Vikman leads Tahoe to series win over Maine

Key Takeaways:

• Historic Performance by Goalie Jesper Vikman
• Tahoe Knight Monsters Defeat Maine 5-2
• Team’s Resilience After Previous Loss
• Contributions from Key Players Enhance Win
• Momentum Builds Ahead of Rapid City Series

Vikman’s Historic Night Leads Tahoe to Victory

In a remarkable display of skill and versatility, goalie Jesper Vikman made 28 of 30 saves and scored a goal as the Tahoe Knight Monsters defeated Maine 5-2 in the decisive game of their series. Vikman’s goal marked the first time a goalie has scored in the Knight Monsters’ franchise history.

“That was the first one I’ve seen in a long time that just went off the goalie,” said Knight Monsters head coach Alex Loh. “Fortunate for us, it was cool to be a part of, and I’m sure it was fun for Jesper.”

Early Dominance Sets the Tone

Tahoe wasted no time breaking their scoring drought from the previous game. Just minutes into the first period, Adam Robbins opened the scoring with a one-time rocket, assisted by Patrick Newell who maneuvered past defenders to set up the chance.

“Guys were a little frustrated after last night’s game… good job by those guys to execute,” Loh commented. “That let us breathe a little bit and realize that we haven’t forgotten to score goals.”

Vikman was impenetrable in the first period, stopping all 10 shots and helping Tahoe take the lead into the second period for the first time in the series.

Maine’s Response and Tahoe’s Resurgence

Midway through the second period, Maine capitalized on a power play as Carter Johnston’s close-quarters backhand found its way under Vikman’s pad, leveling the score. Tahoe quickly regained the lead when Jake McGrew finished a perfectly executed 2-on-1 play, marking his 10th goal of the season.

Sealing the Victory

Entering the third period with a 2-1 lead, Tahoe intensified both offensively and defensively. Nate Kallen extended the lead to 3-1 with a stunning wrist shot six minutes in. Logan Nelson added another goal six minutes later, courtesy of a precise pass from Artur Cholach.

Maine’s Nick Jermain narrowed the gap to 4-2 with four minutes remaining. However, Vikman capped off his stellar night by scoring a goal, as a save ricocheted off his pads and traveled the length of the ice into Maine’s empty net.

Building Momentum for the Season

The victory not only secured the series but also marked Tahoe’s 20th win of the season. Reflecting on the road trip, Coach Loh remarked, “We wanted to make sure we finished off the right way and took four points out of six, which is always the bare minimum we are looking for after every weekend. All in all, a solid road trip.”

Looking ahead, the Knight Monsters will travel to Rapid City for a three-game series against the Rush. Game one is scheduled for Friday at 6:05 p.m., where they aim to continue their winning momentum.