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NORFOLK, Virginia — The magic number for the Norfolk Admirals is six. A six game win streak and six points back from the North division lead. Division leading Adirondack fell in overtime to Trois-Rivières 5-4 on Wednesday, helping the Admirals close the gap. 

The Admirals kept its scoring frenzy going Wednesday, defeating the Reading Royals 8-5 on the road.

Oskari Salminen started for the Admirals and delivered another impressive performance, making 21 saves on 26 shots faced.

In the first period, Gehrett Sargis scored the lone goal for the Admirals, giving them a 1-0 lead. Despite a strong start from the Royals, the Admirals’ improved forecheck led to momentum swings. Norfolk outshot Reading 10-8, maintaining their 1-0 lead at the intermission.

During the second period, Jake Smith equalized for Reading, but Norfolk regained the lead with goals from Kamerin Nault and Sean Montgomery. Brandon Osmundson’s assist contributed to the Admirals’ 3-2 lead entering the final period.

Norfolk dominated the third period, scoring five goals. Despite two quick goals from Reading, Norfolk responded with goals from Denis Smirnov, Danny Katic, and Keaton Jameson. Sargis added another goal, securing an 8-5 victory for the Admirals.

With the win, Norfolk improved to 33-19-3-1, maintaining their second-place position in the ECHL North Division with 70 points.

Norfolk returns to the Scopeon Saturday for another shot at the Reading Royals. Puck drops at 6:05 p.m.