SEWELL, N.J. — The Philadelphia Rebels continued their strong preseason Thursday afternoon, shutting out the Maryland Black Bears, 2-0, at Hollydell Ice Arena.
After two scoreless periods, Philadelphia broke through twice in the third period to earn its second consecutive preseason victory. The Rebels outshot Maryland 38-32 in the win.
Oscar Djurberg found the back of the net for Philadelphia, scoring his second goal of the preseason. Djurberg’s breakaway strike broke the scoreless tie that had lasted for 52 minutes. Justin Vlassis also netted an empty-net goal for the Rebels, helping Philadelphia pull away in the final period. Djurberg was named the game’s first star.
The Rebels controlled much of the shot advantage through the opening 40 minutes. Philadelphia outshot Maryland 13-10 in the first period and 16-9 in the second, taking a 29-19 advantage into the third despite the game remaining scoreless.
Benjamin Varsa and Jeremy Lowe combined for the shutout in net. Varsa stopped all 18 shots he faced in just under 30 minutes of action, while Lowe turned aside all 14 shots sent his way.
Philadelphia finished the afternoon 0-for-2 on the power play while holding Maryland scoreless on its lone opportunity. Both teams recorded nine penalty minutes.
The Rebels will close out their preseason schedule Friday afternoon with a rematch against the Black Bears in Maryland. Puck drop is scheduled for 2 p.m.