PEARCE PULLS OUT ALL THE STOPS

March 8, 2011 - GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS 3 at Peoria Rivermen 0

PEORIA, Ill. – Jordan Pearce sunk the Rivermen with his first career shutout on Tuesday to give Grand Rapids a 3-0 win over Peoria at Carver Arena, extending the Griffins' winning streak to four games in their push toward the playoffs.

With wins in six of their last seven games and seven of their last 10 (7-1-0-2), the Griffins (30-25-1-8) have climbed to within five points of a guaranteed playoff spot in the North Division. They'll look to close the gap further on Friday when they travel to Oklahoma City to take on the Barons at 7:05 p.m. at the Cox Convention Center.

A powerplay goal off the stick of Brendan Smith put an end to a scoreless tie with only 21 seconds remaining in the first period. Both teams battled through the middle frame, but Grand Rapids maintained its lead with critical saves made by Pearce.

Extending the Griffins' lead to 2-0, Brent Raedeke launched a shot past Jake Allen at 7:24 of the final period, while Jamie Johnson followed with a goal at 12:51 to account for the final margin.

Pearce finished with 36 saves while Allen tallied 32 stops.

Three Stars: 1. GR Pearce (W, 36 saves); 2. GR Johnson (1 goal, 1 assist); 3. GR Smith (1 goal)

Griffins Game Rewind

AHLLive Video Highlights

ESPN Radio Highlights: Smith Goal Raedeke Goal Johnson Goal

Official Game Report