Who is Ryan Lombardo?

Ryan Lombardo is a 16-year-old emergency backup goaltender who made his NAHL debut for the Johnstown Tomahawks.

Why did the starting goalie get suspended?

The starting goalie, Zack Ferris, received a game misconduct and suspension for participating in his second fight of the season after the second-period buzzer.

What challenges did the Tomahawks face?

The Tomahawks faced challenges including multiple penalties, a 5-on-3 power play, a five-minute major penalty, and goalie suspensions, impacting their lineup.

Home / Sports / Teen Goalie Thrown Into NAHL Action

Teen Goalie Thrown Into NAHL Action

25 Jan

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Summary

A 16-year-old emergency backup goalie played in his first NAHL game.
The goalie entered the game after the starting netminder received a suspension.
The team faced a challenging situation with multiple penalties and suspensions.

A 16-year-old emergency backup goaltender unexpectedly found himself in net for the Johnstown Tomahawks' recent game against the Rochester Jr. Americans. Ryan Lombardo, who plays for a AAA team, entered the game for the third period after veteran goalie Zack Ferris received a game misconduct and suspension. Ferris was penalized for participating in his second fight of the season following the second-period buzzer.

Coach Adam Houli described Lombardo's situation as being 'thrown into a mine field' but praised his performance, noting he 'battled' and 'settled in.' The Tomahawks faced significant adversity, including killing off a 5-on-3 power play and a five-minute major penalty. The incident that led to the goalie shortage began after a Rochester player took a shot after the second-period buzzer, escalating into a fight between Ferris and the Jr. Americans' goalie.