EVANSVILLE, Ind. (WFIE) – Despite losing in a shootout, the Thunderbolts fought back twice in regulation to tie the game and earn a point by forcing overtime Saturday in Knoxville, 4-3 Knoxville on the final score. The Thunderbolts’ next home game is Saturday, December 28 against the Quad City Storm at 7:05 p.m. CT.

Evansville took its first lead of the game at 9:23 of the first period, as Benjamin Lindberg scored on a breakaway by Nolan McElhaney. Knoxville countered to take a 2-1 lead, as Tyler Williams scored at 12:31 and Brayden Stannard scored at 19:31 to give the Ice Bears the lead heading into the first intermission.

In the second period, Logan vande Meerakker tied the game 2-2 with a power play goal from Anthony Hora and Vili Vesalainen at 8:08, before Derek Osik put Knoxville back in front 3-2 with a power play goal at 11:11. .

At 9:36 of the third period, a Hora shot was deflected into the net by Vesalainen to tie the game 3-3, also assisted by Brendan Harrogate.

After overtime, the Ice Bears won in a 6 round shootout, with Evansville’s goals scored by Vande Meerakker and Vesalainen, while the Ice Bears converted on their final three shots.

Vesalainen had a goal and an assist, Vande Meerakker and Lindberg each finished with a goal and Hora had two assists.

In goal, Ty Taylor finished with 24 saves on 27 shots in regulation and overtime. The Thunderbolts and Ice Bears will not meet this regular season.

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