Asheville Aces Sweep the Weekend in Raleigh

On Saturday Dec 14th, the Champion Asheville Aces played a four game set against the Jacksonville Citrus Kings (FL) in Raleigh, NC. The Aces were able to sweep the series in convincing fashion. Goaltending was strong on Saturday as Josh Littlejohn went 2-0 allowing 3 goals in two games. Brandon Shirley went 2-0 allowing 1 goal in those two games and recording a shutout. 

Game Recaps: 

Game 1: Aces 5 - Citrus Kings 1
The Asheville Aces started out slow in the first period as they got their legs under them from the long commute before game time. As the first period moved along it was clear that the Aces were the better team in the matchup. With strong goaltending, as Littlejohn made some key saves to keep the game out of reach, and a strong forecheck, The Aces were able to win this game in dominant fashion.

Game 2: Aces 5 - Citrus Kings 2
This game was no different than the first game. The Aces dominated with their strong forecheck, solid goaltending and good defense. The only difference in this game is that Asheville got themselves in some penalty trouble and let in a goal on special teams. 

Game 3: Aces 4 - Citrus Kings 0
In Game 3, the Asheville Aces forechecked with speed, forcing turnovers and suffocated their opponent. Brandon Shirley posted the teams first shutout in PIHA history as he stood strong in net and continued the strong goaltending theme this weekend. This game could have easily been higher scoring but there were many missed opportunities. Nonetheless, yet another strong all around game.

Game 4: Aces 5 - Citrus Kings 2

This game was no different from the previous three. Asheville Aces dominant on the forecheck, control the pace of game, played well defensively and another strong game for the netminder, Brandon Shirley. 

Champion Asheville Aces move to 8 Wins, 5 Losses, and 1 OT Loss sitting in 3rd place with 25 points.

1. Apex TW MoPs: 34pts
2. Broadway Blades: 28pts
3. Asheville Aces: 25pts
4. Citrus Kings: 12pts
5. ATL Phantoms: 6pts