The Buffalo Bandits overcame a four-goal deficit in the fourth quarter to defeat the San Diego Seals 9-8 in overtime at Pechanga Arena on March 22. Dhane Smith scored the game-winning goal in overtime, completing his hat trick and securing the Bandits’ fourth consecutive win.
The victory was notable for the Bandits’ resilience, as they endured several long scoring droughts throughout the game but managed to score five unanswered goals late in regulation and overtime. Josh Byrne led all players with seven points, surpassing 700 career points, while Smith contributed six points. The team trailed 8-4 with just over five minutes left before mounting their comeback.
Buffalo struggled offensively early on, managing only three goals through three quarters—all on power plays—and did not score a goal during even-strength play until Byrne found the net in the final quarter. Joe Resetarits sparked the late surge with his first goal since joining from Philadelphia, followed by contributions from Clay Scanlan and Tehoka Nanticoke. With less than a minute remaining, head coach John Tavares called a timeout after Connor Farrell won a crucial faceoff. Smith then tied the game at 8-8 with an extra attacker before scoring again nearly four minutes into overtime.
San Diego had contributions from 11 different players despite leading scorer Tre Leclaire being held without a goal. Ben McIntosh recorded a hat trick for the Seals, Wesley Berg added two goals, and goaltender Christopher Origlieri made 41 saves. On defense for Buffalo, Mitch de Snoo set a personal best with 20 loose ball recoveries along with three blocked shots and two turnovers created. Matt Vinc made 36 saves for Buffalo while Steve Priolo collected nine loose balls and four blocked shots.
The match featured frequent penalties—ten in total during the first half—which disrupted both teams’ rhythm. Priolo played his 250th career game but spent nearly four minutes shorthanded due to penalties in the opening quarter.
Looking ahead, lineup changes were made by Buffalo as Ian MacKay returned from injury alongside Dylan Robinson and rookie Carter Coffey making his second appearance.
