On Friday, February 20, 2026, the Springfield Thunderbirds and Bridgeport Islanders played a tightly contested ice hockey match that remained tied after regulation and overtime. The intense game, held in Springfield, was ultimately decided in a shootout, with the Thunderbirds clinching a 5-4 win, highlighted by a decisive goal from Thomas Bordeleau.
Early Lead Built by Thunderbirds
The Thunderbirds quickly established momentum in the first period when Thomas Bordeleau put Springfield ahead. Shortly after, Chris Wagner extended their lead to 2-0. Bridgeport responded just before the end of the opening period with Julien Gauthier scoring to make it 2-1.
Second and Third Periods See Back-and-Forth Scoring
Springfield’s Aleksanteri Kaskimäki furthered the lead early in the second period. However, Bridgeport fought back in the third frame with Hunter Drew narrowing the margin and Liam Foudy tying the game at 3-3 just minutes apart. The Islanders took the lead when Pierrick Dube scored, but Springfield quickly leveled the score at 4-4 thanks to Hugh McGing’s goal, setting up a dramatic finish.
Decisive Moments in Shootout Decide Winner
The game remained tied through overtime, leading to a shootout to determine the victor. Thomas Bordeleau rose to the occasion by scoring the winning penalty shot, securing Springfield’s 5-4 shootout triumph.
Upcoming Fixtures for Both Teams
Following this contest, both teams have another game scheduled on Saturday, February 21, 2026. The Thunderbirds will face Providence at 5:05 p.m. CST, while the Islanders travel to take on the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins at the same time.
Game Scoring Recap
First Period:
14:54 – Thomas Bordeleau (Springfield) 0-1
16:10 – Chris Wagner (Springfield) 0-2
19:05 – Julien Gauthier (Bridgeport) 1-2
Second Period:
26:53 – Aleksanteri Kaskimäki (Springfield) 1-3
Third Period:
45:02 – Hunter Drew (Bridgeport) 2-3
48:42 – Liam Foudy (Bridgeport) 3-3
51:31 – Pierrick Dube (Bridgeport) 4-3
54:28 – Hugh McGing (Springfield) 4-4
