The game saw Alpena’s offense come alive in the second period, securing the victory, but Romeo drew first blood, scoring just two minutes into the game, putting Alpena on the back foot early.

However, the Wildcats responded with Clark Weir scoring a goal with eight minutes left in the first period, assisted by Gavin Winterstein and Michael Kreis. The goal tied the game at 1-1, allowing Alpena to regain some momentum heading into the locker room.

Head coach Ben Henry reflected on the significance of that goal, stating, “Clark’s goal in the first period, going into the locker room tied 1-1, was huge for us. We had a good start but just couldn’t score early. The goal helped us reset and carry that momentum into the second period.”

The second period saw Alpena take control. The Wildcats capitalized on two power play opportunities.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Alpena’s Gavin Winterstein and other Wildcats celebrate after Clark Weir scores the first goal of the game on Saturday against Romeo in Alpena. AHS topped Romeo 4-2.

Garrett Hamp gave Alpena their first lead of the game with 11 minutes left in the game, assisted by Winterstein. Just a few minutes later, Preston Schuldt added to the lead, scoring with eight minutes remaining, with assists from Ethan Walker and Winterstein.

“We just became a lot simpler in the second period,” Henry said. “In the first, we were trying to be too fancy, making too many pre-plays. In the second, we played a much simpler game and just let our speed take over. We got pucks in, got pucks out, and we were faster in the second period than the first.”

Romeo managed another goal two minutes into the third period, narrowing the gap to 3-2. But Alpena responded quickly, as Joe Lacross scored with an assist from Brody Misiak to restore a two-goal lead.

With the 4-2 scoreline intact, Alpena held on to secure the win.

“We took care of business after that, stayed smart, played simple,” Henry added.

News Photo by Leslianne Johns Clark Weir attempts a slapshot goal on Saturday during Alpena’s hockey game against Romeo at Northern Lights Arena. Weir scored the first goal of the game, jumpstarting their 4-2 victory.

Alpena travels to Gaylord for their next game at 6 p.m. on Friday.