Feb. 18, 2005
vs. Grand Rapids Griffins
at the Van Andel Arena
The Admirals faced a few unknowns in this first game after the All Star break. Long time Griffins coach Danton Cole was axed a week ago and former Admirals and Predators defenseman Mark Eaton signed with Grand Rapids the day the official announcement about the NHL season being cancelled.
Wyatt Smith's second period power play goal went unanswered until the later stages of the third period. The Griffins tied it up with less than 7 minutes remaining, but Tony Hrkac answered moments later to put Milwaukee back on top. Matt Ellis spoiled the party for the Admirals by tying it up and sending it to overtime.
The teams remained tied after five minutes, bringing out the sudden death shootout to determine a winner. The Admirals haven't fared very well all season at the shootout, with only one successful shot in the four games previously decided this way. Tonight was a step in the right direction, as two Admirals scored (Simon Gamache and Jordin Tootoo), but the Griffins matched those two goals and won in the sixth round on a shot by Jiri Hudler.
Vern Fiddler was scratched from the lineup, as was Jeremy Yablonski (shoulder) and Burke Henry (eye).
POINTSTREAK.COM PRINTABLE GAMESHEET:
Van Andel Arena Fri, Feb 18, 2005 at 7:30 pm