The Reading Royals were unable to extend their series lead in the ECHL North Division semifinals on Monday night.
Maine defeated the Royals 4-3 in overtime in Game 3 of the series in Portland, Maine, cutting Reading’s lead in the best-of-seven series to 2-1.
Forward Alex-Olivier Voyer scored the game-winning goal on a power play just over 14 minutes into overtime. The Mariners finished 1-for-4 on the power play, while the Royals finished 1-for-3.
Reading opened the scoring early in the first period with a power-play goal from forward Evan Barratt. Forward Charlie Gerard and defenseman Garrett McFadden had the assists.
Maine responded with a pair of goals. Defenseman Fedor Gordeev scored midway through the period to tie it. Forward Nick Master scored late in the first period to give the Mariners a 2-1 lead.
After a scoreless second period, Royals forward Zayde Wisdom scored less than two minutes into the third period to tie it 2-2. Forward Jacob Gaucher and McFadden were credited with the assists.
Midway through the third, Max Newton scored an unassisted goal to give Reading a 3-2 lead.
With less than three minutes remaining in regulation, the Mariners pulled goaltender François Brassard in favor of an extra skater. The move paid off as Maine forward Tim Doherty scored six seconds later to tie it 3-3.
In his first start of the series, Brassard made 36 saves. Royals goaltender Pat Nagle recorded 46 saves.
The two teams will face off in Game 4 on Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Maine. The Mariners also will host Game 5 on Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Source: Berkshire mont