URGENT UPDATE: The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins have just clinched their third consecutive victory against the Hershey Bears, overpowering them with a decisive 5-2 win at Mohegan Arena on December 30, 2023. The Penguins’ explosive performance in the first period solidified their dominance, as they surged to a strong lead that the Bears could not overcome.
The Penguins scored an astonishing five goals in the first period alone, establishing a commanding 2-0 lead within just three minutes of the game. Nolan Renwick netted the opening goal just two minutes in, quickly followed by Raivis Ansons finding the net at the three-minute mark. Although the Bears responded with a goal to bring the score to 2-1, the Penguins swiftly regained the momentum with back-to-back goals from Gabe Klassen and Phil Tomasino, who scored his fifth of the season, pushing the score to 5-1 by the end of the first period.
Despite both teams attempting 21 shots each, the Penguins capitalized on their opportunities far better. Sergei Murashov stood strong in net, stopping 19 of 21 shots to secure the win. This victory not only adds to the Penguins’ impressive season record, bringing them to 4-1 against Hershey this year, but also elevates them to a crucial three-point lead over Providence for first place in the Atlantic Division.
With playoffs approaching, this win is pivotal for the Penguins and their fans alike. The Bears, now in fifth place in the division behind Charlotte and Lehigh Valley, will need to regroup quickly.
Looking ahead, the Penguins will face Lehigh Valley next on December 31, 2023, at 3 p.m.. Fans can expect an exciting matchup as the Penguins aim to extend their winning streak. Following that, they will host Charlotte on January 2 before heading to Syracuse on January 6.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as the Penguins continue their pursuit of the top spot in the league!