Goaltending the difference in Rochester’s 1-1 tie with Plymouth
By DAVID BOIKE
CORRESPONDENT
CHELSEA — Outstanding goal tending by both Rochester United’s Ian Mercer and Plymouth’s Mike Justus forced a 1-1 overtime tie yesterday at the Chelsea Showcase.
Mercer was the busier of the two net minders with 42 saves, including two critical stops in the third period, one on a deflection at the 12-minute mark, and another a minute later on a break-in by Plymouth’s Nick Schultz.
Justus responded with 29 saves with none more stellar than on a breakaway by Michael Potoniec at the 15-minute mark in the third period. Potoniec, one of the top goal scorers for Rochester United this season came in all alone on Justus, who held his ground and turned aside the threat to keep the score at 1-1.
Adam Boike scored the lone goal for Rochester United at 2:49 in the first period by slamming a rebound into the open corner of the net. Eric Lonczynski, who made the initial shot, was credited with the assist on the play.
Rochester United’s lead lasted for all of about 20 seconds when on the power play, Plymouth’s Nick Schultz rammed a nifty one timer past Mercer on a pass from Cody Staub.
The Wildcats outshot Rochester, 43-30.
“I thought our team came out flat in the first period,” remarked Rochester Coach Dave Underdale. “I thought we were lacking energy as we were unable to sustain pressure. We came into the game with a four-game win streak so I am glad to get out of this game with a tie against a quality opponent like Plymouth.”
Rochester United moves on to the OAA play-off next Friday against Lake Orion at 6:15pm at the Onyx.
“It is important that we practice well this week in preparation for the tournament,” summarized Underdale.
Category: Prep Wraps, Rochester, Rochester Adams
