Aviators blank Rebels in Jefferson-Swint II’s first shutout

SEWELL, N.J. – The Elmira Aviators (18-27-3-1) shut out the Philadelphia Rebels (19-26-2-1) thanks to a 39-save performance from Wesley Jefferson-Swint II Saturday night.

The shutout is the first of the 2007-born goaltender’s NAHL career. Jefferson-Swint II was spectacular for the full 60 minutes but was especially great down the stretch, collecting 14 third-period saves.

The Aviators’ offense was steady and in control Saturday night. Elmira got a goal in each period.

Elmira’s leading goal scorer Curtiss Sturgeon started it off with a power play goal in the opening frame. Gavin Duckworth wired a shot off the glove of Philadelphia goaltender Owen Crudale, and Sturgeon found the loose change to bury the game’s opener.

Sturgeon is up to 16 goals on the season.

The Aviators got their second goal in the middle period off the heels of a solid power play. Despite not scoring on that man-advantage, Elmira kept the puck in the attacking zone following the expiration of the man-advantage.

Former Philadelphia Rebel Jett Otwell then delivered a cross-ice pass to Matt Maglio, who leaned into a one-timer to double Elmira’s lead.

Jefferson-Swint II was the star of the third period, but Elmira got its final goal on an empty netter from Clarence Beltz assisted by Otwell.

With the win, the Aviators moved up to ninth in the East Division and are six points out of a playoff spot.

Next weekend, Elmira will travel to Johnstown to battle the Tomahawks. Game 1 is Friday, March 7, at 7:30 p.m., and Game 2 is Saturday, March 8, at 7 p.m.

The games can be streamed on NATV and listened to on Big Foot Country Legends.

Mac Young is the play-by-play voice of the Elmira Aviators. To contact him, email [email protected].