SEWELL, N.J. — The Philadelphia Rebels (7-11-0-3) fell 2-1 in a shootout to the Johnstown Tomahawks (9-7-3-0) Saturday night at Hollydell Ice Arena, splitting the two-game series.
It was a low-scoring affair from the opening puck drop. Goaltenders Ben Varsa and Zack Ferris stood tall, with Varsa making 38 saves and Ferris stopping 27 through regulation and overtime.
Philadelphia’s only goal came early in the second period as Ryan Ickes scored on a rebound off a shot from Alex Lunski, giving the Rebels a 1-0 lead. Johnstown evened the score late in the third period when Kacper Gach tallied his first goal of the season with 4:31 remaining, tying the game 1-1 and forcing overtime.
Neither team could break the tie in overtime, despite several scoring chances and strong offensive pressure. Both teams went 0-for-3 on the power play, and Philadelphia’s penalty kill successfully limited opportunities.
The contest came down to a shootout, where Shane Tronoski scored the game-winning goal for Johnstown. Philadelphia’s final shooter, Jordan Brothers, was stopped by Zack Ferris, sealing the 2-1 victory for the Tomahawks.
Despite the loss, the Rebels have secured points in their last three contests and will look to rebound as they head into their next series, aiming to build momentum at home.
Philadelphia will be back in action next Friday as it hosts the New Jersey Titans. Puck drop is set for 7:30 p.m.