The Atlanta Gladiators continued their impressive undefeated streak (8-0-0-0) with a decisive 5-2 victory over the Jacksonville Icemen (4-3-1-0) Saturday evening at Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Florida. This win gave the Atlanta Gladiators a franchise-best of 8-0.
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The Gladiators took an early lead with Mitch Fossier’s breakaway goal just past the five-minute mark of the first period, going ahead 1-0. Fossier showcased his speed, skillfully maneuvering backhand to forehand and roofing home the opening goal while the team was shorthanded.
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Atlanta doubled their lead late in the first period, making it 2-0 at 17:25. Fossier’s between-the-legs pass found Reece Vitelli, who set up Micah Miller for a goal, extending Miller’s tally to six for the season.
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In the second period, Vitelli scored himself, jumping on a rebound in front of Jacksonville’s net, bringing the score to 3-0 at 5:06.
https://youtu.be/wS_rRRw9hEw?si=QotmIrOXjwqO64ot
Although the Icemen ended Tyler Harmon’s shutout bid early in the third period, making it 3-1 at 00:37, Atlanta quickly regained their three-goal lead. Ryan Cranford netted his second campaign goal at 5:38, making it 4-1.
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Despite Jacksonville cutting the Gladiators’ advantage to two at 8:10, Atlanta sealed the win with an empty net goal in the game’s dying seconds, ending with a 5-2 score. Micah Miller notched his second goal of the night, securing the Gladiators’ victory.
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Tyler Harmon’s standout performance included 31 saves on 33 shots, contributing to Atlanta’s success. In contrast, Michael Houser faced 24 shots and allowed four goals in the loss for Jacksonville.
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Top Performers:
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– First Star: Mitch Fossier (ATL) – 1 goal, two assists, +3
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– Second Star: Reece Vitelli (ATL) – 1 goal, two assists, +3
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– Third Star: Anthony Petruzzelli (JAX) – 1 goal
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This is Dez Barnes of Pretty Girls Love Sports, a new writer on the MTMV Sports platform. I am a retired US Army veteran, professional cheerleader, dog mom, and avid sports lover. Feel free to follow my writings as I dive into the latest sports news! You can find me on all social media channels @PGLOVESPORTS.
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