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Utica Today
By the People, for the People
Islanders Defeat Comets With Late Game-Winning Goal
Matthew Highmore's clutch third-period tally seals 2-1 victory for Bridgeport
Published on Feb. 24, 2026
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In a tight matchup on February 17, 2026, the Bridgeport Islanders defeated the Utica Comets 2-1, with Matthew Highmore's late game-winning goal proving to be the difference. The Islanders took an early lead in the second period through Matthew Maggio, but the Comets quickly responded to tie the game. The score remained knotted until Highmore's decisive strike in the third period, which held up as the final margin of victory for Bridgeport.
Why it matters
This win helps the Islanders maintain their position in the standings and builds momentum heading into their next game against the Thunderbirds. For the Comets, the loss is a setback as they look to climb the rankings and secure a playoff spot.
The details
The game was scoreless through the first period, with both teams playing tight defense. Early in the second, Maggio put Bridgeport on the board, but the Comets quickly answered with a goal from Mclaughlin to tie it up. The game remained deadlocked until late in the third, when Highmore netted the game-winner for the Islanders.
- The game was played on February 17, 2026.
- Maggio scored for the Islanders at 22:39 of the second period.
- Mclaughlin tied the game for the Comets at 41:31 of the second period.
- Highmore scored the game-winning goal for the Islanders at 53:30 of the third period.
The players
Matthew Highmore
A forward for the Bridgeport Islanders who scored the game-winning goal in the third period.
Matthew Maggio
A forward for the Bridgeport Islanders who scored the team's first goal in the second period.
Marc Mclaughlin
A forward for the Utica Comets who scored the team's lone goal to tie the game in the second period.
What they’re saying
“That was a huge goal by Highmore to seal the win for us. He's been clutch all season and really stepped up when we needed him most.”
— Bridgeport Islanders Head Coach (theconwaybulletin.com)
What’s next
The Islanders will look to build on this win when they face the Thunderbirds on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 6:05 p.m. CST. The Comets will try to bounce back against the Wolf Pack on the same day at 6:00 p.m. CST.
The takeaway
This game showcased the Islanders' resilience and ability to win close, low-scoring affairs. Highmore's late heroics demonstrated the team's depth and clutch scoring ability, which will be crucial as they push for a playoff spot in the competitive AHL standings.
