Mercier nets three in OT win

Logan, UT (10/11/13) - Brett Robinson's quick shot from the slot at 2:25 of overtime lifted the Idaho Steelheads to a 6-5 win over the Utah Grizzlies in the pre-season opener for both teams at the Eccles Ice Center in Logan, UT.Idaho's Justin Mercier picked up a hat trick, scoring three goals for Idaho in his first appearance with the team. He also had an assist to end with a four-point evening.The Steelheads trailed, 5-4, with less than 90 seconds to play when Tyler Gron got a piece of an Etienne Boutet shot from the center point to tie the game at five goals apiece, forcing overtime.In the extra session, Idaho went on the power play early and struck quickly. William Rapuzzi centered the puck from the left corner to Robinson, who one-timed the pass past the Utah goaltender to end the game. Rapuzzi had three assists in the contest.The two teams travel up to Boise next for Idaho's annual "Season-Ticket Holder Only" game Saturday night at CenturyLink Arena. Game time is 7 PM.COORS OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE GAME: Justin Mercier (3G/1A)Group outings at a Steelheads game are a great way to gather friends, colleagues or co-workers for a fun night out in downtown Boise. Ticket prices are discounted and you can get a Pepsi, Double-R Ranch hot dog and bag of Tim's Cascade chips with each ticket. Contact the Steelheads' front office at 208-383-0080 for more information.