The Wheeling Nailers survived a tense Game 6, beating the Maine Mariners 2‑1 in overtime, with Emil Pieniniemi delivering the sudden‑death winner that forces a decisive Game 7.
Overtime Heroics
Goalie Taylor Gauthier turned in a 31‑save performance, highlighted by a breakaway stop on Ben Allison that kept the lead intact.
First‑Period Surge
Wheeling outshot Maine 12‑6 in the opening period, establishing early control of the tempo.
Third‑Period Response
Michael Underwood answered for the Mariners with a lone goal in the third period, narrowing the gap before regulation ended.
Both teams managed 12 shots apiece during overtime, but Gauthier’s steady hand and Luke Cavallin’s 46 saves on 48 attempts kept the game alive until Pieniniemi’s decisive strike.
Game 7 Set for Monday
The series will return to WesBanco Arena on Monday at 7:10 p.m., where the Nailers aim to close out the North Division Final and advance to the championship round.