Brahmas’ Cacciola blanks SteelHounds, 2-0

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, Texas — Kevin McLeod and Tyler Skworchinski scored the goals and David Cacciola made 37 saves, leading the Texas Brahmas to a 2-0 victory over the Youngstown SteelHounds in a Central Hockey League game Tuesday night.

The SteelHounds (29-19-4) fell into a tie with Mississippi for second place in the Northeast Division and fourth place in the Northern Conference. Texas (30-20-1) is just one point behind the RiverKings and Youngstown.

The SteelHounds, who have lost seven of their last 10 games, outshot Texas 37-32 but couldn’t solve Cacciola in goal. It was Youngstown’s first shutout loss since March 17, 2006.

Youngstown was 0-for-5 on power plays, while the Brahmas were 1-for-10.

McLeod gave Texas a 1-0 lead less than two minutes into the game. With a man advantage, Craig Minard and Jordan Cameron assisted on McLeod’s goal with 18:03 remaining.

The Brahmas made it 2-0 with 16:55 remaining in the second period on Skworchinski’s goal. Cameron and McLeod were credited with the assists.

Youngstown was whistled for 13 penalties, while the Brahmas were called for nine.

Kevin Beech, who earned the win Sunday in a shootout win over Amarillo, suffered the loss despite stopping 30 shots.

The SteelHounds return to the Chevrolet Centre for three games against the Wichita Thunder on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Game times are 7:05 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 4:05 p.m. Sunday.