Thunderbirds salvage tie in St. Ignace

Little was decided in the West Division race as the Soo Thunderbirds and Northern Michigan Black Bears played to a tie in St. Ignace.

With the Thunderbirds holding a six point lead and four games in hand over the Black Bears, Northern Michigan had an opportunity to close the gap for the division title.

The Thunderbirds rallied with a goal late in regulation time to take 4-4 tie back home to Sault Ste. Marie in NOrthern Ontario Junior Hockey League action.

After Mike Herbert gave the Black Bears a lead with 3:21 remaining in the third period, Kelly Thomson scored for the Thunderbirds 33 seconds later to conclude the scoring.

After a scoreless first period, Northern Michigan took a 3-2 lead in the second period on two goals by Russell Law and another by Tyler Webb.

Aaron Anderson scored twice for the Thunderbirds in the period while adding his third to open the third period. Justin Towell recorded two assists for the Soo.

Casey Mapes of the Thunderbirds and Tony Stoehr each stopped 32 of 36 shots directed their way.

The Thunderbirds return to action on Friday against the Manitoulin Wild at 7:30 p.m. at the John Rhodes Community Centre.