UPDATE: The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins have just delivered a decisive victory against the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, winning 6-2 at Mohegan Arena on December 1, 2023. This latest triumph marks the Penguins’ fourth consecutive win over the Phantoms this season, solidifying their dominance in the Atlantic Division.
The game kicked off with both teams tied at 1-1 after the first period. However, the Penguins surged ahead in the second period, scoring three goals in quick succession. Sam Poulin ignited the scoring frenzy just seven minutes into the first period, giving WBS an early lead. The Penguins then put the game out of reach with goals from Tristan Broz on the power play, followed by back-to-back scores from Danton Heinen and Avery Hayes within a six-minute stretch, extending their lead to 4-1.
As the clock wound down, Atley Calvert found the net, and Aidan McDonough capped the scoring with another power-play goal with just 12 minutes left in the match, sealing the fate of the Phantoms.
In goal, Sergei Murashov was stellar, stopping 34 of 36 shots fired at him. This victory keeps the Penguins at the top of the Atlantic Division with a record of 16-5-1, maintaining a narrow lead over the Providence Bruins. Meanwhile, the Phantoms remain two points ahead of the Hershey Bears for the third playoff spot.
Looking ahead, the Penguins are set to face the Bears in Hershey on Saturday, December 2, 2023, before returning home next Saturday to take on the Bruins. This series of games is critical as the Penguins aim to solidify their position at the top of the division.
Fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close watch on WBS as they continue their quest for a championship, with each game carrying significant weight in the standings. Stay tuned for more updates as the season progresses!
