ELMIRA, N.Y. – The Elmira Aviators (8-11-3-0) dropped their third straight one-score game, losing 3-2 to the New Jersey Titans (12-7-1-2) at the LECOM Event Center Friday night.
The regulation loss snaps a five-game point streak and extends a three-game losing streak for Elmira.
The Aviators couldn’t have started Friday night’s matchup any better. Elmira got right into the attacking zone, and Max Campbell set up Jack Kohlmann for a one-timer in prime real estate.
Kohlmann did not miss it for his team-leading ninth goal on the campaign just 15 seconds into the game.
The Titans were ready for a fast start as well. They answered the Aviators’ opening tally just over a minute later when Hudson Slenker snuck a tight-angled shot through for his first career NAHL goal.
New Jersey grabbed the lead in a penalty-filled second period. Once again, it was Slenker for the Titans, getting his second of the game on a skilled deflection in front.
Despite taking three penalties in the period and six for the game, the Elmira penalty kill was perfect on the night.
Down 3-1 in the third period, the Aviators got some life with a power play goal from Max Campbell.
However, the Titans’ tight checking and strong goaltending prevented the Aviator comeback. Even with the extra attacker out in the final moments, Elmira failed to create any high-quality chances.
The Aviators will attempt to secure a series split with the Titans Saturday night at the LECOM Event Center. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m. The game can be streamed on NATV or listened to on WINGZ93.
Mac Young is the play-by-play voice of the Elmira Aviators. To contact him, email [email protected].