Springfield Thunderbirds Advance To Atlantic Division Semifinal

The Springfield Thunderbirds have taken down the Charlotte Checkers in the first round of the playoffs following a Game 3 overtime victory.

The Thunderbirds caught fire late in the season to clinch a playoff spot, and the good times are continuing.

The Thunderbirds got a bit of a reality check in Game 1 when they were defeated 8-1. But following a goaltender change, as Georgi Romanov stepped into the crease, the series changed.

In Games 2 and 3, he stopped 63 of 66 shots, a .955 save percentage.

The Thunderbirds found themselves trailing after the first period in Game 2, but a strong middle frame and a great closing stanza by the Thunderbirds helped secure a 5-2 victory.

While Games 1 and 2 were high scoring, Game 3 was a defensive showdown. The Thunderbirds were trailing 1-0 in the third period, but a goal by Calle Rosen tied the game. Then, in overtime, trade acquisition Julien Gauthier scored the winner after a slick pass by Otto Stenberg.

Charlotte Checkers Eliminated From Calder Cup Playoffs Following Game 3 Overtime Loss

Charlotte Checkers Eliminated From Calder Cup Playoffs Following Game 3 Overtime Loss The Charlotte Checkers season is finished following their Game 3 overtime elimination by the hands of the Springfield Thunderbirds.

The Thunderbirds will now take on the Providence Bruins in the next round of the playoffs.