Sebastian Woods comes up big for Utica Jr. Comets in win over Twin City Thunder

The Twin City Thunder put pucks on goal, but Utica Jr. Comets goalie Sebastian Woods was just on his game.

Woods made 28 saves in a 2-1 victory over the Thunder on Friday in a USPHL National Collegiate Development Conference game at the Islanders Hockey Club Showcase in Tyngsboro, Massachusetts.

“We were getting shots on net, and he made some great saves, give him a lot of credit,” Twin City Thunder coach Dan Hodge said. “He battled hard, we tried to get him out of position a couple of times, and he got himself back into position.”

The Comets (12-6-3, 27 points) took a 1-0 lead in the first minute of the game. Brendan Kennedy scored his fourth goal of the year for Utica.

Thunder (9-8-1, 19 points) defenseman Ryan Hintz tied the game at 1-1 with 8:20 remaining in the first period with his fifth goal of the season. Forwards Steven Armstrong and Tristan Rand had the assists.

“It was a nice goal; he came down to the right faceoff dot, and he ripped it past (Woods’) glove side,” Hodge said. “It was a nice shot; I am glad to see him score another goal.”

During the game, Hodge and assistant Cam Robichaud shook their heads after the 20-year-old Woods made a big save.

Utica scored early in the second period when defenseman Jesse Galassi beat Thunder goalie Dane Couture (15 saves).

Hodge said the team played well defensively.

“We told the guys before the game we had to play hard in the (defensive) zone,” Hodge said. “We had to be stingy, and we limited them to 17 shots and two goals. You think that’s a recipe for success, but again hats off to (Woods); he played (really) well.”

Both teams were scoreless on the power play.

The Thunder cap the Islanders HC showcase Saturday against the Jersey Hitmen at 9:50 a.m. in North Andover, Massachusetts.