Gems Drop Opener In Tiebreaker

Dayton hockey fans easily drowned out the 300 or so Indiana commuters that made the three hour trek to Hara Arena Friday. That is until a 3rd period rally that erased the early Gems lead sending the season opener into overtime.

Two minutes later the Ft Wayne Komets claimed the 4-3 victory.

The Dayton Gems emerged strong scoring twice in the first period and again in the second. It was all there, puck handling, big checks on the boards, and 2800 new fans eager to enjoy the inaugural IHL season in the revamped Hara.

The Gems were game on during the first two periods chalking up a 3-1 lead with goals by Sam Bloom, Johnathon Ornelas, and Phil Youngclaus. But last seasons IHL champions controlled the third period effectively shutting down the Gem offense. The Komets kept most of the third period play in the Gems half of the ice.

Bobby Reed muscles by Ft Wayne Defenseman Matt Woodard in the second period of the Dayton Gems season opener.

Danny Lapointe takes a shot at Komet goalie Nick Boucher.

Reed gets a break away from a second period puck drop.

Reed takes a right jab from Komet Leo Thomas as things heated up in the third period.