International Falls Shuts Out Ely 5-0 in Dominant Performance
International Falls delivered an impressive all-around performance against Ely, securing a 5-0 victory at the Ely Ice Arena. The Broncos controlled the game from the opening faceoff, outshooting the Timberwolves 54-15 and executing effectively on both ends of the ice.
First Period
The scoring opened at 12:24 when Zach Youso converted on a power play, assisted by Asher Keep, giving International Falls a 1-0 lead. Ely struggled to generate offense, managing only three shots in the period.
Second Period
International Falls took complete control in the second frame, scoring four unanswered goals. Grae Shikowsky extended the lead at 1:17 with an even-strength goal assisted by Andrew Eide and William Yerxa. Just a minute later, Anthony Yerxa buried the first of his two goals, with Shikowsky and William Yerxa collecting assists.
The Broncos continued their offensive surge as Yerxa added another tally at 3:07, set up by Eide and Carter Thompson. Andrew Eide capped off the period with a goal at 10:39, assisted by both Yerxa brothers, pushing the lead to 5-0.
Third Period
Neither team found the back of the net in the final period. International Falls maintained their defensive structure, limiting Ely to just six shots while firing 13 of their own.
Special Teams
International Falls capitalized on one of three power-play opportunities, with Youso’s first-period goal being the highlight. Ely went 0-for-2 on the power play, struggling to generate scoring chances against a disciplined Broncos penalty kill.
Goaltending
Kane Thompson led the way in net for International Falls, stopping all 13 shots he faced in 48 minutes of play, with Caleb Joslyn contributing two saves in a brief appearance. For Ely, Ben Leeson was tested frequently and made 49 saves, finishing with a .907 save percentage.
Key Performers
- Anthony Yerxa (IF): 2 goals, 1 assist
- Andrew Eide (IF): 1 goal, 2 assists
- William Yerxa (IF): 3 assists
- Kane Thompson (IF): 13 saves, shutout
Looking Ahead
International Falls improves their record to 7-2 and will look to continue their momentum in upcoming games. Ely will aim to regroup and find solutions to spark their offense in the next matchup.
