Matt Climie wins goalie duel as Wolves top Admirals

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Updated: February 15, 2012 8:09AM

Goals were at a premium in the Wolves’ game with the Midwest Division-rival Milwaukee Admirals on Friday night at Allstate Arena.

With both goalies playing well, the game boiled down to which team could create more chances. The Wolves won that battle in a 2-1 victory, edging the Admirals 34-32 in shots on goal.

The win moved the Wolves into a tie for first place in the division with the Charlotte Checkers, who did not play Friday.

The Wolves, who host the Lake Erie Monsters on Saturday night, have won five straight games and 12 of their last 15.

‘‘Tough game, a lot of intensity, a lot of battles, a lot of drama,’’ Wolves coach Craig MacTavish said.
‘‘The intensity was shared on both teams. Both goalies were exceptional, and it was a hell of a game. . . . Highly entertaining — a little too entertaining at the end.’’

After a scoreless first period, Wolves forward Michael Davies beat Jeremy Smith (16-7-1, 32 saves) for the game’s first goal at 0:57 in the second period. Just a little over a week removed from the flu and an ear infection, Davies is on a two-goal streak after scoring his first goal of the season Wednesday in a 4-2 win against the Rockford IceHogs.

Admirals center Michael Latta evened the game at 1 at 6:19 in the second period on a power play after the puck deflected off Wolves defenseman Yann Sauve and trickled under goalie Matt Climie’s left arm.

Other than that lone defensive blemish, Climie (12-5-0) was stellar between the pipes for his third victory during the Wolves’ winning streak. He had a spectacular stick save in the latter part of the first period and limited Milwaukee’s opportunities off rebounds.

Left wing Bill Sweatt scored at 18:59 in the second period to put the Wolves ahead to stay.