The Colorado Grit battled their way to a 4-3 overtime victory against the New Mexico Ice Wolves on Saturday night. Following a tough loss the night before, the Grit were determined to respond—and they did just that in front of a hostile crowd.

The opening period was a grind, with both teams fighting forf ice. Peter Sterling was outstanding between the pipes, shutting down multiple high-danger chances from the Ice Wolves and keeping the game scoreless.

The Grit wasted no time making an impact in the second period. Carson Pavlowich broke the deadlock, giving the Grit the lead. New Mexico responded just three minutes later, but the Grit refused to let momentum swing. Pavlowich struck again to regain the lead, and at 13:29, Sheldon Rioux capitalized to extend Colorado’s advantage to 3-1.

The intensity ramped up, resulting in a massive brawl that saw ten penalties assessed. Neither team backed down, and the Grit proved they weren’t just playing to win—they were fighting for every shift.

New Mexico came out strong in the final period, scoring two quick goals from Jake Kasay and François De Villiers to even the score. From that moment on,the Grit’s defensive core stood tall, absorbing pressure and blocking shots, while Sterling continued to come up big in net. Neither team could find the go-ahead goal, sending the game to overtime.

The Grit refused to let this one slip away. Just minutes into overtime, George Poirier delivered the game-winner, burying to give Colorado the victory. The arena erupted as the Grit secured two crucial points and set up a decisive rubber match against the Ice Wolves tomorrow.