Shockwave Stun Iron Knights with Incredible Series Comeback

After a humiliating 7-0 loss in Game 1, the Steel City Shockwave mounted an astonishing two-game rally to eliminate the Pottstown Rink Rat Iron Knights in the Keystone Division Minor Semi-Finals. Despite being short-benched throughout the series, the Shockwave showed resilience and determination, capped by a nail-biting 3-2 victory in Game 3.

Game 1: Iron Knights Dominate Early

The series opener was a one-sided affair as Pottstown overwhelmed Steel City in all facets of the game, cruising to a 7-0 victory.

Key Performances:

• David Lundy (Iron Knights): Goal and assist to open the scoring.
• Ty Loftus (Iron Knights): A goal and two assists, leading the defensive effort.
• Dann Steffens (Iron Knights): Perfect night in net, turning away all nine shots he faced for the shutout.

Steel City struggled to generate offense, managing only nine shots on goal, while Pottstown poured on 26.

Final Score: Pottstown 7, Steel City 0

Game 2: Shockwave Strike Back

In Game 2, the Shockwave flipped the script, edging Pottstown 4-3 to even the series. Steel City came out strong with three first-period goals, led by Nathan Planey and Jack Shirley, and held off a late Iron Knights push to force Game 3.

Key Performances:

• Nathan Planey (Shockwave): Two goals, including the game-winner.
• Jack Shirley (Shockwave): Goal and assist, providing critical offensive support.
• Jesse Koewacich (Shockwave): Strong effort in net with 18 saves.

Steel City capitalized on special teams, scoring two power-play goals to stay ahead in a back-and-forth contest.

Final Score: Steel City 4, Pottstown 3

Game 3: A Lucky Bounce Seals the Comeback

Game 3 was as close as playoff hockey gets. With the score tied 2-2 late in the second period, a fortunate bounce off the boards found its way to Nathan Planey, who buried his second game-winner of the series. Steel City’s defense shut the door in the third period, and Koewacich delivered when it mattered most.

Key Performances:

• Nathan Planey (Shockwave): Scored his third goal of the series and provided steady leadership.
• Jack Shirley (Shockwave): Recorded another critical assist to keep Steel City’s offense moving.
• Jesse Koewacich (Shockwave): Played all three games in the series, making 19 saves in Game 3 to clinch the win.

Pottstown fought valiantly, with goals from Devin Whitford and Cody Rotiske, but couldn’t recover from the Shockwave’s late-game heroics.

Final Score: Steel City 3, Pottstown 2

What’s Next?

With the comeback complete, the Steel City Shockwave will face the winner of the Marple SK Labeda Gladiators and Susquehanna Scream series, which is tied 1-1 heading into Game 3. The Shockwave have proven their ability to battle through adversity, but they’ll need every ounce of energy and determination to keep their Cinderella run alive.

An Unforgettable Series

This series was yet another example of the razor-thin margins in the Keystone Minor Division, widely regarded as the league’s most competitive. The Shockwave’s resilience and ability to bounce back will be remembered as one of the most thrilling moments of this playoff season.

Series Result: Steel City wins 2-1