Perth Thunder has defeated the New Zealand Ice Blacks 7-2 in game two of their three game tri-series at the ‘Thunder Dome’ Perth Ice Arena.
Chasing a series victory, Thunder was able to take the lead early when #16 Jonathon Bremner scored in the seventh minute, assisted by #9 Dave Ruck.
Thunder were able to create several opportunities throughout the first period, which allowed #9 Dave Ruck to put up his second point of the night, an unassisted goal from the slot.
The Ice Blacks played a much more physical game of hockey in game two than they did in game one on Saturday night. They were very aggressive on their fore-check keeping the Thunder in their own zone, but it was not enough to hold Perth Thunder down throughout the game.
Charlie Smart, younger brother of Michael Smart, was unstoppable in the first 20 minute period and his shutout period gave Thunder a 2-0 lead into the first break.
Thunder continued their run through the second, but gave up a power play goal to the Ice Blacks after #9 Dave Ruck was sent to the penalty box for a roughing call.
The Ice Blacks then backed up their first goal with another by #24 Andrew Cox, Perth Thunder’s regular alternate Captain. This put the Thunder at a 4-2 lead heading into the third period.
Smart continued to come up big through the third period, with some monumental saves, constantly denying the Ice Blacks access to the back of the net.
Thunder put up three more goals in the final period to win the game 7-2.
Perth Thunder forward #9 Dave Ruck was awarded Thunder’s Man of the Match for game two, putting up two points.
“The Ice Blacks definitely played a more physical game tonight, they seemed a little faster and were a bit more physical today. You have to be happy, my line was a little unlucky last game and just kept working hard and made the breaks tonight” Ruck said.
“The rookies have been playing great and the whole feel around the team is just really good.”
Melbourne Mustangs star import, Pat O’Kane, was just outstanding for Thunder in games one and two and we thank the Melbourne Mustangs and Pat himself for their assistance and efforts as Pat heads back to Melbourne now and will not be playing game three.
Catch your Thunder boys in action this Tuesday night 7 April against the Ice Blacks for one final time … puck drops at 6.30pm before the official AIHL season kicks off later this month.
Tickets for Tuesday nights game are available online here now! …
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