[truebluefan]

Press Releases for both days.

Monarchs Report

LAST WEEK'S HIGHLIGHTS
At Lowell (12/20): Defensemen Brendan Buckley and Eric Werner scored their first goals of the season in the Manchester Monarchs 3-2 win over the Lowell Devils at the Tsongas Arena on Wednesday night. Left wing Matt Moulson also scored for the Monarchs. Center Justin Papineau tallied twice for the Devils. Monarchs goaltender Jason LaBarbera earned his 14th win of the season stopping 25 shots. Devils netminder Frank Doyle took the loss with 22 saves. Manchester went 2-for-7 on the power play. Lowell was 1-for-4 with the man advantage.

At Worcester (12/22): Right wing Graham Mink collected five assists and left wing Mathieu Darche scored a hat trick in the Worcester Sharks 6-4 drowning of the Manchester Monarchs at the DCU Center on Friday night. Monarchs right wings Tim Jackman and Mike Hoffman tallied for Manchester and right wing John Zeiler scored twice. Defenseman Brennan Evans, right wing Riley Armstrong and center Mike Iggulden added goals to Darche's hat trick for Worcester. Monarchs goaltender Jason LaBarbera made 27 saves through two periods of work before Yutaka Fukufuji replaced him and made nine saves in the third period. Sharks netminder Thomas Greiss stopped 22 shots for the win. Manchester went 2-for-3 on the power play. Worcester was 3-for-6 with the man advantage.

At Bridgeport (12/23): Center Frans Nielson scored with seven seconds remaining in overtime to lift the Bridgeport Sound Tigers over the Manchester Monarchs, 2-1, at the Arena at Harbor Yard on Saturday night. Center Patrick O'Sullivan scored an unassisted goal for Manchester. Center Jeremy Colliton collected his eighth tally of the season for Bridgeport. Monarchs goaltender Jason LaBarbera took the loss with 25 saves. Sound Tigers netminder Billy Thompson earned the win stopping 29 shots. Manchester went 0-for-4 on the power play. Bridgeport was 1-for-5 with the man advantage.

MONARCHS NEWS & NOTES

The Monarchs (15-10-6-1) are in second place in the Atlantic Division with 37 points.

Manchester has a home record of 9-4-4-0 and a road record of 6-6-2-1.

The Monarchs power play is ranked fourth in the AHL after 32 games with a 20.8-percent man advantage scoring percentage. Manchester has scored 36 goals on 173 opportunities so far this season with the man advantage

Manchester's penalty kill is ranked 23rd in the league after letting in 37 goals on 173 situations when the team has been down a man for a 78.6 percentage.

The Monarchs are currently on a four-game win streak at home, winning four games at the Verizon Wireless Arena since December 3.

Manchester is also unbeaten in regulation on home ice in their last 10 games with a record of 7-0-3-0.

Left wing Noah Clarke leads the Monarchs in scoring with 24 points (10-14=24).

Clarke is tied with center Michael Cammalleri (71) on the all-time goals scored category for the Monarchs with 71 apiece. The 5-foot-9, 192-pound native of LaVerne, California, has 71 goals in 231 Monarchs games from 2002-2006. Clarke has not scored a goal in the last 13 games.

Clarke is in first place on the Monarchs all-time list with 23 power play goals.

Center Patrick O'Sullivan (11-9=20) leads the Monarchs in goals scored with 11.

O'Sullivan is also in second place in scoring for the Monarchs.

Defenseman T.J. Kemp leads Manchester's blueliners with 19 points (2-17=19) and is ranked second on the Monarchs squad in scoring.

Kemp is also ranked seventh among AHL defensemen with 19 points.

Rookie Kemp also leads the Monarchs in assists with 17.

Left wing Matt Moulson (8-10=18) is ranked fourth on the Monarchs roster with 18 points.

Defenseman Peter Harrold (2-15=17) is second on Manchester's squad among defensemen and fifth overall with 17 points.

Defensemen Brendan Buckley and Eric Werner scored their first goals of the season in the Monarchs 3-2 win over the Lowell Devils on Wednesday night. Defenseman Doug Nolan is the lone Monarchs player without a goal this season.

Goaltender Jason LaBarbera ranks second in the league among minutes played with 1,634 minutes in 28 games.

LaBarbera is ranked first in the AHL in the saves category with 822 on the season.

LaBarbera is second in the league with a save-percentage of .925 and he is ninth among goaltenders with a goals-against-average of 2.46.

LaBarbera has played in 213 AHL games with the Monarchs and Wolf Pack. He has a record of 106-67-20, a goals-against-average of 2.18 and a save-percentage of .925 in 11,815 minutes of work between the pipes and 5,316 saves in the AHL.

TRANSACTIONS
12-21-06 The Manchester Monarchs (AHL) assigned goaltender Ryan Munce to the Reading Royals (ECHL).
12-19-06 The Manchester Monarchs (AHL) recalled goaltender Yutaka Fukufuji from the Long Beach Ice Dogs (ECHL).

INJURIES
No players are currently injured.

PROMOTIONS
12-31-06 - New Year's Eve Celebration - New Year's Eve will be celebrated Monarchs-style as we welcome 2007 with the largest post-game fireworks show in New Hampshire.

 

[truebluefan]

Sound Tigers News

The Bridgeport Sound Tigers went 1-2 this past week, including a 2-1 overtime win over the Manchester Monarchs on Saturday. The Sound Tigers fell 6-2 at Norfolk on Wednesday and 6-1 at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton on Friday.

The week ahead: After playing the Hershey Bears the day after Christmas, the Sound Tigers host the rival Hartford Wolf Pack Friday, Dec. 29. at 7:30 p.m. The Sound Tigers visit Springfield on Saturday and host Albany on Sunday, New Year's Eve, at 3 p.m.

In the standings: The Sound Tigers have a record of 13-12-1-3 and are in fifth place in the East Division, two points behind fourth-place Albany.

Dramatic win: Frans Nielsen won Saturday's game against Manchester, on the power play, with just 6.5 seconds remaining in OT. The goal came moments after Steve Regier hit the post. Regier and Blake Comeau assisted the goal. Regier and Comeau both had two assists in the win.

Hot hand: Nielsen extended his goal-scoring streak to three games with Saturday's tally.

Still making a killing: The Sound Tigers are tops in the league in penalty killing (90 percent). The penalty kill has been tested by some of the league's best during the past couple of weeks. Including the game against Hershey on Tuesday, each of Bridgeport's last six contests have been against teams with power plays among the top six in the league.

Busy holiday season: The Sound Tigers are in the midst of six games in 10 days, including four on home ice.

Polar Bears: The Connecticut Polar Bears were to hold Opening Ceremonies for the 22nd Annual Polar Bears Girls' Ice Hockey Tournament, the largest girls' tourney in the world, with the Sound Tigers prior to Tuesday's game. Notable special guest Angela Ruggiero, 1998 U.S. Olympic Gold Medalist, was scheduled to make an appearance. She was the first woman non-goalie to play professional men's hockey in North America, suiting up for the Tulsa Oilers alongside her brother, Bill, and also earning a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame as the first brother-sister duo to play pro hockey together. Some 250 teams will compete in the annual tournament, which will feature teams from throughout North America.

Please sign here: Sound Tiger players stick around to sign shirts, photos and other memorabilia in the main concourse behind Section 103 after every home game.

Schedule and ticket information

For schedule and ticket information, including group discount opportunities, visit soundtigers.com or call 334-4625.

View or listen to the game

Hear Phil Giubileo call all the play-by-play by visiting soundtigers.com clicking on the listen to the game link. Fans may also watch the fast-paced action on the b2 Networks by visiting soundtigers.com and clicking on the b2 link on the far right side of the main Web page.

 

[truebluefan]

Rampage Week 12 Report

THIS WEEK'S GAMES

Tuesday, Dec. 26 vs. Houston Aeros

@ Toyota Center-7:05 p.m.

The Rampage visit the Houston Aeros for the third time ... This is the sixth game of the season series and the first of three times in four days ... The Rampage are 4-20-1-1 at the Toyota Center and own a 15-30-6-2 record lifetime ... There are six more games remaining in the series.

Wednesday, Dec. 27 vs. Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights

@ AT&T Center-7:00 p.m.

After canceling their game last Friday due to inclement weather, this will be the fourth match-up against the Knights this season ... The Knights are ranked second in the West Division with 38 points ... The Rampage own a 5-8-0-0 lifetime record against the Knights with a 3-4-0-0 record at home.

Friday & Saturday, Dec. 29 & 30 vs. Houston Aeros

@ AT&T Center & Toyota Center-7:00 & 7:35 p.m.

The Rampage end 2006 with a home-and-home series against Houston ... The Aeros are ranked sixth in the division with 27 points, six more than the Rampage ...Josh Olson skated with the Rampage for three seasons (2002-05) and Joey Tetarenko skated with the Rampage during the 2002-03 campaign.

All games can be viewed through B2 Networks' live video web cast for $6 to anyone with a high-speed internet connection, through a link at sarampage.com.

SHOTS FROM THE POINT

MILESTONES IN SIGHT: Don MacLean is only one goal shy of his 200th career AHL goal while Pascal Rheaume's next game will be his 800th Professional. Matthew Spiller's next game will also be his 200th AHL.

PERFECT NO MORE: The Rampage's perfect post-regulation record was snapped by the Chicago Wolves with a 2-1 overtime outcome Saturday night at Allstate Arena. Prior to the game, the Rampage were 5-0 when playing 60-plus minutes.

FINAL FLURRY: Last Thursday night, the Rampage tallied three goals in the final period ... Within the last two minutes of play they recorded two goals but the Chicago Wolves were there to answer both when Brett Sterling posted the game-winner with 10 seconds left in regulation.

ICE CHIPS

- 12 DAYS OF GIVING: Last Friday, the Rampage completed their "12-Days of Giving" initiative where the team, wives and staff provided a charitable act or donation and spread holiday cheer for 12 consecutive days leading up to Christmas Day (Dec. 11-22). They are the first AHL team to initiate such a community outreach program for the holiday season.

- RAMPAGE RANKS: Despite a slow start for the team, the Rampage have some individual players that stand out in the league. Jakub Koreis' six-game assist streak ranks sixth in the league while Yanick Lehoux's nine-game scoring streak ranks ninth. Matthew Spiller is in the top 10 for penalty minutes while Josh Tordjman sits at the 11th spot in shootouts among goalies.

UPCOMING PROMOTIONS

- GUYS NIGHT OUT-Dec. 26: Enjoy a night out with the guys this Friday at the Rampage game and have a chance to win free haircuts for a year courtesy of Sportsclips, H-E-B and Best Buy gift cards, a Rampage suite for 22 people, and much more. Look online at sarampage.com and print off a coupon good for a ticket and drink for only $12.

Ticket Info: Tickets start at just $9.50. To order tickets by phone call 210.444.5554 or go on-line at sarampage.com or ticketmaster.com.

 

[truebluefan]

Lowell Splits the Week

Rewind:

Wednesday, Monarchs 3 vs. DEVILS 2

Manchester overcame an early deficit to take a 3-2 victory at the Tsongas Arena on Wednesday night. Justin Papineau scored both goals for the Devils, including the first of the game just 1:54 into the contest. His second of the game tied the score at 2-2 at 9:02 of the third, but just over two minutes later Manchester pushed back in front for good.

Saturday, Devils 2 vs. SHARKS 1, SO

Frank Doyle stopped 34 shots in regulation and was a perfect five-for-five in the shootout, helping lead the Devils to a 2-1 win in Worcester on Saturday night. Grant Marshall scored for the Devils in regulation and Stephen Gionta scored the only goal in the shootout - in the fifth and final round. Lowell improved to 2-0 in Worcester and 3-1-0-0 overall against the Sharks.

In the standings

The Devils stand at 16-13-2-1 on the season, and their 35 points in the standings is good for third place in the Atlantic Division. They sit just three points behind the division leading Portland Pirates and two points behind the second place Manchester Monarchs. The Devils have a two point lead over the Providence Bruins and Springfield Falcons, who sit tied for fourth place.

Coming Up

The Devils will return home on Wednesday, December 27th to host the Manchester Monarchs at 7:05 p.m. for Team Action Poster night. The first 2,500 fans will get a free poster, courtesy of Trinity Emergency Medical Service. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Devils office at (978) 458-PUCK or log on to The Official Website of the Lowell Devils.

The Devils then head out on the road for the first two of a four-game road trip, playing the Norfolk Admirals at 7:15 p.m. on Friday night and the Philadelphia Phantoms at 7:05 p.m. on Saturday. All Devils games, home and away, can be heard live on WCAP 980 AM, or online through B2 Networks at The Official Website of the Lowell Devils, with the Voice of the Devils, Ryan Johnston.

Holiday Hat Tricks still available

It's never too late to fulfill the needs of the hockey fan in your life with the gift of Lowell Devils hockey. The Devils are offering the Holiday Hat Trick - get a ticket to three games during the second half of the season and a Devils hat "" for just $49.

Around the Horns

RW Dan LaCouture was returned on loan from the New Jersey Devils after their game Saturday night, and D Alex Brooks was recalled by New Jersey today.

Justin Papineau's two goals on Wednesday lifted him into a tie for the team lead in goals with 12 this season. Chris Minard also has 12 goals.

Minard and Papineau are the only Devils to have more than one multi-goal game this season. Papineau's two-goal effort on Wednesday marked the fifth consecutive game in which a Devils player had at least two goals.

Frank Doyle was perfect in the shootout in Worcester on Saturday, stopping all five Sharks shooters. Doyle, who ranks fifth in the AHL in minutes played and is tied for third with two shootout wins, has a .692 shootout save percentage.

The only team on the Devils schedule they have yet to play is Philadelphia, and they travel to Philly this weekend. Lowell was 1-1 against them in preseason action.

Leaders for Lowell:

Goals Minard, Papineau (12)

Assists Papineau (17)

Points Papineau (29)

PIM Voros (69)

Plus/Minus Papineau (+7)

Wins Doyle (10)

G.A.A. Doyle (2.53)

Save % Doyle (.915)

Last Week:

Wed 12/20 Manchester Monarchs 3 vs. DEVILS 2

Sat 12/23 Devils 2 @ WORCESTER SHARKS 1, SO

This Week:

Wed 12/27 Manchester Monarchs @ DEVILS, 7:05 p.m., Tsongas Arena

Fri 12/29 Devils @ NORFOLK ADMIRALS, 7:15 p.m.

Sat 12/30 Devils @ PHILADELPHIA PHANTOMS, 7:05 p.m.

 

[truebluefan]

Bears' Laing named CCM Vector/AHL Player of the Week 12/26/06 - American Hockey Leag

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. ... The American Hockey League announced today that Hershey Bears left wing Quintin Laing has been named the CCM Vector/AHL Player of the Week for the period ending December 24, 2006.

In three games last week, Laing scored three goals, recorded three assists and posted a plus-4 rating in three games for the Bears.

On Wednesday, Hershey became the first team in AHL history to play 5,000 regular-season games, and Laing was the hero by recording his first career AHL hat trick, including the game-winning goal, in a 7-4 victory at Albany. On Friday, Laing had an assist in the Bears' 6-3 loss to Norfolk, and he recorded two more assists on Saturday to help Hershey get past Philadelphia, 4-1.

In recognition of his achievement, Laing will be presented with an etched crystal award prior to an upcoming Bears home game.

A native of Harris, Sask., Laing has totaled six goals and 11 assists for 17 points in 27 games with Hershey this season. The seventh-year pro signed with the Washington Capitals on July 18, 2006, after six seasons in the Chicago Blackhawks organizarion, mostly with the AHL's Norfolk Admirals. Laing has registered 53 goals and 93 assists for 146 points in 384 career AHL games.

Other nominees for CCM Vector/AHL Player of the Week include Albany defenseman Johnny Boychuk, Bridgeport forward Frans Nielsen, Chicago left wing Brett Sterling, Grand Rapids center Matt Hussey, Houston forward Roman Voloshenko, Lowell center Justin Papineau, Milwaukee center Rich Peverley, Norfolk forward Brandon Bochenski, Peoria left wing Peter Sejna, Philadelphia defenseman Nolan Baumgartner, Portland right wing Pierre Parenteau, San Antonio forward Tyler Redenbach, Toronto center Kris Newbury, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton forward Tyler Kennedy and Worcester left wing Mathieu Darche.

 

[truebluefan]

Rochester hosts Hamilton tonight

Tonight, the Rochester Americans (21-7-1-0, 43 points) will host their North Division rivals, the Hamilton Bulldogs (19-10-1-1, 40 points), at The Blue Cross Arena. The game is a showdown between the top two teams in the division. The 7:05 p.m. contest will be broadcast live on Hot Talk 1280-AM WHTK, whtk.com and B2 Networks.

Head-to-Head: Tonight's game will be the fourth between the two teams this season and their third meeting in the last three weeks. In their last meeting on Friday, December 15th, the Amerks gave up a season-high eight goals to the Bulldogs en route to an 8-4 loss. Andrei Kostitsyn led Hamilton's offense with two goals and three assists. Kostitsyn has done significant damage against the Amerks, tallying three goals and six assists in three games against Rochester this season. Drew Stafford has led the Amerks against Hamilton, posting five points (3+2) and a plus-four rating in two games against the Bulldogs this season. The Amerks are 1-2-0 against Hamilton during their 2006-07 campaign.

Amerk Notes: The Amerks enter tonight's contest following a 6-5 comeback-win against the Binghamton Senators on Saturday, December 23rd. Andrej Sekera (2+1) and Mike Funk (1+0) netted their first professional markers and the Amerks netted four straight power-play goals to cap their 21st win of the season. Clarke MacArthur contributed an assist in the game to extend his point-scoring streak to seven games (6+5). MacArthur leads the Amerks and is eighth in the league with 36 points (12+24). Drew Stafford is third among league rookies with a plus-13 rating. Brandon Smith's 23 points (6+17) is third among league defensemen. The Amerks' have jump-started their power play, as they are an impressive 12-for-29 (41.3%) with the man-advantage in their last five games. Rochester is 17.8% overall on the power play this season, good enough for 11th in the AHL.

Player Moves: Today, the Florida Panthers reassigned defenseman Martin Tuma from the Florida Everblades (ECHL) to the Amerks. Tuma has played in 19 games with the Everblades and has three assists and 48 penalty minutes. Tuma spent 12 games with the Amerks last season. Forward Janis Sprukts was reassigned to Rochester on December 23rd, but was recalled earlier today by the Panthers.

Hamilton Notes: The Bulldogs, who trail the Amerks by three points in the North Division standings, have not lost in regulation in their last six contests (5-0-1-0) and are 7-2-1-0 in their last 10. The Bulldogs' offense is led by right winger Duncan Milroy who has 12 goals and 17 assists in 29 games. Goaltender Jaroslav Halak leads the AHL with a stifling 1.48 GAA, .950 SV% and five shutouts. The Hamilton defense leads the league in team GAA, allowing an average of just 2.39 goals per game.

Free pregame Open Skate: The Amerks are hosting a free open skate at The Blue Cross Arena from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Bring your game ticket and your skates to enjoy two hours of free ice skating entertainment.

Next Game: The Amerks will be in action again on Friday, December 29th when they take on the Binghamton Senators at The Blue Cross Arena. At the game, fans will be able to exchange an unwanted holiday gift for a $15.00 Amerks ticket. Only new, unwrapped gifts will be accepted. The game is also a College Student Discount Night. College students with a student ID will receive a ticket to the game for $8.00. The 7:35 p.m. contest will be broadcast live on Hot Talk 1280-AM WHTK, whtk.com and B2 Networks. The game will also be televised live on TWSN.

 

[truebluefan]

Oilers send Roy back to Bulldogs and recall Hejda

EDMONTON, AB - The Edmonton Oilers announced today that the club has reassigned defenceman Mathieu Roy to the Hamilton Bulldogs of the American Hockey league and recalled defenceman Jan Hejda.

Roy, 23, did not see any playing time with the Oilers since being recalled from Hamilton on December 13th. The native of St-Georges, Quebec, was a healthy scratch in five games between December 14th and 23rd. In 25 games with Hamilton this season, Roy has accumulated 16 points (6-10-16) and 19 penalty minutes with a plus-16 rating. At the time of his recall, Roy led all Bulldogs' defencemen in scoring and was tied for fourth in the AHL with a plus-16 rating.

Roy made his NHL debut with Edmonton on February 12th, 2006 versus the St. Louis Blues and was held scoreless. The 6-foot-2, 220-pound blueliner was drafted by the Oilers in the 7th round, 215th overall, in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.

Hejda, 28, was assigned to Hamilton on December 13th and registered three assists with 21 penalty minutes and a plus-6 rating in five games with the Bulldogs. The 6-foot-3, 209-pound defenceman has appeared in eight games this season with Edmonton, posting one assist and four penalty minutes. Hejda made his NHL debut with the Oilers versus the Dallas Stars on November 3rd and picked up his first-career point, an assist, against the Columbus Blue Jackets on November 10th.

A native of Prague, Czech Republic, Hejda was obtained from the Buffalo Sabres on July 10th in exchange for the Oilers' 7th round pick in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. Buffalo originally drafted Hejda in the 4th round, 106th overall, in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.

In operation since 1936, the American Hockey League is the top development league for all 30 National Hockey League teams. Over 80 percent of NHL players are AHL graduates, and more than 350 AHL players were recalled to the NHL during the 2005-2006 season alone.

The Bulldogs return to action at 7:05 p.m. tonight (Friday, December 26th) when they invade Rochester to battle the Americans at Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester War Memorial. Fans can listen to the game on the flagship station of the Hamilton Bulldogs Hockey Network, 820 CHAM "The Legend," beginning with the Park's Furniture Pre-Game Show at 6:45 p.m. Fans can also listen or watch at Hamilton Bulldogs :: Bulldogs by clicking on the 'B2 Networks' or '820 CHAM' icon on the 'Dogs website.

The 'Dogs next home game is on Wednesday, December 27th at Copps Coliseum against the Manitoba Moose at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for all 'Dogs home games (except home game #32) are available at the Copps Coliseum Box Office, any Ticketmaster outlet, online at Official Ticketmaster site. Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more, or through charge-by-phone at 905-527-7666.

 

[truebluefan]

Admirals Keep Pace Near Top of Tight East Division Race

NORFOLK, VA - The Norfolk Admirals won two of three division games last week to keep pace in the tight East Division race. On Wednesday night at Scope, Troy Brouwer netted his first pro hat trick to lead the Admirals past the Bridgeport Sound Tigers 6-2. On Friday, Martin St. Pierre had two goals and Brandon Bochenski set a new franchise-record scoring streak with points in his twelfth straight game to help Norfolk beat the Hershey Bears 6-3 at Scope. On Saturday night, Bochenski scored the Admirals' lone goal as the Penguins defeated Norfolk 4-1 in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.

The Admirals return to Scope on Wednesday night to face the Providence Bruins and on Friday night to battle with the Lowell Devils. On Saturday, Norfolk travels to Hershey to face the Bears in the first of three meetings between the rivals in seven days.

STANDINGS

At 21-7-4-1 (47 pts), Norfolk is tied for second place in the East Division with Hershey (20-4-3-4, 47 pts). Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (22-4-2-2, 48 pts) has a one-point lead over the Admirals and Bears. Albany (15-13-2-0, 32 pts) is fourth, Bridgeport (13-12-1-3, 30 pts) is fifth, Philadelphia (11-17-1-0, 23 pts) is sixth and Binghamton (9-19-1-2, 21 pts) is seventh.

THE WEEK AHEAD

Wednesday, Dec. 27...Norfolk vs. Providence Bruins (Boston Bruins)...7:15 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 29...Norfolk vs. Lowell Devils (New Jersey Devils)...7:15 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 30...Norfolk at Hershey Bears (Washington Capitals)...7:00 p.m.

NORFOLK LEADERS Goals: Brandon Bochenski (22) Assists: Martin St. Pierre (32) Points: Brandon Bochenski (46) Games Played: Colin Fraser, Jordan Hendry (33) PP goals: Brandon Bochenski (11) SH goals: Craig MacDonald (3) +/- Rating: Bryan Bickell (+14) PIM: Colin Fraser (87) GAA: Corey Crawford (2.38) Spct: Corey Crawford (.923) Wins: Corey Crawford (17) Losses: Corey Crawford (7) GPI: Corey Crawford (25) Minutes: Corey Crawford (1459)

PROVIDENCE LEADERS Goals: Kris Versteeg (13) Assists: David Krejci (18) Points: Kris Versteeg (27) Games Played: Several (30) PP goals: Pascal Pelletier (6) SH goals: Jonathan Sigalet, Jeremy Reich (1) +/- Rating: Pascal Pelletier (+9) PIM: Jeremy Reich (73) GAA: Jordan Sigalet (3.01) Spct: Brian Finley (.894) Wins: Brian Finley (6) Losses: Philippe Sauve (5) GPI: Sigalet, Finley, Sauve (9) Minutes: Brian Finley (550)

LOWELL LEADERS Goals: Justin Papineau, Chris Minard (12) Assists: Justin Papineau (17) Points: Justin Papineau (29) Games Played: Mark Fraser, Andy Greene (32) PP goals: Nicklas Bergfors (8) SH goals: Rod Pelley (1) +/- Rating: Justin Papineau (+7) PIM: Aaron Voros (69) GAA: Frank Doyle (2.53) Spct: Frank Doyle (.915) Wins: Frank Doyle (10) Losses: Frank Doyle (11) GPI: Frank Doyle (23) Minutes: Frank Doyle (1326)

HERSHEY LEADERS Goals: Alexandre Giroux (21) Assists: Lawrence Nycholat (25) Points: Alexandre Giroux (32) Games Played: Chris Bourque (30) PP goals: Giroux, Fleischmann (7) SH goals: Alexandre Giroux (4) +/- Rating: Nycholat, Steckel (+12) PIM: Louis Robitaille (108) GAA: Frederic Cassivi (2.63) Spct: Frederic Cassivi (.913) Wins: Frederic Cassivi (12) Losses: Frederic Cassivi (5) GPI: Frederic Cassivi (23) Minutes: Frederic Cassivi (1322)

TEAM NOTEBOOK

- Brandon Bochenski has established a new franchise-record scoring streak with points in his last 13 Admirals games since November 12 at Manchester. In that span, he has 12 goals and 18 assists for 30 points. He broke the previous 11-game scoring streak record that was established by Martin St. Pierre earlier this season.

- Troy Brouwer netted his first pro hat trick on Wednesday vs. Bridgeport. He then earned his first NHL call-up to the Chicago Blackhawks, playing in his first NHL game on Saturday at Colorado.

- St. Pierre is on a seven-game point streak (6g, 10a)

- Dustin Byfuglien is on a five-game point streak (2g, 4a)

- The Admirals' penalty kill has been perfect in its last four games and is 29-30 (96.7%) in its last five games.

TRANSACTIONS

- On Friday night, the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) recalled RW Troy Brouwer on loan from the Admirals.

ON THE RADIO/INTERNET

All games are broadcast on 670-AM WPMH, 1010-AM WRJR, 1270-AM WTJZ and 1450-AM WBVA. The games are also cybercast at SportsJuice.com. Go to SportsJuice.Com - The next generation of WebCasting, or click on the link at Norfolk Admirals Official Website. Pre-game broadcasts begin 15 minutes prior to game starting time.

Games are also viewable through the Internet on a pay-per-view basis through B2 Networks for anyone with a high-speed cable modem, T1 or DSL broadband connection and Windows Media Player 9 or higher. Visit Norfolk Admirals Official Website and click the B2 Networks banner to view all Admirals' home and away games.

The Admirals Hour radio show will air tonight, December 26, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. on 670-AM WPMH, 1010-AM WRJR, 1270-AM WTJZ, 1450-AM and 1310-AM ESPN Radio. "The Voice of the Admirals" Pete Michaud will be joined by Admirals Vice President Mark Bernard in the studio to take fans' calls. If you have questions for Pete or Mark, you may call in during the radio show or email them ahead of time to [email protected]. If you email your questions, please be sure to include your first name and your city and state.

TICKET INFORMATION

Individual tickets for all Admirals' home games are available at the Scope Box Office, all TicketMaster outlets, charge-by-phone at (757) 671-8100 and online at Official Ticketmaster site. Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more. Season tickets, 10-Packs and group tickets are available through the Admirals' office. For more information, visit the club's website at norfolkadmirals.com or call the Admirals at (757) 640-1212.

 

[truebluefan]

Rampage sign Ferraro, Paddock to PTO

Rampage sign Ferraro, Paddock to PTO
12/26/06 - American Hockey League (AHL) San Antonio Rampage

San Antonio Rampage
SAN ANTONIO (December 26, 2006) - The San Antonio Rampage announced today that they have signed center Chris Ferraro and right wing Cam Paddock to Professional Tryout Offers.

Both players were called up from the Rampage's ECHL affiliate, the Phoenix RoadRunners and will join the Rampage tonight for their game against the Houston Aeros at the Toyota Center at 7 p.m.

Ferraro, 33, has scored three points (two goals, assist), in three games with the RoadRunners this season since signing with Phoenix on Dec. 18. The 12-year veteran began the year with the Hartford of the American Hockey League, where he appeared in one game with Wolf Pack.

Selected by the New York Rangers in the fourth round at the 1992 NHL Entry Draft along with his identical twin brother Peter, Ferraro has appeared in 74 NHL games over the course of his career with the Rangers, Pittsburgh, Edmonton, New York Islanders and Washington tallying seven goals, nine assists, and 57 penalty minutes.

The Port Jefferson, New York native won the AHL's 2002-03 Fred T. Hunt Memorial Award for sportsmanship, determination and dedication to hockey. In his AHL career, Ferraro has amassed 437 points (176 goals, 261 assists) and 901 penalty minutes in 458 games with Albany, Binghamton, Hamilton, Hartford, Portland, Providence, Springfield and Syracuse.

Paddock, 23, has recorded 19 points (five goals, 14 assists) in 29 games with the RoadRunners. The North Vancouver, British Columbia native who was selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the fifth round (137th overall) in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft has appeared in 21 AHL games with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton over a three-year span.

 

[truebluefan]

Hamilton Bulldogs weekly

The Hamilton Bulldogs (19-10-1-1) will play five games in six nights this week. First Hamilton travels to Rochester on Tuesday, December 26th for a tilt with the Americans (21-7-1-0) at 7:05 p.m. at Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester War Memorial. The Bulldogs then take on the Toronto Marlies (13-15-2-2) at 7:30 p.m. at Copps Coliseum on Friday, December 29th. The 'Dogs will finish off their weekly schedule with two games on the weekend against the Grand Rapids Griffins at Van Andel Arena on Saturday, December 30th at 7:00 p.m. and versus the Peoria Rivermen at 6:00 p.m. on New Years Eve (Sunday, December 31st).

Hamilton posted a 2-0-1-0 record in three games last week. The Bulldogs opened the week with two games in Manitoba against the Moose, posting a 2-1 overtime loss on Wednesday (Dec. 20) and a 4-3 shootout win on Thursday (Dec 21). The Bulldogs then played their third game in as many nights, defeating the Albany River Rats 2-1 at Copps Coliseum on Friday (Dec. 22). The 'Dogs are currently in second place in the North Division Standings with 40 points in 31 games this season.

WEEK IN REVIEW
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20th - HAMILTON BULLDOGS 1 @ MANITOBA MOOSE 2
Bulldogs Goals: Kyle Chipchura
Moose Goals: Prestin Ryan, Brandon Reid
Goaltending: Hamilton - Jaroslav Halak (L - 29 shots, 27 saves) / Manitoba - Wade Flaherty (W - 28 shots, 27 saves)
Power Play: Hamilton 0-3 / Manitoba 1-7

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21st - HAMILTON BULLDOGS 4 @ MANITOBA MOOSE 3 (SO)
Bulldogs Goals: Corey Locke, Andrei Kostitsyn, Mikhail Grabovski
Moose Goals: Mike Keane, Shaun Heshka, Brandon Reid
Goaltending: Hamilton - Yann Danis (W - 33 shots, 30 saves) / Manitoba - Wade Flaherty (L - 29 shots, 26 saves)
Power Play: Hamilton 0-4 / Manitoba 1-6

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22nd - ALBANY RIVER RATS 1 @ HAMILTON BULLDOGS 2
Bulldogs Goals: Matt D'Agostini, Andre Benoit
River Rats Goals: Ben Guite
Goaltending: Hamilton - Jaroslav Halak (W - 32 shots, 31 saves), / Albany - Justin Peters (L - 23 shots, 21 saves)
Power Play: Hamilton 0-5 / Albany 0-6
River Rats @ Bulldogs Gallery

AHL Standings

BULLDOGS NOTES
- RW Andrei Kostitsyn has 13 points (5-8-13) in his last ten games and is currently second on the Bulldogs in scoring with 27 points (10-17-27), 23 penalty minutes and a plus-12 rating in 26 games this season
- C Maxim Lapierre was recalled by Montreal on December 11th and appeared in four games with the Canadiens, posting four points (3-1-4) and a plus-5 rating before being reassigned on December 20th and picking up an assist on December 22nd in a 2-1 win over Albany
- RW Jonathan Ferland played in his 200th career AHL game on December 20th against the Manitoba Moose
- D Dan Jancevski and D Mathieu Roy are tied for fourth in the AHL with a rating of plus-16
- The Bulldogs penalty killing is ranked fourth in the AHL after successfully killing off 157 of 181 of their opponents power play attempts for a percentage of 86.7 in 31 games so far this season

PLAYER TRANSACTIONS
Wednesday, December 20th, 2006
- C Maxim Lapierre was reassigned by Montreal (NHL) to Hamilton (AHL)

Tuesday, December 26th, 2006
- D Mathieu Roy was reassigned by Edmonton (NHL) to Hamilton (AHL) and D Jan Hejda was recalled by Edmonton (NHL) from Hamilton (AHL)

UPCOMING GAMES
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 26th - HAMILTON BULLDOGS @ ROCHESTER AMERICANS - 7:05 P.M - BLUE CROSS ARENA AT THE ROCHESTER WAR MEMORIAL
- Record vs. Amerks this season: 2-1-0-0
- All-time record vs. Amerks: 41-50-7-0-1
- Rochester's leading scorer: Clarke MacArthur currently leads Rochester in scoring with 36 points (12-24-36) in 28 games this season

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27th - MANITOBA MOOSE @ HAMILTON BULLDOGS - 7:30 P.M - COPPS COLISEUM
- Record vs. Moose this season: 2-1-1-0
- All-time record vs. Moose: 31-13-1-2-1
- Manitoba's leading scorer: Brad Moran currently leads Manitoba in scoring with 36 points (13-23-36) in 30 games this season

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29th - TORONTO MARLIES @ HAMILTON BULLDOGS - 7:30 P.M - COPPS COLISEUM
- Record vs. Marlies this season: 3-2-0-0
- All-time record vs. Marlies: 8-8-0-1
- Toronto's leading scorer: Erik Westrum currently leads Toronto in scoring with 34 points (10-24-34) in 32 games this season

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30th - HAMILTON BULLDOGS @ GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS - 7:00 P.M - VAN ANDEL ARENA
- Record vs. Griffins this season: 1-0-0-0
- All-time record vs. Griffins: 10-10-1-2-0
- Grand Rapids' leading scorer: Kip Miller currently leads Grand Rapids in scoring with 32 points (11-21-32) in 32 games this season

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31st - HAMILTON BULLDOGS @ PEORIA RIVERMEN - 6:00 P.M - PEORIA CIVIC CENTER - CARVER ARENA
- Record vs. Rivermen this season: 0-1-0-0
- All-time record vs. Rivermen: 1-2-0-0
- Peoria's leading scorer: Peter Sejna currently leads Peoria in scoring with 24 points (8-16-24) in 27 games this season

TUNE IN TO EVERY GAME ON THE HAMILTON BULLDOGS HOCKEY NETWORK
Fans can listen to every 'Dogs game this season on the flagship station of the Hamilton Bulldogs Hockey Network, 820 CHAM "The Legend." Fans can also listen to or watch every home and away game online at Hamilton Bulldogs :: Bulldogs. To watch or listen online, click on the 'B2 Networks' or '820 CHAM' icon on the 'Dogs website. Ellery Award-winning broadcaster Derek Wills calls the play-by-play of all 80 regular season games, while Al Craig provides the colour commentary for all home games and select road games.

"B2 Power Play" packages are now available for purchase. They provide fans with a chance to watch every game of their favourite team, free access to the AHL Game of the Week and exclusive weekly highlights. And in addition to broadband viewing on personal computers, B2 Power Play will also be available on the new B2toGO network, allowing fans to watch American Hockey League games on cell phones and other wireless devices. A full season package costs $160 billed monthly at $20 per month or fans can pay for the season in full for $150. B2toGO, a service delivering live games and highlights to cell phones and hand-held Pads, are now available for purchase for a full season price of $56 over 8 instalments or $50 if paid in full. Fans who purchase "B2 Power Play" will be eligible to add "B2toGo" for only an additional $25.

TICKETS
Hamilton Bulldogs tickets are on sale now! Individual game tickets are available at Copps Coliseum Box Office (in-person sales only), all Ticketmaster outlets, online at ticketmaster.ca or at select Sports Obsession locations. For information on season or group tickets visit Hamilton Bulldogs :: Bulldogs, or call (905) 529-8500 or 1-866-DOGS-TIX.

BULLDOGS SCHEDULE THIS WEEK
Tuesday, December 26th - Hamilton Bulldogs at Rochester Americans - 7:05 pm - Blue Cross Arena at Rochester War Memorial
Wednesday, December 27th - Manitoba Moose at Hamilton Bulldogs - 7:30 pm - Copps Coliseum
Friday, December 29th - Toronto Marlies at Hamilton Bulldogs - 7:30 pm - Copps Coliseum
Saturday, December 30th - Hamilton Bulldogs at Grand Rapids Griffins - 7:00 pm - Van Andel Arena
Sunday, December 31st - Hamilton Bulldogs at Peoria Rivermen - 6:00 pm - Peoria Civic Center - Carver Arena

BULLDOGS MOLSON CUP - THREE STAR LEADERS
(1st Star - 5pts, 2nd Star - 3pts, 3rd Star - 1pt)
Player: Points:

1. Jaroslav Halak 34
2. Duncan Milroy 22
3. Mikhail Grabovski 15
T-4. Jonathan Ferland 11
T-4. Andrei Kostitsyn 11
6. Matt D'Agostini 10
T-7. Zack Stortini 8
T-7. Ajay Baines 8
T-7. Corey Locke 8
T-10. Kyle Chipchura 6
T-10. Maxim Lapierre 6
T-12. Yann Danis 5
T-12. Michael Lambert 5
T-12. Mathieu Roy 5
15. Jan Hejda 1

PEARSON-DUNN HARDEST WORKING BULLDOG OF THE GAME LEADERS
Player: Points:

1. Maxim Lapierre 80
2. Mikhail Grabovski 50
3. Kyle Chipchura 40
4. Andrei Kostitsyn 30
T-5. Matt D'Agostini 20
T-5. Jonathan Ferland 20
T-5. Dan Jancevski 20
T-8. Jaroslav Halak 10
T-8. Zack Stortini 10
T-8. Patrick Traverse 10
T-8. Mathieu Biron 10
T-8. Jean-Philippe Cote 10

 

[truebluefan]

Phantoms week in review

UPCOMING OPPONENTS

Tuesday, December 26 - Phantoms at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, 7:05: The Phantoms jump right back on the ice after a two-day Christmas break when they visit the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins (Pittsburgh Penguins) tonight at the Wachovia Arena at Casey Plaza. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton is part of a three-team logjam at the top of the American Hockey League standings with Hershey and Norfolk, all three of which happen to be in the East Division with the Phantoms. As the league resumes following the holiday hiatus, the Penguins are on top of the division and tied with the Chicago Wolves for first place in the league with 48 points, generated by record of 22-4-2-2. They're one point ahead of the Bears and the Admirals, who are deadlocked at 47 points. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton has gone nine games without a regulation loss, posting a 7-0-1-1 record in the span. Jonathan Filewich leads the way for the Penguins with 15 goals and 16 assists for 31 points in 30 games.

Wednesday, Dec. 27 - Phantoms at Hershey, 7:00: Philadelphia will make a rare hotel stay in Hershey, heading straight to Chocolatetown to face the Bears (Washington Capitals). Hershey's participation in the above-mentioned race has been fueled lately by a record of 7-1-1-1 in its last 10 games, a mark identical to that of Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Alexandre Giroux has 21 goals and 11 assists for 32 points in 28 games. Those 21 goals are fourth-most by an individual in the league this year.

Friday, Dec. 29 - Phantoms vs. Providence, 7:05: The Phantoms return home to host the Providence Bruins (Boston Bruins) at the Wachovia Spectrum on Cartoon Crazy Night, where kids can meet Clifford the Big Red Dog and several of their favorite cartoon characters. The P-Bruins start the week in fourth place in the Atlantic Division with a record of 15-12-1-2 for 33 points. Rookie Kris Versteeg leads the Bruins and is fifth among AHL newcomers in scoring with 13 goals and 14 assists for 27 points in 25 games.

Saturday, Dec. 30 - Phantoms vs. Lowell, 7:05: Philadelphia plays a rare Saturday night home contest this week when the Lowell Devils come to town for the Phantoms final game of 2006. Lowell is in its first season as the primary affiliate of the New Jersey Devils, after spending the last several years affiliated with the Carolina Hurricanes and Colorado Avalanche when the team was known as the Lowell Lock Monsters. The Devils sit in third place in the Atlantic Division at the start of this week, holding a record of 16-13-2-1 for 35 points. Lowell's leading scorer is Justin Papineau, who starts the week with 12 goals and 17 assists for 29 points in 28 games.

Tickets for all Phantoms regular season games are now available! As always, kids tickets for all Phantoms games are just $8.00. Purchase online at phantomshockey.com or to charge by phone, call 1-800-298-4200.

BIG DOGS AND BIG LEGENDS

The Phantoms close out 2006 with two great nights for you at the Wachovia Spectrum this weekend. On Friday, the Phantoms welcome Clifford the Big Red Dog to the game when the Providence Bruins come in at 7:05. Then on Sunday, the first 4,000 fans will receive a John Slaney figurine courtesy of Toyota. The figurine comes out on the one-year anniversary of Slaney's capture of the American Hockey League's scoring record for defensemen, which he accomplished on Dec. 30, 2005 with his 454th career point.

CHUCK YOUR PUCKS Phantoms Charities continues this Friday with its Chuck O' Puck promotion in the second intermission. The Phantoms Wives are sponsoring the event, which will happen at every Friday game over the rest of the season. Pucks are $2 apiece or three for $5, and fans can use their skill to toss those pucks on the ice in the second intermission. The puck closest to the target will win half of the monies raised on the evening, while the other half will go to Phantoms Charities.

BAUMGARTNER NOMINATED FOR PLAYER OF THE WEEK

The Phantoms nominated Nolan Baumgartner for CCM/Vector AHL Player of the Week honors this week. Baumgartner had a goal and an assist on Friday vs. Binghamton, and was plus-3 in earning the game's first star. He was scoreless and even on Saturday at Hershey.

CULLEN LEADS TOYOTA CUP STANDINGS

Mark Cullen is the early leader in the Phantoms Toyota Cup standings for the 2006-07 season. Phantoms players are awarded points (five points for being the First Star, three for Second Star and one for Third Star) each time that they are chosen as a Star of the Game. The Tri-State Toyota Dealers will make a donation in the name of the winner to the player's favorite charity. Cullen has 11 points under the formula, while Matt Ellison and Stefan Ruzicka have eight points apiece.

PHANTOMS NOTABLES

Phantoms captain John Slaney returned to the lineup on Friday vs. Binghamton after missing two months due to injury... When the Phantoms score three or fewer goals, their record is 1-16-0. The win came in Manitoba by a 3-0 final on October 13. When they score four or more goals, the Phantoms are 10-1-1. The regulation loss came in a 7-5 defeat in Norfolk on November 25... With 22 points, Mark Cullen is the Phantoms leading scorer. A 22-point scoring leader is the lowest of any team in the AHL... 15 players on the Philadelphia Flyers active roster for last Saturday's game with Ottawa played for the Phantoms within the last year and a half... The Phantoms have seen 96 player transactions so far this season and have used 36 different players.

BROADCASTS THIS WEEK ON 610WIP.COM

Wednesday's game at Hershey can be heard live on WIP's Internet audio stream at WIP - Philadelphia's Sports Radio - Homepage. Mike Thornton will have the call of the game on the WIP stream, as well as on the B2 Networks.

B2 RETURNS

Every Phantoms game this season is being broadcast with streaming video through the league's partnership with B2 Networks. A ticket for the game is $6, which allows fans to watch the game via a broadband Internet connection from their own homes! B2 is offering the new Power Play package this season, which offers fans the opportunity to purchase a season pass to all 80 games for as little as $150, a savings of almost 70 percent off the regular price. Visit Phantoms Hockey - A Spirited Website for more details.

TICKET INFORMATION

All kids tickets for all Phantoms games are just $8. To purchase, go to phantomshockey.com or call 800-298-4200.

UPCOMING OPPONENTS

Date Opponent Site Time

Tuesday, Dec. 26 Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins Wachovia Arena 7:05

Wednesday, Dec. 27 Hershey Bears GIANT Center 7:00

Friday, Dec. 29 Providence Bruins Wachovia Spectrum 7:05

Saturday, Dec. 30 Lowell Devils Wachovia Spectrum 7:05

LAST WEEK'S RESULTS

Date Opponent Site W-L Score

Friday, Dec. 22 Binghamton Senators Wachovia Spectrum W 4-2

Saturday, Dec. 23 Hershey Bears GIANT Center L 4-1

RECORD: 11-17-1-0, 23 pts, 6th, East Division

 

[truebluefan]

Portland Pirates Weekly Report

The Anaheim Ducks announced today that the National Hockey League (NHL) club has loaned center Tim Brent to Team Canada for the 2006 Spengler Cup. Played every year in Davos, Switzerland from Dec. 25-31, the Spengler Cup is the oldest European tournament for club teams.

Didn't unwrap a winning lottery ticket over the holidays? Don't worry, you can still win! Now you can send that non-winning Maine State Lottery ticket to the Pirates and be entered into the Maine State Lottery / Portland Pirates Second Chance Sweepstakes!

Next home game: Friday, December 29th - 7:05 PM vs. Springfield Falcons

Every Friday is Amato's Future Stars Friday! All you need to do is present your Amato's Future Stars ID card at the ticket window the day of the game or in advance and you will receive one (1) FREE reserved seat. To get your Amato's Future Stars ID card call the Pirates at (207) 828-4665. Friday will also be Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram Family Night with the Portland Pirates. Bring the whole family to this Portland Pirates game for just $25! Check out the Maine Sunday Telegram/Portland Press Herald every Sunday and Thursday before the Friday Family Night game for your Family Night coupon. Plus, in celebration of 30 Years of AHL Hockey in Portland, the Pirates will be wearing throwback jerseys for the final time this season.

Throwback Jersey Auction!

The first group of these special jerseys is now available for purchase through an online auction. The minimum bid for each jersey is $250 (USD) and the minimum bid increment is $25. The current highest bids will be posted daily on Portland Pirates - Home. All bids must be received by 5:00 p.m. EDT on Friday, January 5th. At the close of the auction, an email will be sent to the winning bidder for each jersey. Don't miss your chance at a piece of Pirates History, click here to place your bid!

UPCOMING PROMOTIONS

Win Airline Tickets courtesy of jetBlue!

People who cast a vote on the Pirates weekly on-line fan poll question will have the option to enter to win one of two (2) round trips for two (2) people on JetBlue Airways. The winner has the option to fly from Portland to New York (JFK) or from Boston (Logan) to any non-stop JetBlue city. One winner will be selected on February 2, 2007 and one winner will be selected on April 20, 2007. So cast your vote and good luck from the Pirates and JetBlue! Vote now!

Sunday, December 31st - 5:35 PM vs. Hartford Wolf Pack

Kids New Years with fireworks sponsored by U.S.Cellular!

After the game, the Pirates will host the largest indoor fireworks show in the state choreographed by the award winning team at Atlas PyroVision Productions.

Want to have breakfast with the boys? Right now stop into Eggspectation at 125 Western Ave. in South Portland and enter to win Breakfast with the Boys. Two lucky fans, each with three guests, will enjoy much more than eggs when they have free breakfast with two Pirates players at Eggspectation at 7am Tuesday, February 27th. Following breakfast is a trip to a Pirates team practice where you can watch practice, take pictures and get a VIP tour of the Pirates locker room.

Free Kids Tickets at Wendy's

The Portland Pirates and Wendy's are proud to announce that they have partnered up to offer FREE kids tickets at greater Portland area Wendy's. Pirates fans can visit local Wendy's restaurants and pick up a coupon for a FREE kids ticket to any 2006-07 Pirates home game. In addition, any time the Pirates win a home game, fans can bring their ticket stubs to local Wendy's restaurants - either that night or the following day - to receive a FREE small chili.

Special Offer at Costa Vida

Bring your Portland Pirates ticket stub to Costa Vida Fresh Mexican Grill and score a free appetizer or dessert with purchase of an entrée.

THE WEEK AHEAD...

WCSH 6 Coach's Corner

Head Coach Kevin Dineen recently sat down with Lee Goldberg for a brand new edition of coach's corner now produced and presented by WCSH 6 which can be seen at Portland Pirates - Home.

Eye on the Pirates

Every Thursday during the 6 o'clock news on WCSH 6, sports anchor Lee Goldberg focuses on the Pirates top stories and headlines and previews the upcoming weekend.

Gillies on FOX Sports Maine

Every Thursday at 4:25 p.m. tune in to Fox Sports Maine (97.5 FM, 1280 AM and 1450 AM) and hear "The Penalty Box" with host John Brubaker and Pirates forward Trevor Gillies.

 

[truebluefan]

Pair called up to New York

New York, December 26, 2006 -- New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that forward Jed Ortmeyer and defenseman Bryce Lampman have been recalled from the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League (AHL). Ortmeyer will remain a non-roster injured player pending medical examination for clearance to play. In addition, forward Brad Isbister was reassigned to Hartford (AHL).

Ortmeyer, 28, registered one goal and two assists, along with a plus-two rating in five games with Hartford (AHL) after being sent to the Wolf Pack on December 12 on a conditioning loan, allowed for players who have had long-term illnesses. The 6-0, 197-pound forward was cleared for contact in practice on November 24 after medical testing showed he was ready to take the next step in his recovery from a pulmonary embolism that was diagnosed on August 13, 2006. In 2005-06, Ortmeyer skated in 78 games with the Rangers, registering five goals and two assists, along with 38 penalty minutes. He ranked first among team forwards and seventh among all NHL forwards with 75 blocked shots.

Lampman, 24, has appeared in 28 games with Hartford this season, registering three goals and five assists for eight points, along with a plus-four rating and 36 penalty minutes. His plus-four rating currently ranks third on the team. In 2005-06, the 6-1, 205-pound defenseman suffered a dislocated left shoulder on November 20 against Portland and was forced to miss a majority of the season. Prior to the injury, he collected two goals and three assists in 11 games with the Wolf Pack.

Isbister, 29, registered one goal in two games with the Rangers after being recalled from Hartford on December 20. Prior to his recall, the 6-4, 231-pound forward appeared in 17 AHL games with the Hartford Wolf Pack and Albany River Rats, registering four goals and five assists, along with 56 penalty minutes. In eight games with Hartford, he collected one goal and two penalty minutes after being acquired by the Rangers from Carolina on November 21, in exchange for the rights to Jakub Petruzalek and a conditional fifth round pick in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.

The NHL's New York Rangers hockey club, currently in its 81st year of operation, is part of Madison Square Garden, L.P. Madison Square Garden, L.P. is owned by Cablevision Systems Corporation, and includes the New York Knicks (NBA); the New York Rangers (NHL); the New York Liberty (WNBA); the Hartford Wolf Pack (American Hockey League); MSG Entertainment; MSG Media, which is comprised of MSG and FSN New York; and the Madison Square Garden arena complex, located in the heart of the New York metropolitan area.

 

[truebluefan]

'Dogs hold on to down Amerks

'Dogs hold on to down Amerks
12/26/06 - American Hockey League (AHL) Hamilton Bulldogs

Hamilton Bulldogs
HAMILTON, ON - The Hamilton Bulldogs built a three-goal lead in the first two periods and held on to win 3-2 over the Rochester Americans on Tuesday night at Blue Cross Arena at Rochester War Memorial. With the win, Hamilton (20-10-1-1) is now only one point behind Rochester (21-8-1-0) for first place in the North Division standings. The Bulldogs have now recorded at least one point in seven straight games, going 6-0-1-0 in that span.

Hamilton opened the scoring at 16:23 of the first period when Ajay Baines scored his sixth goal of the season. Baines poked at a loose puck in the Rochester crease and finally buried a backhand shot to give the Bulldogs a 1-0 lead. Jonathan Ferland and Francis Lemieux earned assists on the goal.

Duncan Milroy notched his team-leading 13th goal of the season to give the Bulldogs a 2-0 lead at 4:40 of the second period. Mikhail Grabovski broke down the right wing on the power play and had his initial shot stopped by Amerks netminder Craig Anderson before Milroy picked up the rebound and found the back of the net.

The 'Dogs took a three-goal lead when Corey Locke one-timed a Matt D'Agostini pass into the top corner of the Rochester net. Locke's goal, his ninth of the season, came at 6:23 of the middle stanza and made the score 3-0.

Rochester got on the scoreboard at 2:55 of the third period when Mike Funk posted a power-play goal to cut Hamilton's lead to 3-1. Funk took a pass from Dylan Hunter in the slot and let a wrist shot go that beat 'Dogs netminder Yann Danis on the stick side.

The Amerks then pulled within a goal when Stefan Meyer tallied his sixth marker of the season, but that would be as close as Rochester would get as the Bulldogs held on for a 3-2 win. Kamil Kreps and Greg Jacina added helpers on the Meyer goal.

Danis turned aside 29 of 32 shots for the Bulldogs, picking up his 10th win of the season. At the other end of the ice, Anderson made 20 saves on 23 shots and suffered the loss for the Americans.

Game Notes: Nine different Bulldogs each had one point in the game ... Forward Maxim Lapierre has the flu and did not dress for the game.

The Bulldogs return to action tomorrow night (December 27th) at 7:30 p.m. when the Manitoba Moose visit Copps Coliseum. Tickets for all 'Dogs home games (except home game #32) are available at the Copps Coliseum Box Office, any Ticketmaster outlet, online at Official Ticketmaster site. Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more, or through charge-by-phone at 905-527-7666. Fans can listen to the game live on the flagship station of the Hamilton Bulldogs Hockey Network, 820 CHAM "The Legend," beginning with the Park's Furniture Pre-Game Show at 7:10 p.m. Fans can also listen or watch at Hamilton Bulldogs :: Bulldogs by clicking on the 'B2 Networks' or '820 CHAM' icon on the 'Dogs website.

• Discuss this story on the American Hockey League message board...

The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

 

[truebluefan]

Bears back in first place after downing Bridgeport, 6-3 12/26/06 - American Hockey L

Coupled with a Wilkes-Barre/Scranton loss at home against Philadelphia, the BEARS put a 6-3 win to good use in Bridgeport. With the club's 21st win of the season and now 49 points, HERSHEY leads the East Division by one point over the Penguins and two points over third place Norfolk.

HERSHEY took an early 1-0 lead thanks to the efforts of Kyle Wilson. With the game scoreless at the 6:59 mark, Wilson forced a Bridgeport turnover and went the distance on a breakaway. The goal was his sixth of the season, and the BEARS led 1-0. HERSHEY would run the score out to 2-0 when Alexandre Giroux struck for a power play marker at 13:32 to build a 2-0 advantage. Moving the puck quickly in the offensive zone, Timo Helbling fed Giroux for the one-timer, with Tomas Fleischmann picking up a playmaker as well. After Frans Nielsen tipped in a Drew Fata shot for Bridgeport at 15:50, HERSHEY rebounded almost immediately with Louis Robitaille's fourth goal of the season. The lamp-lighter for Louis was his fourth of the season, and it came just 16 seconds after Nielsen's goal at 16:06. HERSHEY fired 13 shots at two Bridgeport goaltenders, as starter Billy Thompson was pulled after Robitaille's goal. Thompson allowed three goals on 12 shots, while backup Michael Mole stopped the only shot he saw in relief. The BEARS led the game 3-1 after one.

Bridgeport would close to within a goal when Drew Fata scored his second goal of the season at 4:53 of the second period. The Tigers then drew even with Jason Pitton's second goal of the year at 12:59, but Dave Steckel would get the BEARS back in front before the period came to a close. Steckel tipped a Trevor Byrne shot past Bridgeport's Mole for his 11th goal of the season. As the period came to a close, Blake Comeau took a five-minute boarding major for blasting Dean Arsene into the wall as icing was called in the HERSHEY zone. Comeau also earned a game misconduct for the hit. The BEARS took a slim 4-3 lead to the dressing room after 40 minutes.

Wilson would pick up his second goal of the game and his seventh of the season at 13:11 of the third period to lift the BEARS to a 5-3 lead. Quintin Laing scored an empty-net goal to finish off the Tigers. The win for HERSHEY was the first in three tries this season against Bridgeport.

Notes: The BEARS traveled game day to Bridgeport for the game, arriving just 20 minutes prior to pre-game warm-ups. A traffic tie-up on Interstate 95 in Connecticut was to blame. Jonas Johansson was recalled to Washington but did not play for the Capitals in Buffalo against the Sabres. Steckel's goal was his fourth in his last five games. HERSHEY will face Philadelphia Wednesday back at GIANT Center at 7:00 p.m. Lawrence Nycholat picked up the lone assist on an Alex Ovechkin goal in Washington's 6-3 loss to Buffalo.

 

[truebluefan]

Rivermen Power Through Grand Rapids 4-3 on the Road

Grand Rapids, MI. (December 26, 2006) - Tuesday night's contest could be dubbed as an instructional video of "How to Score on the Power Play," as all seven goals were scored on the man-advantage, with a season-high four power play goals scored by the Peoria Rivermen, in their 4-3 victory over the Grand Rapids Griffins in front of 4,650 at Van Andel Arena.

Prior to tonight's game, the Rivermen capitalized on 32 of 164 opportunities, while the Griffins man-advantage unit were only 26 for 184, ranking the teams eighth and 23 rd in the AHL, respectively. Following the contest, in which Peoria went four for nine on the power play, the Rivermen vaulted to fifth in the league with a 20.8-percent efficiency mark (36 for 173).

Tonight also marked the fifth straight game in which left wing Peter Sejna collected two points; he has collected four goals and six assists during this stretch, and has tied Trent Whitfield for the team-lead in points with 26.

After a scoreless first period, Grand Rapids (13-15-3-2, 31 pts) netted the first goal of the game at 3:33 of the second stanza on a two-man advantage. Right wing Ryan Keller slid a pass from the right point to the left point for defenseman Jonathon Ericsson, who fired the puck to the right slot for center Kip Miller. Miller wristed a shot above the left shoulder of Rivermen goaltender Marek Schwarz, who wasn't able to scramble back in time to make the save, for his 12 th tally of the season.

Peoria (16-10-1-2, 35 pts) responded with a power play goal of its own at 8:43 of the middle period. After the Griffins failed to clear the puck from their zone, right wing Mike Glumac controlled it at the left-wing boards then skated up to the left face-off dot, where he wound-up and blasted a shot into the upper right corner of the net, past Grand Rapids netminder Stefan Liv, who appeared to be screened on the play. The goal was the ninth of the year for Glumac.

The Rivermen took the lead on a 5-on-3 power play at 16:01 of the second session on center Trent Whitfield's 14 th tally of the year. Left wing Peter Sejna sent a pass through the goal crease from the bottom of the right face-off circle to Whitfield streaking in from the slot to tap the puck past the outstretched right leg of Liv.

Peoria increased the lead to 3-1 on Whitfield's second two-man advantage marker of the game at 3:45 of the final frame. Glumac began a 2-on-1 opportunity at the neutral zone with Whitfield as Glumac raced down the right-wing boards and abruptly stopped at the right face-off circle, dished the puck to Whitfield, who was flying through the slot and redirected the pass on net that somehow sneaked between the legs of Liv. The goal was Whitfield's 15th of the 2006-07 campaign, giving him sole possession of the team lead in goals, surpassing Charles Linglet.

Grand Rapids cut their deficit to 3-2 as Miller registered his second 5-on-3 power play goal of the contest at 10:12 of the third period. From the bottom of the left face-off circle, right wing Josh Langfeld threw a cross-ice pass in the right face-off circle for Miller, who simply slid the puck into the vacated net for his 13 th goal and team-leading 34 th point of the season.

The Rivermen regained a two-goal advantage while scoring their season-high fourth power play goal of the night to take the lead for good, at 16:11 of the final period. Defenseman Roman Polak stole the puck in the neutral zone, knocked it off the left-wing boards around a Griffins defender and then skated one-on-one with Liv. Once Polak reached the slot, he faked right and chipped the puck between the left post and right arm of Liv for his second marker of the year.

The Griffins capped off the scoring with their third man-advantage tally of the game at 18:54 of the third period. Ericsson blasted a shot from center point that was redirected through the legs of Schwarz from the left slot by center Matt Hussey for his seventh goal of the season.

The Rivermen improved to 6-5-1-2 on the road and will return home tomorrow night, Wednesday, December 27 at 7:00 p.m. vs. the Milwaukee Admirals. The game is the first of seven Nesquik "Wacky Wednesday" promotions in which fans can buy one (1) upper bowl ticket and get one (1) free with UPC (Proof of Purchase).

 

[truebluefan]

Hershey Beats Sound Tigers

The Hershey Bears defeated the Bridgeport Sound Tigers 6-3 before 3,123 fans at the Arena at Harbor Yard on Tuesday night. Kyle Wilson scored two goals and Alexandre Giroux, Dave Steckel and Quintin Lang each had a goal and an assist for the Bears. Hershey improved to 21-4-3-4 and the Sound Tigers dropped to 13-13-1-3.

The Sound Tigers overcame a 3-1 second-period deficit on goals by Drew Fata and Jason Pitton to tie the game before Steckel scored late in the middle period for a 4-3 Hershey advantage. Pitton's goal came after a nice feed from Petteri Nokelainen; Masi Marjamaki also assisted the goal at 12:51 of the second. Steckel regained Hershey's lead just with what proved to be the game winner 1:21 later.

Trailing 2-0 in the first period, Frans Nielsen scored Bridgeport's first goal of the night by redirecting a Drew Fata feed past Hershey goaltender Maxime Daigneault. Nielsen extended his goal-scoring streak to four games. Just 16 seconds after Nielsen's goal, Louis Robitaille answered for a 3-1 Hershey lead.

Hershey was 1-for-6 on the power play and Bridgeport went 0-for-7 on the advantage. The Sound Tigers outshot Hershey 31-26. Billy Thompson started in goal for the Sound Tigers and stopped nine of 12 shots before being replaced by Michael Mole who kicked aside 11 of 13 Hershey shots. Laing's goal was an empty-netter in the waning moments.

The Sound Tigers will host the Hartford Wolf Pack on Friday at the Arena at Harbor Yard at 7:30 p.m. For schedule and ticket information, including group discount opportunities, visit soundtigers.com or call 334-4625.

 

[truebluefan]

Phantoms upend Penguins

WILKES-BARRE, PA - Niko Dimitrakos figured in all three Philadelphia Phantoms goals Tuesday night, scoring two himself and assisting on a third to power his club to a 3-1 win over the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins at Wachovia Arena at Casey Plaza. Phantoms captain John Slaney, a former Penguin, notched three assists in Philadelphia's third victory in its last four games.

Thanks in large part to starting goaltenders Scott Munroe and Jeff Deslauriers, the fourth meeting of the season between the intrastate rivals stayed scoreless in the first. The Phantoms had some quality efforts, including a 1-1 with Philadelphia's Triston Grant alone at the top of the crease, only to be denied by the glove hand of Deslauriers.

While the day after Christmas is a day known for exchanging sweaters that are a size too big and trading out ties that never should have been under the tree, this Boxing Day affair saw punches traded before any gifts or goals were exchanged. The second period featured some fireworks with Phantom Frederik Cabana squaring off in a long bout with thorn Daniel Carcillo. The heavyweight event, only three seconds after the doors closed behind the earlier combatants, saw Philly's Martin Grenier mix it up with AHL's all-time penalty minute leader Dennis Bonvie.

When the dust cleared and the penalties had expired, Grenier notched his first point of the season. Slaney entered the Pens zone before dumping the puck ad changing with Grenier. The 6-5, 245 pound defenseman went across the ice and snuck down the right wing, where he was waiting when Dimitrakos threaded the puck to him from the opposite sidewall. Grenier's one-timer caught a piece of iron and then the back of the net for the 1-0 lead with just 1:56 remaining in the period.

In the third period, Kyle Brodzniak tied the game with a goal at 9:26. Brodzniak tossed a rebound towards the net, which initially hit the post before taking an atypical bounce and crawling across the goal line.

But Dimitrakos answered with his first of the game less than three minutes later. Slaney fed a puck to the neutral zone for Cabana on the left wing. Cabana took it to the top of the left-wing circle before feeding it to Dimitrakos in the slot. Dimitrakos put the puck home on the backhand at 12:10, giving his club the 2-1 advantage. He later closed out the scoring with an empty-netter with 11 seconds remaining.

Munroe made 27 saves on 28 shots to earn the win. Deslauriers faced 23 of Philadelphia's 24 shots, stopping 21 of them.

The Phantoms continue their midweek road swing tomorrow night at Hershey when they visit the Bears in a 7:05 start. They'll return to the Wachovia Spectrum on Friday, December 29 to host the Providence Bruins. Individual tickets for all Phantoms games, including $8 tickets for children 14 and under anywhere in the building, are on sale now at phantomshockey.com or by calling 800-298-4200.

 

[truebluefan]

Wolf Pack Recall Lee, Bahensky and Constant from Charlotte

Hartford, December 26, 2006: Hartford Wolf Pack general manager/head coach Jim Schoenfeld announced today that the team has recalled forwards Mark Lee and Zdenek Bahensky along with defenseman Ryan Constant to the Wolf Pack from Charlotte of the ECHL.

This season, Lee, 22, has registered 12 goals and 27 assists for 39 points in 27 games with the Charlotte Checkers of the ECHL, along with 28 penalty minutes. Last season, Lee skated in 27 games with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, netting one goal and registering 10 penalty minutes. Lee also appeared in 36 ECHL games with the Trenton Titans in 2005-06, registering six goals and 19 assists for 25 points, along with 30 penalty minutes. The forward spent most of his first pro season in the UHL, after playing one season in the QMJHL with the Prince Edward Island Rocket.

Bahensky, 20, has registered three goals and three assists for six points in 25 games with Charlotte this season, along with 43 penalty minutes. An AHL rookie, the forward played in two games for the Wolf Pack at the start of this season, with no points or penalty minutes.

In 27 games with Charlotte this season, Constant has registered two goals and 11 assists for 13 points and 30 penalty minutes. The defenseman spent last season in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, where he played with the OCN (Opaskwayak Cree Nation) Blizzard. In 57 games of action, the 21-year-old, 5-11, 200-pound blueliner scored 13 goals and posted 45 assists for 58 points, while totaling 253 penalty minutes.

The Wolf Pack return to action tomorrow night facing the Springfield Falcons in Springfield (7:05 PM faceoff) for the third installment of the DATTCO I-91 Challenge, followed by a visit to Bridgeport for the fifth game of the best-of-10 GEICO Connecticut Cup Challenge series on Friday (7:30 PM start). The Pack will then host the Manchester Monarchs at home on Saturday (7:00 PM faceoff). This is another Wolf Pack tenth anniversary commemorative giveaway night. The first 5,000 fans into the game will receive a commemorative Wolf Pack Flag and will also be treated to an in-game concert sponsored by Radio Disney featuring the Jonas Brothers, the Truth Squad and Nothing but Strings. The Pack will wrap up the week with a road trip to Portland on Sunday to face the Pirates (5:35 PM start).

Individual tickets for Wolf Pack games are on sale now at the Hartford Civic Center Box Office and all Ticketmaster locations. Tickets may also be charged by phone at (860) 525-4500, (203) 744-8100, (203) 624-0033 or (413) 733-2500 or online at Official Ticketmaster site. Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more. Season tickets, five, 10 and 20 game packages and group tickets are also available. Contact 860-548-2000 for more details.

The AHL's Hartford Wolf Pack hockey club is part of Madison Square Garden LP. Cablevision Systems Corporation owns a controlling interest in MSG LP, which also includes the New York Rangers (NHL); New York Knicks (NBA); the New York Liberty (WNBA); MSG Entertainment; MSG Media, which is comprised of MSG and FSN New York; and the Madison Square Garden arena complex, located in the heart of the New York metropolitan area.

 

[truebluefan]

Peoria Powers Past Griffins, 4-3

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - In a game that saw all seven goals scored on power plays, including two for each team during 5-on-3 advantages, the Peoria Rivermen came out on top with a 4-3 decision over the Grand Rapids Griffins on Tuesday at Van Andel Arena.

Peoria (16-10-1-2), whose six goals during the home-and-home set with Grand Rapids all came on the power play, scored its third and fourth markers in disputed fashion, handing the Griffins (13-15-3-2) their fifth setback in the last six games. Grand Rapids will visit Milwaukee on Friday before ringing out 2006 with home games on Saturday and New Year's Eve.

The Griffins struck during a 5-on-3 early in the second period for a 1-0 lead. Jonathan Ericsson found Kip Miller at the bottom of the right circle, and the AHL All-Star quickly beat Marek Schwarz inside the far post at 3:33 for the 400th goal of his 17-year career. Peoria answered during a Griffins penalty for too many men at 8:43, as Mike Glumac snapped a shot from the left faceoff dot that found its way into the top of the net through a sea of players in front of Stefan Liv.

During a Rivermen 5-on-3 late in the period - just after Liv had robbed Charles Linglet with a beautiful pad save - Peter Sejna gave the visitors their first lead of the night, centering a pass that deflected off Dan Smith and into the net at the 16:01 mark. Trent Whitfield scored during another two-man advantage 3:45 into the final frame for a 3-1 cushion, literally crashing into Liv to force the puck loose and across the line.

Miller's second goal of the night, courtesy of yet another 5-on-3, pulled the Griffins to within one goal at 10:12. From the right point, Ericsson sent a cross-ice pass down low to Josh Langfeld, who zipped a feed through the crease for an easy Miller tap-in from the right side.

The Griffins' comeback chances were dimmed due to a non-call with just under four minutes remaining. Roman Polak mugged Matt Hussey at the Grand Rapids blue line, walked in with the pilfered puck and beat Liv from the hashmarks at 16:11 for the Rivermen's fourth power play goal. Hussey gained a measure of revenge by notching the game's seventh power play goal with 1:06 remaining to make it a 4-3 game, but the Griffins could not net the equalizer despite a flurry around the Peoria net in the final seconds.

Each team finished with nine power play chances. Liv stopped 23 shots in a strong effort, while Schwarz turned aside 19.

After the game, Langfeld was recalled by the Detroit Red Wings for the second time this season