BROOKLYN, NY – It took time but the Brooklyn Aces finally solved the Rockhoppers’ Nick Niedert in net and grabbed a 1-0 series lead in the

Photo by Bill Thebert

EPHL’s championship series.

Andrew Scampoli netted the game winner for the Aces at the 4:26 mark of the extra session.  EPHL Rookie of the Year, CJ Tozzo fed Scampoli the pass that set up the game winning shot.

Eddie Neville picked up the win for the Aces in net in stopping 35 of 37 shots on goal.  Niedert faced 39 shots on the night and was stellar in net in keeping the Rockhoppers in the game throughout regulation. 

Photo by Bill Thebert

Jersey’s Drew Sanders had staked the Hoppers to an early 1-0 lead before Brooklyn’s Tozzo knotted the score in the 15^th minute of the first period.

In the third, Jersey jumped out in front again when Chris Ferazzoli raced in and converted a Nick Grove assist at the 0:16 mark of the period.  But Jesse Felton tied the score on a power play mark at 5:13.  That set the stage for Scampoli’s heroics in the overtime session.

Photo by Bill Thebert

The game was a thrilling opening act in the EPHL's championship series and demonstrated the talent level in the league.  The Rockhoppers showed mettle in going the distance against the Aces who ran rough shod over the league in the regular season.

Friday the Jersey Rockhoppers will look to even the series and extend the championship round to a decisive game three on Saturday evening.  Games two and three will also be at Aviator Arena in Brooklyn.

Contact the author at lou.lafrado@prohockeynews.com.

 Contact the photographer at bill.thebert@prohockeynews.com.