The Utah Grizzlies have been playing like superheroes for the majority of the hockey season, so no surprise that the club faced off against the rival Rapid City Rush in “Batman” themed jerseys. As it turned out, the uniforms were warranted. Three players in particular played as if imbued with supernatural qualities: Yuri “Samurai” Terao, Josh “Lil’ Dicky” Dickinson and Griffin “Mo” Molino. Each player blistered the back of the net as the Grizzlies dominated the Rush on both ends of the ice, defeating Rapid City 3-1.
“It starts with goaltending and when you look at our lineup from top to bottom there aren’t any weaknesses,” Dickinson said. “We’re an all around team that knows how to play well together. Every guy can make plays and plays their position well.”
“In what has become a recurring theme in recent weeks and even months, once again Utah outshot its’ opponent by a wide margin. Playing complete hockey on offense, defense and special teams, it’s the little things the Grizzlies are doing by outworking opponents that is resulting in victories.
“Our guys have a hardworking mindset,” head coach Tim Branham said. “When you can have talent that works hard that is a dangerous thing. We want to make sure we’re playing this style come playoff time and when you throw our skill into the mix, good things can happen.”
And playing his first game back at the Maverik Center since being loaned to the Providence Bruins, goaltender Martin Ouellette picked right up from where he left off. All Ouellette does when he puts on a Grizzlie jersey is win, and tonight was no different. In fact, Ouellette was the number one star of the night and was just two minutes away from pitching a shutout.
Utah took advantage of their special teams opportunities in the contest. Presented with a sustained five-on-three power play, Terao found a crease in open ice and fired a shot for an early Grizzlie lead. Rapid City’s goal was scored by Tanner Karty late in the third period. Both teams will resume their rivalry on Wednesday night at the Maverik Center.
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