The Helena Bighorns\’ offensive push was shut down by the Gillette Wild goalie Sean Kelley, who recorded nine saves in a 2-1 victory.
Gillette was led by Tj Mcminn, who racked up one goal. Mcminn scored 1:15 into the second period to make the score 2-1 Gillette. Brandon Castleberry assisted on the tally.
The Wild excelled on the penalty kill, not giving up a single goal in four chances.
Will Fobair also scored for Gillette. More assists for Gillette came via Michael Burke, who had one.
Helena put up an impenetrable defensive front on the penalty kill, and did not allow Gillette to score on any of its three power plays. The Bighorns forced the Wild goalie Kelley to work between the pipes, taking 31 shots.
Helena was led by Austin Loes, who scored the team\’s only goal. Loes scored 4:38 into the first period to make the score 1-0 Helena. Theo Campe provided the assist.
Gillette ended with 38 minutes in penalty time with four minors and two majors. For the Wild, Moco Willis was ejected from the game. The Bighorns\’ Alek Lazarski stopped 17 shots out of the 19 that he faced. Helena ended with 26 minutes in penalty time with three minors and two majors.