WICHITA, Kan. (Oct. 24) – Led by a brilliant performance from rookie netminder Matt Davis, the Wichita Thunder withstood a 15-shot third period from Rapid City, holding on for a 1-0 victory over the Rush on Friday night at The Monument.
In just his second ECHL start, Matt Davis stopped all 41 shots to earn his first pro win in shutout fashion while Jay Dickman’s hot hand continued, scoring the lone goal of the contest.
After killing off an early penalty for too many men, the Thunder got to work on a power-play of their own when Ryan Chyzowski was whistled for interference at 5:03 of the first period. On the ensuing man-advantage, Dickman buried a rebound off a Peter Bates one-timer to give the Thunder a 1-0 lead.
Throughout the second period, both teams traded blows, though Rapid City outshot Wichita, 16-11. The Rush had their best chance with just under four minutes. After Davis turned aside a shot from the right circle, Carter Wilkie corralled the rebound behind the net and tried to stuff a wrap-around past the netminder. However, Davis stretched out his right pad to preserve the lead for the visitors.
Despite holding the lead entering the final frame, the Thunder were forced to kill off two penalties. The Rush racked up a 15-7 shot advantage over the final frame, including the final eight shots on net. However, Davis stood tall and held off Rapid City for the 1-0 win.
Wichita snags its first win of the season. Dickman recorded his first goal and third point of the year and has factored in on each of Wichita’s goals this year. Kyle Crnkovic has points in back-to-back games. Bates has assists in two-straight.
The Thunder closes their road trip in the Black Hills tomorrow night at 8:05 p.m. against Rapid City.
Single game tickets for all games are on sale now. Our next homestand takes place starting on Wednesday, October 29 against the Florida Everblades. Buy tickets by clicking HERE.
Season tickets are still on sale for the 2025-26 season. Lock in your seats and catch all the high paced, hard-hitting action at INTRUST Bank Arena. Click HERE now to learn how you can get your seats reserved and start paying now.