Ghost Pirates Defeat Gladiators 4-2 on Fan Appreciation Night

Savannah hockey team celebrates loyal fans with victory over Atlanta rivals.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:05am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the chaotic motion and energy of a hockey game, with overlapping planes of navy, green, and white shapes representing the players, puck, and arena.The Ghost Pirates' Fan Appreciation Night victory showcases the team's dynamic, community-driven spirit on the ice.Savannah Today

The Savannah Ghost Pirates defeated the Atlanta Gladiators 4-2 on Sunday at Enmarket Arena, marking the team's Fan Appreciation Night. Savannah struck first with a goal from Riley Hughes, assisted by Reece Vitelli and Scout Truman. Atlanta tied the game in the second period, but the Ghost Pirates regained the lead with goals from Ryan Sullivan and Hughes. Savannah added an insurance goal in the third period from Nicholas Zabaneh before Atlanta scored late to make it 4-2, but the home team held on for the victory.

Why it matters

The win on Fan Appreciation Night is an important morale boost for the Ghost Pirates as they head into the final stretch of the regular season. Savannah has built a loyal fanbase in its inaugural year, and this victory reinforces the team's connection to the community.

The details

Savannah opened the scoring in the first period when Reece Vitelli set up Riley Hughes for a one-timer goal. Atlanta tied it early in the second on a goal by Joey Cipollone, but the Ghost Pirates regained the lead on a goal from Ryan Sullivan, assisted by Liam Walsh and Nicholas Zabaneh. Hughes then scored his second of the game late in the second period, with Mason Reiners picking up an assist. Zabaneh added an insurance goal in the third period, with Alex Krause and Ivan Chukarov earning assists. Atlanta cut the lead to 4-2 late in the game on a goal by Cody Sylvester, but Savannah held on for the victory.

  • The game was played on Sunday, April 13, 2026.
  • Savannah struck first in the opening period.
  • Atlanta tied the game early in the second period.
  • The Ghost Pirates regained the lead midway through the second period.
  • Savannah added an insurance goal in the third period.

The players

Riley Hughes

A forward for the Savannah Ghost Pirates who scored two goals in the game.

Reece Vitelli

A forward for the Savannah Ghost Pirates who assisted on Hughes' first goal.

Scout Truman

A player for the Savannah Ghost Pirates who earned his first professional point with an assist on Hughes' opening goal.

Joey Cipollone

A forward for the Atlanta Gladiators who scored the team's first goal to tie the game.

Nicholas Zabaneh

A player for the Savannah Ghost Pirates who scored a goal and recorded an assist in the game.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was a great night to celebrate our amazing fans. They've been with us all season, and this win is for them.”

— Riley Hughes, Forward, Savannah Ghost Pirates

“We knew this was going to be a tough game against a division rival, but the team really came together and played hard for the fans tonight.”

— Liam Walsh, Forward, Savannah Ghost Pirates

What’s next

The Ghost Pirates will close out the regular season on Friday, April 18th against the South Carolina Stingrays during a special Star Wars Night event at Enmarket Arena. The game will be streamed on FloHockey and broadcast on Mixlr.

The takeaway

The Ghost Pirates' victory on Fan Appreciation Night demonstrates the team's growing connection to the Savannah community and their ability to deliver exciting hockey for their loyal supporters. This win sets the stage for an eventful final game of the regular season as the team looks to build momentum heading into the playoffs.