some very good shots,” said Head Coach Dave Huntley. “It was a great team effort against a very strong team.” 

Although Philadelphia started out the game highly aggressive and physical, Minnesota was able to score two goals early on in the game. During the slow first quarter, the Wings were held scoreless, while Minnesota tallied three goals.

Jamie Rooney started the second quarter by scoring a goal at 12:29 for the Wings, which was quickly followed by a goal from Athan Iannucci. The remainder of the half was a back and forth battle with the teams exchanging goals. Minnesota continued to hold their lead at 5-3 going into the second half.

The third quarter proved to be successful for the Wings as they scored three goals to take their first lead of the game. Minnesota quickly answered back with two goals at the end of the quarter to regain the lead at 7-6.

 Philadelphia proved to be a second half team with an onslaught of 11 goals in the fourth quarter. Minnesota’s defense broke down, and the team eventually switched goaltenders early on in the half. Even with the switch in cage, Minnesota was unable to hold off an aggressive Philadelphia offense, led by Iannucci with four goals in the quarter.

Leading the Wings offense was Iannucci with seven points (6G, 1A), Jake Bergey with give points (2G, 3A), Jason Crosbie with six points (1G, 5A), Jamie Rooney (2G, 2A) and Rob Van Beek (3G, 1A) with four points each. Additional offensive contributions were made by Jim Borell (1G, 1A), Pat Heim (1G, 1A) and David Mitchell (1G). Goaltender Rob Blasdell had 32 saves on the night.

Leading Minnesota’s offense was led by Craig Point with four points (3G, 1A), Ryan Ward and Dean Hill both had three point (2G, 1A), Sean Pollack (1G, 1A) and Chad Culp (1G, 1A) and Mike Hominuck with one goal. Goaltender Nick Patterson had 54 saves on the night.

For a box score from tonight’s game logon to www.pointstreak.com