The Wheeling Nailers secured their spot in the 2024 Kelly Cup Playoffs with a resounding 6-0 victory over the Cincinnati Cyclones on Saturday night at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex. Goalie Jaxon Castor was flawless in net, stopping all 17 shots he faced, while Jordan Martel and Matt Koopman each scored two goals to lead the Nailers to victory.
The game started off scoreless in the first period, but Wheeling quickly took control in the second period, scoring four goals and outshooting Cincinnati 15-4. The Nailers wasted no time getting on the board, with Matt Koopman scoring just 34 seconds into the period off a pass from Justin Addamo.
The Nailers continued to dominate, with Jordan Martel and Justin Lee adding goals on the power play. Martel showcased his skills with a highlight-reel goal, pulling the puck around to his backhand and lifting a shot into the top-left corner of the net. Jared Westcott and Koopman also found the back of the net to give Wheeling a commanding 4-0 lead.
In the third period, Martel and Koopman added two more goals to seal the victory for the Nailers. Martel capitalized on a cross-crease pass from Koopman, while Koopman himself scored a shorthanded slapshot to complete the 6-0 win.
With this impressive performance, the Wheeling Nailers are now set to compete in the Kelly Cup Playoffs, showcasing their strength and skill as they aim for championship glory.