Ghost Pirates rally late, sink Gladiators 2-1 in road win

Savannah scores twice in the third period to overcome Atlanta's early lead.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 4:36am

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The Savannah Ghost Pirates scored two unanswered goals in the third period to come from behind and defeat the Atlanta Gladiators 2-1 in a road game. After Atlanta took a 1-0 lead late in the second period, Savannah responded with a power-play goal and strong defensive play to secure the comeback victory.

Why it matters

This win keeps the Ghost Pirates in the playoff hunt in the competitive ECHL South Division. The late-game heroics demonstrate the team's resilience and ability to win close games on the road, which will be crucial as they push for a postseason berth.

The details

The Gladiators struck first when Adam Eisele scored a shorthanded breakaway goal late in the second period to give Atlanta a 1-0 lead. However, the Ghost Pirates quickly answered as Logan Drevitch's shot led to a rebound goal by Jaxsen Wiebe to tie the game 1-1 heading into the third period. In the final frame, Tristan Amonte tipped in a power-play goal off a shot by Will Riedell to give Savannah a 2-1 lead. The Ghost Pirates' penalty kill then stood strong, including during a lengthy 5-on-3 advantage for Atlanta, to preserve the one-goal victory.

  • The Gladiators scored the opening goal late in the second period.
  • The Ghost Pirates tied the game just moments after Atlanta's goal in the second period.
  • Savannah scored the game-winning goal just over six minutes into the third period.

The players

Savannah Ghost Pirates

The professional ice hockey team based in Savannah, Georgia that competes in the ECHL.

Atlanta Gladiators

The professional ice hockey team based in Atlanta, Georgia that also competes in the ECHL.

Tristan Amonte

A forward for the Savannah Ghost Pirates who scored the game-winning goal in the third period.

Vinnie Purpura

The goaltender for the Savannah Ghost Pirates who made 35 saves in the win.

T.J. Semptimphelter

The goaltender for the Atlanta Gladiators who made 27 saves in the loss.

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What’s next

Savannah returns to the ice Tuesday night for a rematch with the Gladiators in Atlanta, with puck drop set for 7:10 p.m.

The takeaway

The Ghost Pirates' late-game comeback and strong defensive play, particularly on the penalty kill, demonstrated the team's resilience and ability to win close games on the road, which will be crucial as they push for a playoff spot in the competitive ECHL South Division.