CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Rookie goaltender Daren Machesney recorded his first professional victory and shutout making 23 saves and rookie forward Matt Stefanishion scored the lone goal to snap the South Carolina Stingrays four-game winless skid with a 1-0 victory over the Charlotte Checkers at the Charlotte Bobcats Arena.

“I loved our effort tonight,” South Carolina coach Jason Fitzsimmons said. “We had a closed door meeting after Saturday’s game and the guys bought into it. Machesney was phenomenal in net and Stefanishion was key in the win as well. This was a nice victory for us on the road.”

The teams skated to a scoreless first period, with the Checkers outshooting the Stingrays 13-4 with South Carolina’s Machesney, who was appearing in his third professional game, and Charlotte netminder Chris Holt keeping the puck out of the net.

South Carolina (8-6-1, 17 points) took the play to Charlotte in the second with a 14-3 shot advantage. Stingrays’ Stefanishion, who was playing in his second professional game, opened the score by netting his first pro goal in front of goaltender Chris Holt with Evan Schwabe and Donny Grover collecting assists.

Charlotte (8-4-0, 16 points) had an opportunity on the penalty kill in the third. Blake Bellefeuille was robbed by Machesney on a great chance in close.

South Carolina failed to convert on five power play chances, while Charlotte went 0-for-3. Stingrays outshot the Checkers 25-23.

The Stingrays return home for their next contest at 7:05 p.m. on Wednesday against the Texas Wildcatters at the North Charleston Coliseum for the Salvation Army Coat Drive Night. Fans are encouraged to bring a new or gently-worn coat for donation to the Salvation Army.

Join Mike Kelly, “Voice of the Stingrays” for live play-by-play action on Real 1340 and online at www.stingrayshockey.com beginning at 6:50 p.m. with the Benito’s Pregame Show. Watch the game live on the web telecast for $6 each at www.stingrayshockey.com, courtesy of B2 Networks.

Don’t miss the fast-paced, action-packed, family affordable fun! Full season and partial season ticket packages are available by calling (843) 744-2248.

Individual tickets can be purchased at the North Charleston Coliseum box office, by calling Ticketmaster at (843) 554-6060 and online at www.ticketmaster.com.

Discounted groups tickets, birthday packages, Kids Club information and fundraiser opportunities are available by calling (843) 744-2248 or by visiting online at www.stingrayshockey.com. Stingrays Hockey – A Whole Lot Cooler!