The Springfield Thunderbirds have taken down the Charlotte Checkers in the first round of the playoffs following a Game 3 overtime victory.

The Thunderbirds caught fire late in the season to clinch a playoff spot, and the good times are continuing.

The Thunderbirds got a bit of a reality check in Game 1 when they were defeated 8-1. But following a goaltender change, as Georgi Romanov stepped into the crease, the series changed.

In Games 2 and 3, he stopped 63 of 66 shots, a .955 save percentage.

The Thunderbirds found themselves trailing after the first period in Game 2, but a strong middle frame and a great closing stanza by the Thunderbirds helped secure a 5-2 victory.

While Games 1 and 2 were high scoring, Game 3 was a defensive showdown. The Thunderbirds were trailing 1-0 in the third period, but a goal by Calle Rosen tied the game. Then, in overtime, trade acquisition Julien Gauthier scored the winner after a slick pass by Otto Stenberg.

Charlotte Checkers Eliminated From Calder Cup Playoffs Following Game 3 Overtime Loss The Charlotte Checkers season is finished following their Game 3 overtime elimination by the hands of the Springfield Thunderbirds.

The Thunderbirds will now take on the Providence Bruins in the next round of the AHL playoffs.

In addition to the Thunderbirds, the St. Louis Blues ECHL affiliate is also taking on another Florida Panthers affiliate, as the Florida Everblades hold a 2-0 series lead over the Savannah Ghost Pirates.

The Thunderbirds continue their quest for the Calder Cup on May 1.

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