Fairbanks- The Janesville Jets spoiled the Fairbanks Ice Dogs’ home opener, netting two goals in a decisive third period to nab a 4-2 at the Big Dipper Ice Arena Friday night. The Ice Dogs have now out shot their opponent in back to back games, only to come up short on the score board. The home team fired 29 shots, to the visitors’ 19 in the game.
Following a high pace, but scoreless first period, the Jets got on the board with goals from Justin Engelkes and Jack Vincent that were separated by 34 seconds early in the second period. With just under 9 minutes to play in the frame, a John Stampohar shot from the point lit the lamp to cut the Jets lead in half.
Parker Brown scored his team leading third goal, a short handed tally on the rush at 19:55 of the second period, to tie the game at two. Jonathan Sorenson assisted both Ice Dog goals. The reigning Midwest Division star of the week leads the team with five assists on the season.
With the score tied at two, midway through the third period, a pile up in front of the Jets’ net left starting goaltender Garrett Nieto on the ice writhing in pain. He lay for several minutes while being attended to by medical staff, and would eventually be assisted off the ice to a warm ovation from the 2,242 fans in attendence.
Cole Brady was outstanding in relief, turning away each of the seven Ice Dog shots he faced.
The Ice Dogs (2-6-0-1) remain in the back of the Midwest Division pack, with five points on the season. Division leading Kenai River, blanked the Chippewa Steel 4-0 Friday, and have 10 points on the season. Janesville is two back with 10.
The Ice Dogs will look for a split against the Jets Saturday night at the Big Dipper. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with game time set for 7:30.
