Frontenacs' win over Steelheads put them within reach of Ice Dogs

Nolan Synder led the way with two points including the eventual game-winning goal.

With a playoff spot in their back pocket, the Kingston Frontenacs will be using the remaining to catch up to Niagara in the standings.

But it was a playoff-like atmosphere at Slush Puppie Place on Friday as the Frontenacs welcomed the Brampton Steelheads. The Steelheads (15-26-6-3) are trying to catch Sudbury for the final spot.

After a scoreless first period, Brampton capitalized on a bad giveaway by Gavin Betts (22 saves). Julian DeMiglio picked off the clearing attempt and did not miss a wide open net as Betts was caught off guard for a 1-0 Steelheads lead.

The Frontenacs (28-28-3-2) responded on the power play five minutes later. Aleks Kulemin's wrist shot got past the glove side of Zach Bowen (27 saves) to tie it at 1-1.

At one time in the bottom of the league, Kingston's power play (1-for-5) has dramatically improved thanks in part to Kulemin's play.

He says that has how they've been able to turn their season around.

Later in the period, Nolan Snyder tipped in Tomas Pobezal's shot from the point seconds after another power play expired to give the Frontenacs a 2-1 lead.

Head coach Troy Mann continues to be impressed with the play of Kulemin, Snyder, and Robin Kuzma on the third line.

Betts made that one-goal lead stand as Kingston gave Brampton few chances to get the equalizer the rest of the way. The final score was 2-1 for the Frontenacs.

Overall, Mann felt the team could have played better but is glad they were able to get the two points.

Kulemin says the game showed they can find a way to win despite not being able to put pucks into the net.

The win puts the Frontenacs three points back of the Ice Dogs for sixth place. The next game is Sunday afternoon against the Oshawa Generals at Slush Puppie Place.

If you can't make it down, tune in to New Country 98.9 for Upper Canada Fuel and Burner Frontenacs Hockey with Jim Gilchrist starting at 2:05 pm.

Story by Ken Hashizume