The Youngstown Phantoms’ season came to an end in a hard-fought battle against the Dubuque Fighting Saints. Despite their best efforts, the Phantoms fell short in Game 4, losing 2-0 and ending their title defense run with a 3-1 series loss.
The game was a goaltender showdown between Aiden Wright and Kevin Reidler, with both teams unable to score until the third period. Dubuque’s Beckett Hendrickson broke the deadlock with a goal, followed by another goal from Lucas St. Louis to secure the win.
Phantoms coach Ryan Ward praised Dubuque for their strong performance and commended his team for their efforts throughout the series. Despite the loss, Ward expressed pride in his players’ resilience and determination.
Looking ahead, Ward is optimistic about the team’s future, with 17 players set to return next season. He highlighted the growth and development of the team throughout the year, emphasizing their grit and passion on the ice.
As the season comes to a close, the Phantoms bid farewell to departing players, including captain Andrew Strathmann, who will be moving on to North Dakota. Ward praised Strathmann for his character and leadership, noting his impact on the program.
Overall, the Phantoms may not have repeated as champions, but they leave the season with their heads held high, knowing they gave their all on the ice. With a young and promising roster, the team looks forward to building on their experiences and striving for success in the future.