OMAHA, Neb. (KELO.com) — The Sioux Falls Stampede were shutout for the first time this season to the Omaha Lancers at Ralston Arena Saturday night. Lancers forward Ross Mitton scored two goals in the contest, but The Herd spent seven consecutive minutes on the power play in the third period but failed to convert. Newly acquired Lancers forward Ross Mitton scored twice with Ryan Sorkin and Jack Randl adding goals for the 4-0 victory. Grant Adams made the start for Sioux Falls in net, stopping 30 of 34 shots.
The Stampede started the game with several quality scoring chances, but it was newly-acquired forward Ross Mitton with the first goal of the game with 5:56 left in the first period. Forward Jack Randl timed a perfect pass from the right circle to Mitton who was open in the slot for the quick shot and 1-0 lead. Each team swapped a power-play opportunity in the period, the only chance for the Lancers all night. The Lancers outshot the Herd 12-5 in the period.
The Stampede were awarded two power play opportunities in the second period, but it was the Lancers who found the back of the net again at the 15:10 mark of the period. Mitton scored his second of the game in a similar fashion to his first, giving the home team a 2-0 lead. Randl and Rhett Pitlick assisted on the goal.
A defining moment in the game came approximately halfway through the third period when Jack Jensen made head contact with Stampede captain Ryan Sullivan for a five-minute major penalty. The Herd failed to convert on the opportunity, but a too many men penalty was called on Omaha as the major penalty expired for an additional two minutes of power play time. The Herd again came up empty handed, finishing 0 for 5 on power play.
Ryan Sorkin and Jack Randl added goals late for the 4-0 victory. The Herd outshot Omaha 12 to 10 in the final frame.
Lancers goaltender Kyle McClellan earned his first career United States Hockey League shutout. Sioux Falls dropped to 2-7-1 on the season.
The Stampede will be on the road again for a standalone game against the Lincoln Stars at the Ice Box on Saturday, Nov. 9. Sioux Falls will play a road game in Sioux City on November 15 before returning home on Saturday, Nov. 16 for Military Appreciation Night at the PREMIER Center.
Puck drop scheduled at 7:05 p.m. for all three matchups. Fans can catch the game streaming live at HockeyTV.com or listen live on KELO Radio 107.9 FM, 1320 AM or Kelo.com.
