Sabers wipe out Shredders with a 12-2 Victory
In a commanding display of skill and teamwork, the San Diego Sabers dominated the Long Beach Shredders with a resounding 12-2 victory at Lakewood Ice on Saturday night. The Sabers showcased their offensive prowess, firing on all cylinders from the first drop of the puck to the final buzzer.
The first period set the tone for the Sabers' dominance, with three power-play goals that left the Shredders scrambling to keep up. Early in the game, forward Frizado netted the first goal just 55 seconds into the power play, setting the stage for what would become a memorable night. Heskett and Frizado struck again with another set of power-play goals, closing out the first period with a commanding 3-0 lead.
#USPHLPremier: The @usphlsabers prepared for the #USPHLLasVegasShowcase by defeating the Long Beach Shredders by a decisive score, including a four-goal game by Justin Ouellet.
— USPHL (@USPHL) December 17, 2023
Their showcase schedule begins Monday at 8 a.m. vs. the Isanti Outlaws. pic.twitter.com/EToVrEAGCz
The second period saw the Shredders attempt to mount a comeback with a short-handed goal from Strutt, but the Sabers quickly quashed any hopes of a turnaround. Verstegen, Paganini, Ouellet, and another from Strutt closed out the second frame with a 7-2 lead for the Sabers.
The third period continued the Sabers' offensive onslaught, with five more goals that showcased the team's depth and versatility. Gradin, Ouellet (twice), and Paganini (twice) contributed to the impressive final score, leaving the Shredders with no answers.
The Sabers' special teams were firing on all cylinders, converting 5 out of 8 power-play opportunities. The penalty kill unit also proved formidable, denying the Shredders on 6 out of 7 power-play chances.
In the net, goaltender Vedernikov stood tall for the Sabers, turning away 22 of the 24 shots he faced. On the opposing end, Sadeghian faced an onslaught of 59 shots, making an impressive 47 saves but ultimately succumbing to the Sabers' relentless offensive pressure.
The game was not without its share of penalties and physicality, with both teams engaging in some heated moments. However, the Sabers maintained their composure and capitalized on their opportunities to secure a decisive victory.
With this dominant performance, the San Diego Sabers send a clear message to the league that they are a force to be reckoned with. As they look ahead to the USPHL Las Vegas Showcase, the Sabers aim to build on this momentum and continue their pursuit of success on the ice.