Oilers Struggle in OT but Clinch Playoff Berth

Despite a loss, Tulsa locked up its first playoff berth since 2005.

Thursday, May 26th 2011, 12:15 pm

By: News On 6

Oilers Struggle in OT but Clinch Playoff Berth

Originally Published: Mar 9, 2011 8:30 AM CDT

Oklahoma Sports Staff

TULSA, Okla.—The Tulsa Oilers fell short to Wichita in overtime by a final of 3-2, but will still make the playoffs for the first time since 2005.

Despite the loss, the Oilers move to the playoffs because the points the team earned combined with the Laredo Bucks 2-1 loss to Arizona assured Tulsa the postseason bid.

The first period of play was scoreless, but John Mori got things going for Tulsa in the second with a wraparound goal to put the Oilers up 1-0.

Wichita tied the game with a breakaway goal, but the Oilers answered when Tom Dignard raced down the ice and powered in a 20 foot shot to go up 2-1.

Later in the third Wichita’s Mike Looby tied the game 2-2 to send it to overtime.

In the extra period, with a mere 43 seconds remaining, Troy Schwab slid one in from the right post to give Wichita the 3-2 advantage.

Tulsa starts the first game of a six game road trip Friday in Rapid City at 8:05 CST.