Keystone Minor Quarterfinal Recap: Iron Knights Survive Three-Game Test Against Baymen

The Rink Rat Iron Knights advanced in dramatic fashion on Saturday, winning a hard-fought best-of-three Keystone Division Minor quarterfinal series over the Chesapeake Baymen, two games to one.

After splitting the opening two contests, the Iron Knights responded under pressure in the decisive third game to close out the series and earn a semifinal matchup against the top-seeded Steel City Shockwave.

🟦 Game 1: Iron Knights Strike First

(Game Sheet: Pqzzne)

The series opened with the Iron Knights setting the tone offensively, using pace and puck movement to jump out to an early advantage. Chesapeake showed resilience, but Rink Rat controlled long stretches of play, generating sustained pressure in the offensive zone and capitalizing on breakdowns.

Game 1 showcased the Iron Knights at their best—assertive, confident, and opportunistic—giving them the early series lead and forcing Chesapeake into a must-respond situation.

🟩 Game 2: Baymen Push Back

(Game Sheet: aSjcpW)

To their credit, the Baymen responded with urgency in Game 2.

Chesapeake tightened defensively, limited odd-man rushes, and played with noticeably higher physical intensity. Their improved structure frustrated the Iron Knights, and timely finishing allowed the Baymen to even the series and force a deciding third game.

The victory marked one of Chesapeake’s strongest performances of the season and proved they were not going to bow out quietly.

🟥 Game 3: Iron Knights Finish the Job

(Game Sheet: WLxbja)

With the series on the line, the Iron Knights delivered their most composed performance of the day.

Rink Rat focused on defensive responsibility, smart puck management, and winning battles along the boards. They capitalized on key moments, regained control of the tempo, and prevented Chesapeake from building sustained offensive pressure.

As the game wore on, the Iron Knights’ experience showed. They closed out the contest with discipline and composure, sealing the series and moving on to the semifinals.

🔁 Series Takeaways

• Resilience: The Iron Knights responded well after a Game 2 setback, showing maturity in a win-or-go-home situation.

• Baymen Growth: Chesapeake’s Game 2 victory highlighted their progress and competitiveness despite a challenging regular season.

• Playoff Mentality: Each game required adjustments, with momentum swinging sharply across the three-game set.

The series ultimately came down to execution in key moments—and Rink Rat delivered when it mattered most.

🔜 What’s Next

With the quarterfinal win, the Rink Rat Iron Knights advance to face the #1 seed Steel City Shockwave in the Keystone Division Semifinals.

📍 Location: Marple Sports Arena
🗓 Date: Saturday, February 21

The Iron Knights will enter the semifinals battle-tested after a demanding opening round, while Steel City awaits as the division’s top challenge.