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AHL news 12/28

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#1 ·
AHL Quick Hits


LOOKING BACK: Yann Danis made 29 saves as Hamilton moved to within one point of first place in the North Division with a 3-2 win in Rochester... Darren Haydar extended his AHL-record scoring streak to 33 games with three points in Chicago's 5-4 overtime win in Milwaukee... All seven goals in Peoria's 4-3 win at Grand Rapids were scored on the power play... Al Montoya earned his first shutout of the season as Hartford blanked Worcester, 2-0... Joel Lundqvist scored twice during Iowa's four-goal third period en route to a 5-2 win over Omaha.

Mon 12/25
No games scheduled

Tue 12/26
BINGHAMTON 4, Syracuse 2... Hershey 6, BRIDGEPORT 3... Peoria 4, GRAND RAPIDS 3... HOUSTON 3, San Antonio 2 (SO)... IOWA 5, Omaha 2... Chicago 5, MILWAUKEE 4 (OT)... Hamilton 3, ROCHESTER 2... Philadelphia 3, W-B/SCRANTON 1... Hartford 2, WORCSTER 0

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LOOKING AHEAD: Albany hosts Wilkes-Barre/Scranton in an East Division matchup Wednesday night... The River Rats are looking for their first win of the season against one of the East's powerhouses - they are 0-6-0-0 against Wilkes-Barre and Hershey (they have yet to play Norfolk this season), and 15-7-2-0 against the rest of the AHL... Johnny Boychuk recorded a hat trick in Albany's 5-4 overtime win at Syracuse on Saturday, the first three-goal game by an AHL defenseman this year... Jakub Petruzalek had an assist on Saturday, his fourth straight game with a helper... The Penguins, coming off a 3-1 defeat to Philadelphia on Tuesday, have not suffered back-to-back regulation losses all season... Defenseman Noah Welch has two goals and four assists in his last five games for Wilkes-Barre.

Lowell entertains Manchester on Wednesday in the teams' sixth meeting of the season... The Monarchs have not lost in regulation to the Devils (3-0-1-1) this year, and enter the game one point behind first-place Portland in the Atlantic Division... Patrick O'Sullivan, a 47-goal scorer as a rookie with Houston last year, leads Manchester with 11 goals this season... Jason LaBarbera has made 12 consecutive starts and 17 straight appearances for the Monarchs... Justin Papineau has recorded 15 points (7g, 8a) in his last 12 games for the Devils, who have lost three of their last four home contests.

Milwaukee heads to Peoria on Wednesday trailing the third-place Rivermen by one point in the West Division, and with a 6-1-0-2 record in its last nine road games... The Admirals are winless in their last three overall (0-1-1-1), including Tuesday's 5-4 overtime defeat to Chicago... Rich Peverley scored twice in that one for Milwaukee, extending his scoring streak to 13 games (8g, 11a)... Ramzi Abid added four assists, giving him nine points in his last five games... Peoria owns a record of 12-4-1-1 against division opponents this season, including a win and a loss (both in overtime) against Milwaukee back in November... With two points in each of his last five games, Peter Sejna has taken over the Rivermen scoring lead with 24 points on the year... Trent Whitfield had a goal and two assists in Tuesday's 4-3 Peoria win in Grand Rapids.

(all times Eastern)
Wed 12/27
W-B/Scranton at Albany, 7:00... Philadelphia at Hershey, 7:00... Toronto at Syracuse, 7:00... Manchester at Lowell, 7:05... Hartford at Springfield, 7:05... Providence at Norfolk, 7:15... Manitoba at Hamilton, 7:30... Houston at Chicago, 8:00... Omaha at San Antonio, 8:00... Milwaukee at Peoria, 8:00

Thu 12/28
Manitoba at Toronto, 7:30

Fri 12/29
Hershey at Albany, 7:00... Providence at Philadelphia, 7:05... Springfield at Portland, 7:05... Lowell at Norfolk, 7:15... Hartford at Bridgeport, 7:30... Toronto at Hamilton, 7:30... W-B/Scranton at Syracuse, 7:30... Worcester at Manchester, 7:35... Binghamton at Rochester, 7:35... Grand Rapids at Milwaukee, 8:00... Iowa at Omaha, 8:00... Houston at San Antonio, 8:00... Chicago at Peoria, 8:30

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ALUMNI WATCH: On Tuesday, two-time AHL All-Star Lawrence Nycholat recorded his first career NHL point with an assist in Washington's 6-3 loss to Buffalo... Toronto native Joel Ward picked up his first NHL point with an assist in Minnesota's 4-3 loss to the Maple Leafs at the Air Canada Centre... Kent Huskins, a veteran of 396 AHL games, picked up an assist in his second career NHL game, helping Anaheim beat San Jose, 4-3.

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BY THE NUMBERS: 7 -- Major AHL statistical categories currently led (or co-led) by members of the Chicago Wolves: goals (Brett Sterling), assists (Darren Haydar), points (Haydar), penalty minutes (Boris Valabik), power-play goals (Sterling), game-winning goals (Sterling) and plus/minus (Haydar).

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AHL ON B2 NETWORKS: B2 Networks brings AHL action to your computer all season long with live video webcasts of nearly every AHL game... Visit theahl.com for details.
 
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#2 ·
Wolves Release McMorrow

The Chicago Wolves have released right wing SEAN McMORROW.

The 24-year-old forward has not appeared in any games with Chicago this season.

The Wolves lead the AHL with 24 wins and 50 points (24-7-1-1) entering tonight's contest against the Houston Aeros at the Allstate Arena at 7 p.m., matching the best start in franchise history through 33 games with the 1997-98 Turner Cup Championship squad (24-7-2).
 
#3 ·
Senators team with MDA for third annual Spaghetti On Ice

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. - The Binghamton Senators will hang-up their skates to become waiters on Sunday, January 7, as the hockey club has once again teamed with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) for the annual Spaghetti On Ice event at the Holiday Inn Arena in Binghamton.

The third annual Spaghetti On Ice will begin at 12:30 p.m. with a complimentary autograph & photo session for those who purchased tickets to the event. During the welcome hour, fans can purchase commemorative T-shirts, bid on items in the "Fisherman's Auction" and the silent jersey auction.

Binghamton Senators' players will serve spaghetti dinners from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. After dinner is complete, select Senators' signed jerseys will be auctioned off live.

The cost of a ticket is $15, while children age five and under enter free. Every guest will take home a 2007 Spaghetti On Ice puck. Max the mascot will be on-hand to greet fans throughout the day.

Tickets can be purchased at the Muscular Dystrophy Association office at 1249 Upper Front Street in Binghamton, inside the Binghamton Senators' executive office on the third floor of the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena, or by calling (607) 723-7431.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association will also be selling tickets at upcoming Binghamton Senators' home games on Friday, Jan. 5 and Saturday, Jan. 6. Please look for their table on the concourse level of the Arena.

The Spaghetti On Ice event raised over $18,000 dollars for the MDA in its first two years.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association is a voluntary health agency - a dedicated partnership between scientists and concerned citizens aimed at conquering neuromuscular diseases that affect more than a million Americans. MDA combats neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive medical and community services, and far-reaching professional and public health education.
 
#4 ·
WWE RAW Superstar Victoria to Appear January 17

Peoria, IL (December 27, 2006) - Peoria Rivermen President/CEO Bart Rogers, in association with Insight Media, announced today that WWE RAW superstar Victoria will appear and sign autographs at the teams' game on Wednesday, January 17 at 7:00 p.m. against the Rochester Americans.

A native of San Bernardino, California, current WWE Women's Champion Victoria will sign autographs prior to the game on January 17 and during the first intermission.

Tonight - Wednesday, December 27, the Rivermen return home to face off against the Milwaukee Admirals at 7:00 p.m. It is a Nesquik Wacky Wednesday; fans may redeem a Nesquik cap or UPC at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office to receive a Buy One Upper Bowl Center Ticket, Get One Free offer for the game. U.S. Cellular's 25 Greatest Rivermen of All-Time continues with Grant Rezansoff cards to the first 2,500 fans. On Friday, December 29, Peoria hosts the rival Chicago Wolves at 7:30 p.m. It's Ameren Mouse Pad night for the first 2,500 fans. On Saturday, December 30, the Rivermen are back on the road against the Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights. Game time is 7:00 p.m. at the Omaha Civic Auditorium. On Sunday, December 31 - New Year's Eve - Peoria hosts the Hamilton Bulldogs at 5:00 p.m.
 
#5 ·
Flames Summon Ference, Boyd To Calgary

The Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights announced today that the Calgary Flames, their National Hockey League affiliate, have recalled defenseman Brad Ference and center Dustin Boyd. The announcement was made by Flames' General Manager Darryl Sutter. Both players will join the Flames for their game tonight at Vancouver at 9:00 p.m. CT. In addition, the Knights signed defenseman Jason Jozsa (JOE-sah) to a professional tryout.

Ference has played in four games with the Flames this season, earning no points and two penalty minutes. Ference was signed by the Flames in July of 2006. The Calgary native is in eighth professional season after being drafted by Florida in the first round, tenth overall, in the 1997 Entry Draft. In 27 games with the Ak-Sar-Ben Knights this season, he has a goal and nine assists for ten points and a team-leading 81 penalty minutes. He ranks second in defenseman scoring.

Boyd is making his third appearance with the Flames this season. He earned his first NHL point, an assist, during his last recall. He made his NHL debut on November 1st at Detroit. In three total games, he has one assist and no penalty minutes. The native of Winnipeg, Manitoba is the Ak-Sar-Ben Knights' scoring leader with 12 goals and 17 assists for 29 points in 25 games. He has a team-leading seven powerplay goals and three game-winning goals. The Flames drafted Boyd in the third round, 98th overall, in the 2004 Entry Draft. This is his first professional season after four years of junior hockey with the Moose Jaw Warriors.

Jozsa is now in his fourth professional season. He has played in 25 games for the Las Vegas Wranglers, the Knights' ECHL affiliate, earning four goals and three assists for seven points and 28 penalty minutes. He took part in Ak-Sar-Ben Knights' training camp in September. In 2005-06, he set career highs in goals, assists, points and penalty minutes while playing with Greenville of the ECHL. In 67 games, he had five goals and 35 assists for 40 points and 47 penalty minutes. He added another goal and three assists in six playoff games. The Calgary native turned pro with Toledo of the ECHL in 2003-04 after a four-year career at Colorado College where he was a teammate of Knights' goaltender Curtis McElhinney for two seasons. In 143 career games, he had two goals and 26 assists along with 66 penalty minutes.

The Ak-Sar-Ben Knights continue their stretch of five games in six days when they visit the Rampage tonight at 7:00 p.m. The game can be heard live on 1420 KOTK and on the internet at omahaaksarbenknights.com. The game can be seen live on-line using the link to B2 Networks on the Knights' home page.

Tickets for all Ak-Sar-Ben Knights' games are on sale at the Omaha Civic Auditorium box office Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tickets also are available through all Ticketmaster outlets and by phone at (402) 422-1212. Kids 12 and under get in free with a paid adult on tickets purchased after 5:00 p.m. Other restrictions apply.
 
#6 ·
Wolves' numbers keep coming up

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. ... Numerologists would have a field day with the 2006-07 Chicago Wolves, who continue to put up offensive numbers rarely seen during the American Hockey League's 71-year history.

Chicago wrote another headline in their incredible season when Darren Haydar set an all-time league record by tallying a point in his 32nd consecutive game on Saturday. The record-breaking point was a second-period goal off rookie Josh Tordjman in a 2-1 overtime win over San Antonio.

Haydar came back from the Christmas break and ran the streak to 33 games with three assists in Tuesday's game against Milwaukee.

Almost as amazing as the streak itself is the fact that the fifth-year pro is averaging better than two points per game, putting up 67 points already this season. Wolves teammate Jason Krog, who has missed the last seven contests while on NHL recall to Atlanta, is now a distant second in the league with 52 points.

Nobody outside of Chicago is within 20 points of Haydar (Norfolk's Brandon Bochenski is fourth overall with 46 points), and no Western Conference player other than members of the Wolves is even as close as 30 points off the pace.

Chicago has scored 157 goals through 33 games, an average of 4.76 goals per match. Only two AHL teams since 1985 have lit the lamp as often: the 1992-93 Binghamton Rangers (4.90) and the 1992-93 Providence Bruins (4.80).

And thanks in part to their 254 power play chances, most in the league, the Wolves have scored 54 times with the man advantage, putting them on pace to better the existing AHL record (124 by the 1980-81 Nova Scotia Voyageurs).

There are currently four AHL players with at least 20 goals this season, and one of them is already closer to 40 than to 20. Wolves rookie Brett Sterling is starting to run away with the league's goal-scoring race, with 32 goals in 31 games played and a double-digit lead over his nearest opponents.

The 22-year-old Sterling has scored at least one goal in seven straight games, and is nearly halfway to Stephan Lebeau's overall and rookie record of 70 goals in one AHL season, set with the Sherbrooke Canadiens in 1988-89. Sterling, who won Rbk Hockey/AHL Rookie of the Month honors in November with 24 points in 12 games (14g, 10a), has followed that up with 14 goals and four assists in 11 games so far in December.

Also:

Cory Larose is also streaking in Chicago, with 18 points (5g, 13a) during his current seven-game run.

Rookie Alex Bourret has 14 points in his last nine games.

Haydar (+20) and defenseman Brian Sipotz (+19) own the top two plus/minus ratings in the league.

Blueliner Boris Valabik continues to lead the league with 133 penalty minutes, and his +15 rating is tops among all AHL rookies.

Derek MacKenzie has three shorthanded goals, one off the AHL lead.

The result? A 24-7-1-1 record which has the Wolves leading the league in wins and points (50) with a current seven-game points streak (6-0-0-1). Chicago has won 15 of 18 on the road this season, and has scored at least five goals in a game in more than half (17) of its 33 outings overall.

The Wolves look to keep it going when Houston visits Allstate Arena on Wednesday night.

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CONNECT FOUR ... Chicago and San Antonio combined to score four goals in the final 109 seconds of the Wolves' wild 4-3 win at the AT&T Center on Dec. 21. The Rampage tied the score twice in that span, but Brett Sterling put Chicago back in front both times.

The next night, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton scored the fastest four goals in team history, needing just 2:10 late in the first period to take a 4-0 lead over Bridgeport.

On Dec. 23, Rochester found that good things came in fours, also. The Amerks scored four power-play goals in a span of 4:28 during the second period, turning a two-goal deficit into a two-goal lead en route to a 6-5 win over Binghamton. Mike Funk scored once and Andrej Sekera twice during the outburst, the first pro goals for both defensemen.

The Senators paid it forward on Tuesday, scoring four second-period goals in a 4-2 win over Syracuse. And Iowa scored four times in the final frame to pull out a 5-2 win over Omaha.

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12 DAYS OF GIVING ... The San Antonio Rampage undertook a unique initiative leading up to Christmas, with players, coaches, wives and staff spreading holiday cheer each day from Dec. 11-22.

Included among the 12 Days of Giving were donating a Christmas tree (with all the trimmings) to five local families; purchasing and delivering presents to children at a local shelter; preparing and serving lunch to the city's homeless and hungry; collecting toys for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots program and for a children's hospital; baking Christmas cookies at a children's home; "adopting" and buying gifts for a needy family; donating a suite for a Spurs basketball game to Special Olympics; and playing street hockey with kids at the Boys & Girls Club.

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SPENGLER BOUND ... Several AHL players were among those selected to represent Canada at the 80th Spengler Cup tournament in Davos, Switzerland, this week.

Playing for Canada are Toronto's Justin Pogge and Jay Harrison, Grand Rapids' Danny Syvret, Iowa's Mario Scalzo, Manitoba's Brandon Reid and Portland's Tim Brent. The team is being coached by former AHL bench boss Pat Quinn.

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ETC. ... After going scoreless in his first 24 games, Albany defenseman Johnny Boychuk has five goals in his last six games, including a hat trick on Dec. 23 at Syracuse... Brandon Bochenski has 30 points (12g, 18a) during his current 13-game scoring streak for Norfolk... Milwaukee's Rich Peverley also has points in 13 straight games... Jonathan Filewich became the first Penguins player to score two shorthanded goals in one game in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton's 4-1 win over Norfolk on Saturday... Worcester teammates Mathieu Darche (3g, 2a) and Graham Mink (5a) each had five points in the Sharks' 6-4 win over Manchester on Dec. 22... San Antonio was 5-0 in games decided beyond regulation before a 2-1 overtime loss to Chicago on Dec. 23... A 4-for-56 slide has dropped Bridgeport down to last in the league on the power play (12.6 percent), but the Sound Tigers remain first on the penalty kill (89.8 percent)... Through Tuesday's games, three of the AHL's four divisions show second-place teams one point behind the leaders.
 
#7 ·
Speedy forward joins NHL

DES MOINES, IA - Iowa Stars Director of Hockey Operations Scott White announced Wednesday that the Dallas Stars (NHL) have recalled forward Chris Conner from their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate in Des Moines, Iowa.

A native of Ypsilanti, Michigan, Conner is currently the Iowa Stars fourth-leading scorer, recording 20 points. The 23-year old has notched nine goals and 11 assists, including two assists in Tuesday's 5-2 win over Omaha. In his last seven games, he has registered four goals and five assists, including a four-game points-streak that consists of one goal and four assists.

This is his second recall to the National Hockey League. He was recalled by Dallas on December 7th and made his NHL debut on December 8th against the Edmonton Oilers, recording 10:48 of ice time and three shots before being loan back to Iowa on December 10th.

In 15 regular season games with Iowa last year, he posted two goals and three assists: 15(2/3/5). He also had one goal and one assist in seven Calder Cup Playoff games last season. The Ypsilanti, Michigan-native left Michigan Tech with 69 career goals and 60 assists. Fifteen of his 69 goals came shorthanded, a MTU school record.

IOWA STARS INFO: After playing in Omaha on the 29th, the Stars return home for a Saturday, December 30th contest with the Milwaukee Admirals. Face-off is slated for 7:00 PM. The ImaginEve New Year's Eve festivities continue into the evening at Wells Fargo Arena when the Stars host the Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights again on New Year's Eve, Sunday, December 31st. The New Year's Eve game will have a special 7:30 PM start time. The world famous ZOOperstars will be on hand to entertain fans throughout the game. Special reduced tickets for the New Year's Eve game will be available to purchase at the Stars box office for just $5.00 for all children who attend the alcohol-free GuideOne ImaginEve event at Hy-Vee Hall from 2 - 6:30 PM! Iowa will also wear their third jerseys again that night. Doors open for all home games one hour before face-off. Bring a group or hold your child's birthday at a Stars game! All ticketing information can be obtained by calling 515-23-STARS or by visiting IowaStarsHockey.com.
 
#8 ·
Road game changed; Aeros make roster move

HOUSTON, Texas - The Houston Aeros' game at Milwaukee on Wednesday, Feb. 28, will instead be played on Sunday, Feb. 11 at 4 p.m., the teams announced today.

The Aeros return home this Saturday to face San Antonio at 7:35 p.m. Center ice tickets are $20 (normally $30), while corner tickets are $15 (normally $22). This offer is available only through the Aeros front office at 713.974.PUCK.

AEROS LOAN LEAVITT TO ECHL TEXAS

HOUSTON, Texas - The Houston Aeros have loaned center Alex Leavitt to the ECHL's Texas Wildcatters, the teams announced Wednesday.

Leavitt, 22 (1/31/84), has posted 11 points (2-9=11) in 23 games with the Aeros. Last season with ECHL Alaska, Leavitt led the circuit in scoring with 91 points (26-65=91) as a rookie.
 
#9 ·
Florida returns Sprukts to Rochester, recalls Booth

(Rochester, NY)... Rochester Americans General Manager Jody Gage announced today that forward Janis Sprukts has been reassigned to Rochester by the Florida Panthers. The move allowed the Panthers to recall forward David Booth.

Sprukts was recalled on December 18th and returns to Rochester after playing four games with the Panthers. In his return, Sprukts will look to extend his current five-game point-scoring streak (3+7) that began back on December 6th when he tallied the game-winning goal in the Amerks' 3-2 win over Manitoba. The Amerk rookie is second on the team in points with 27 (7+20) in 25 games.

Booth returns to South Florida for the third time this season. He made his NHL debut on November 20th against Boston and picked up his first NHL point/assist versus Anaheim on December 12th. In 19 games with the Amerks, Booth has registered three goals and six assists, and has a plus-five rating.

The Rochester Americans will play their final home game of 2006 this Friday, December 29th against the Binghamton Senators at The Blue Cross Arena. 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.

In the last meeting between the two clubs on December 23rd, Rochester pulled off a 6-5 comeback-win at the Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena. The Amerks rallied from two separate two-goal deficits and netted four straight power-play goals in the second period to capture the victory. The win was extra special for a pair of Amerk rookies, as Andrej Sekera (2+1) and Mike Funk (1 goal) picked up their first professional markers.
 
#10 ·
Admirals Announce Game Change

Milwaukee, WI-Milwaukee Admirals President Jon Greenberg announced today that the team's game versus the Houston Aeros, originally scheduled for 7:00 pm on Wednesday, February 28th, has been changed to a 4:00 pm game on Sunday, February 11th.

Tickets originally printed for the game on the 28th will be honored for February 11th.

The Admirals are back in action tonight when they battle the Peoria Rivermen in Peoria, before returning to the Bradley Center for a 7:00 pm game on Friday night versus the Grand Rapids Griffins. The first 5,000 fans to the game on Friday night will receive a cowbell, courtesy of Potawatomi Bingo Casino. For tickets fans can call Ticketmaster at (414) 276-4545 or log on to Official Ticketmaster site. Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more.
 
#11 ·
Rampage to send one lucky winner, friend to Las Vegas

SAN ANTONIO (December 27, 2006) - The San Antonio Rampage will be giving away a trip for two to Las Vegas, courtesy of Southwest Airlines, during Friday's game as part of their "Guys Night Out" promotion.

The Rampage will face the Houston Aeros at the AT&T Center at 7 p.m.

For only $12, fans can purchase a ticket to the game and also receive a free drink voucher when they log on to San Antonio Rampage - Home, print out the coupon and present it to the AT&T Center box office or any Ticketmaster location.

To win the trip, fans must register by filling out an entry-form upon entering the AT&T Center. The first 100 participants to sign up will receive a complimentary lunch or dinner coupon to Rudy's Bar-B-Q.

Fans will also get the chance to meet Stacie the Sports Chick and the Rampage Ice Girls prior to the game.
 
#12 ·
Wolf Pack Weekly

The Wolf Pack split a pair of Atlantic Division home games heading into the Christmas holiday, defeating the Springfield Falcons 2-1 on Friday night and dropping a 3-1 verdict to Providence Saturday, and then climbed back to the .500 mark with a 2-0 win in Worcester last night (Tuesday). Jed Ortmeyer notched the game-winning goal and had an assist in Friday's victory, Ivan Baranka's second goal of the season was the only Wolf Pack tally in Saturday's game, and Brandon Dubinsky bagged the game-winner and added an assist last night. Al Montoya chalked up his first shutout of the season, and the third of his pro career, with 20 saves in the triumph at Worcester.

This week:

The Wolf Pack continue a busy five-games-in-six-days stretch with a visit to Springfield tonight (Wednesday, 7:05), and then visit Bridgeport for a GEICO Connecticut Cup tilt on Friday night (7:35). The Pack's only home game of the week is Saturday night, as the Manchester Monarchs visit for a 7:00 game. That night features an in-game concert sponsored by Radio Disney and featuring the Jonas Brothers, the Truth Squad and Nuttin but Stringz. Also, the first 5,000 fans will receive a Wolf Pack Tenth-Anniversary Commemorative flag. The busy schedule segment concludes New Year's Eve, Sunday, with a trip to Portland. That game faces off at 5:35 PM.

Wednesday, December 27 at Springfield (MassMutual Center), 7:05 p.m.

After Friday's 2-1 win over the Falcons at the Hartford Civic Center, the Wolf Pack are 1-1-0-0 in the DATTCO I-91 Challenge. Springfield currently resides three points ahead of the Wolf Pack in the Atlantic Division standings, with a record of 16-14-0-1 for 33 points. Radio - live with Bob Crawford on ESPN Radio 1410 and on the web at: Hartford Wolf Pack || hartfordwolfpack.com or watch on B2 Network! Go to findfootball.biz for details.

Friday, December 29 at Bridgeport (Bridgeport's Arena at Harbor Yard), 7:30 p.m.

This is the fifth of ten GEICO Connecticut Cup battles on the year between the Wolf Pack and the Sound Tigers. The Wolf Pack have won three of the first four and the last three in a row, and are 2-0-0-0 in Bridgeport this season. The Sound Tigers sit fifth in the Atlantic Division, at 13-13-1-3 for 30 points, and have lost four out of their last five games. Radio - live with Bob Crawford on ESPN Radio 1410 and on the web at: Hartford Wolf Pack || hartfordwolfpack.com or watch on B2 Network! Go to findfootball.biz for details.

Saturday, December 30 vs. Manchester at the Hartford Civic Center, 7:00 p.m.

The Monarchs are 6-2-1-0 in their last nine games and are only one point off the lead in the Atlantic Division (15-10-6-1, 37 pts.). Former Wolf Pack star and AHL MVP Jason LaBarbera has appeared in 28 of Manchester's 32 games on the year, and has compiled a 14-12-1 record, a 2.46 goals-against average, 92.5% save percentage and three shutouts. The Pack and Monarchs have split two previous battles this season, with the Wolf Pack winning the only previous game at the Hartford Civic Center, 3-0 on December 2. Fans will be treated to an in-game concert at this game, with the Jonas Brothers, the Truth Squad and Nuttin but Stringz all scheduled to perform. The concert is presented by Radio Disney. This is another Wolf Pack Tenth-Anniversary Commemorative Giveaway night. The first 5,000 fans will take home a tenth-anniversary commemorative flag. Broadcast - live with Bob Crawford at Hartford Wolf Pack || hartfordwolfpack.com, or watch on B2 Networks! Go to Hartford Wolf Pack || hartfordwolfpack.com for details.

Sunday, December 31 at Portland (Cumberland County Civic Center), 5:35 p.m.

This is the Wolf Pack's first of four visits on the season to Portland. The two clubs have battled three times at the Hartford Civic Center, with the Wolf Pack winning two of the three. The Pirates lead the Atlantic Division with a record of 17-9-1-3 for 38 points. Radio - live with Bob Crawford on ESPN Radio 1410 and on the web at: Hartford Wolf Pack || hartfordwolfpack.com or watch on B2 Network! Go to Hartford Wolf Pack || hartfordwolfpack.com for details.

Injury Report:

Dale Purinton - fractured right foot (2-3 weeks).

Jake Taylor - clavicle/shoulder surgery (one month).

Recent Transactions:

Ryan Callahan - recalled by the New York Rangers from the Wolf Pack December 19 and returned

December 20.

Al Montoya - recalled by the New York Rangers from the Wolf Pack December 19 and returned December

20.

Brad Isbister - recalled by the New York Rangers from the Wolf Pack December 20 and returned December

23.

Jed Ortmeyer - recalled from the Wolf Pack by the New York Rangers December 23.

Bryce Lampman - recalled from the Wolf Pack by the New York Rangers December 26.

Mark Lee - recalled by the Wolf Pack from loan to Charlotte (ECHL) December 26.

Ryan Constant - recalled by the Wolf Pack from loan to Charlotte (ECHL) December 26.

Zdenek Bahensky - recalled by the Wolf Pack from loan to Charlotte (ECHL) December 26.

Pack Tracks:

After a two-week break, "Wolf Pack Confidential", the Wolf Pack's weekly hour-long Tuesday-night talk show, will return to Little Mark's Big Barbecue, located at 279 West Main St. (Rt. 44) in Avon, this Tuesday, January 2. Scheduled to join host Bob Crawford for that edition are Frank Lessard and Dane Byers. Wolf Pack Confidential airs from 7-8 PM and can be heard live on ESPN Radio 1410 and on-line at hartfordwolfpack.com.

The 96.5 TIC Acoustic Café - Volume VI CD, featuring the music of some of today's most popular musical artists, recorded acoustically, is now on sale at all Big Y World Class Markets, FYE and Strawberries locations, as well as at the new Hartford Wolf Pack "Pack Shop" in the Hartford 21 Mall surrounding the Civic Center. Net proceeds from the sale of the CD will benefit the charitable efforts of the Hartford Wolf Pack Community Foundation. The retail price of the CD is only $9.65, and it includes cuts from Staind, KT Tunstall, The Fray, Five for Fighting, Goo Goo Dolls, Barenaked Ladies, Anna Nalick, James Blunt, Nick Lachey and Smash Mouth. Each CD includes a voucher worth $16.50 for a free ticket to see a Wednesday night or Sunday night Wolf Pack game during the 2006-07 season.

The Wolf Pack's new "Pack Shop" is located in the newly-renovated Hartford 21 Mall surrounding the Civic Center. The Pack Shop is open for business 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, as well as two hours prior to and one hour after each and every Wolf Pack home game, including Saturdays and Sundays! The Pack Shop features a Wolf Pack hockey rink-tiled replica floor and offers a full line of Wolf Pack merchandise and special 10th Anniversary items. Stop by and check it out today!

Individual tickets for Wolf Pack games are on sale now at the Hartford Civic Center Box Office and all Ticketmaster locations including Macy's at the Buckland Hills Mall and at the Westfarms Mall. 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.
 
#13 ·
Daigneault dazzles again as Bears win 4-1

The BEARS maintained the club's hold on first place in the East Division Wednesday night at GIANT Center, defeating the Phantoms 4-1. HERSHEY now leads second place Norfolk by two points and third place Wilkes-Barre/Scranton by three points in the ultra-tight divisional race.

HERSHEY broke on top late in the first period when Chad Wiseman picked up his eighth goal of the season. The marker at 15:17 was unassisted, and gave the BEARS a 1-0 lead heading into first intermission. HERSHEY fired 11 shots at Phantoms goaltender Martin Houle, while Philadelphia managed 11 shots against Maxime Daigneault.

The BEARS would add to the lead through the second period despite only eight shots on goal. Joey Tenute would score his sixth goal of the year from Tomas Fleischmann at 9:36 to run the score out to 2-0. Kyle Wilson scored his third goal in less than 24 hours, notching his eighth of the season at 17:12 of the second. With two second period goals, the BEARS took a commanding 3-0 lead into the final period.

In the third, Phantoms forward Tony Voce broke up Daigneault's shutout 34 seconds into the final period with a goal from Mark Cullen. The score would stay 3-1 until Quintin Laing scored his second empty net goal in as many nights to round out the scoring.

Notes: Dean Arsene missed the game due to injuries suffered during Tuesday's game in Bridgeport. He is listed as day-to-day. The win for Daigneault was his 10th of the season, and his third in four decisions since Frederic Cassivi was injured December 20. The BEARS became the first team to reach 50 points in the Eastern Conference with the win. A crowd of 10,635 attended the game, HERSHEY'S third sellout at GIANT Center this season.
 
#14 ·
P-Bruins Fall to Admirals 6-3

Norfolk, VA - The Providence Bruins fell to the Norfolk Admirals 6-3 Wednesday evening at The Scope. The P-Bruins got goals from Ben Walter, T.J. Trevelyan and Kris Versteeg.

In the opening period, the Admirals struck twice within 1:06 to take the early 2-0 lead. At the 5:42 mark Bryan Bickell opened up the scoring with Adam Burish and Jonas Nordqvist getting the assists. At the 6:48 mark Carl Corazzini tallied his 15th goal of the season with Cam Baker and Matt Keith recording the assists. The P-Bruins bounced back within one at the 13:56 mark of the opening period. Bobby Allen sent a pass from the neutral zone to Trevelyan. Skating down the right wing, Trevelyan sent a centering pass to Walter parked in the slot. He lifted the puck over the left shoulder of Admirals netminder Corey Crawford and into the net. The P-Bruins went into the first intermission trailing 2-1.

In the second period, the Admirals did all the scoring starting at the 13:05 mark. Burish took a shot and P-Bruins goaltender Philippe Sauve made the save, but the rebound went right to Adam Berti and he scored. Colin Fraser had the second assist. Only 29 seconds later Norfolk took the 4-1 lead. This time it was Fraser putting home the puck off another shot from Burish. Berti tallied the second assist. The Admirals wrapped up the second period scoring at the 17:06 mark with Berti's second goal of the period. Fraser and Burish recorded the assists as Norfolk went into the second intermission with the 5-1 lead.

The P-Bruins pulled within two goals in the third period. Only 1:03 into the final period Trevelyan scored his seventh goal of the season with Walter and Martins Karsums recording the assists. Coming off the power play the P-Bruins scored at the 11:33 mark. Versteeg had a breakaway and snuck the puck past Crawford between his skate and the post. David Krejci and Pascal Pelletier tallied the assists. The Admirals added an empty net goal at the 18:37 mark from Martin St. Pierre with assists going to Bickell and Brian Bochenski as Norfolk went on to the 6-3 victory.

Sauve stopped 32 of 37 shots for the P-Bruins, while Crawford made 38 saves for the Admirals. Providence was 0 for 6 on the power play, while Norfolk went 0 for 3 on the man-advantage.

The P-Bruins continue their eight game road trip Friday, December 29 against the Philadelphia Phantoms at Wachovia Spectrum at 7:05 p.m. The P-Bruins return home to the Dunkin' Donuts Center Friday, January 5 to take on the Worcester Sharks at 4:05 p.m. For tickets call the team ticket office at (401) 273-5000 or log onto the team website at Providence Bruins - Free Give-A-Way Fridays.
 
#15 ·
Manchester Torches Lowell To Move Into First Place

LOWELL, MA - The Manchester Monarchs took control of first place in the Atlantic Division with a 3-1 victory over the Lowell Devils in front of 3,895 fans at the Tsongas Arena on Wednesday night.

Manchester (16-10-6-1) is in first place in the Atlantic Division with 39 points. Lowell (16-14-2-1) is in third place in the Atlantic Division with 35 points.

Lowell scored first, followed by three unanswered tallies by the Monarchs. Right wing Aaron Voros scored his fourth goal of the season at 12:57 of the first period to give the Devils a 1-0 lead. While on the power play, Lowell cycled the puck from defenseman Olli Malmivaara to right wing Barry Tallackson. Voros picked up the puck and finished off the play by putting it past Monarchs goaltender Jason LaBarbera.

Devils left wing Ryan J. Murphy was awarded a penalty shot at 3:20 of the second period but was denied by LaBarbera.

Right wing Mike Hoffman collected his fifth goal of the season at 5:28 of the second period to even the score at 1-1. Center Patrick O'Sullivan carried the puck down the left wing and behind the net eyeing the perfect pass. O'Sullivan handed the puck off to Monarchs right wing Ryan C. Murphy who sent it to the net. Hoffman stood on the doorstep and jammed the puck past Devils goaltender Frank Doyle.

Defenseman T.J. Kemp gave Manchester the lead at 5:57 of the third period when he scored his third goal of the season. O'Sullivan sent a pass through the crease and found Kemp by the left post. The rookie defenseman one-timed the pass to give the Monarchs a 2-1 lead. Right wing John Zeiler earned an assist on the Monarchs second goal of the night.

Monarchs left wing Jeff Giuliano scored the insurance goal at 9:27 of the final stanza. Right wing Konstantin Pushkarev carried the puck through the Devils zone. Pushkarev fed the puck to Giuliano in the left face-off circle for the one-timer that snuck through Doyle's legs. Center Matt Ryan collected an assist on Giuliano's third tally of the season.

LaBarbera earned his 15th victory of the season with 28 saves. Doyle took the loss stopping 35 shots.

Manchester went 0-for-6 on the power play. Lowell was 1-for-7 with the man advantage.

The Monarchs return to the Verizon Wireless Arena to host the Worcester Sharks at 7:35 p.m. on Friday, December 29. Catch all of the play-by-play action of Monarchs hockey with Ken Cail on the Monarchs Radio Network WGIR-AM 610 and at -= Manchester Monarchs Hockey =- Home Page. Watch the game live on B2 Networks for just $6 per game. Log onto -= Manchester Monarchs Hockey =- Home Page and click on the link to B2 Networks ten minutes prior to each Monarchs game to watch the game live!
 
#16 ·
Phantoms fall to Bears

HERSHEY, PA - The Hershey Bears jumped out to a 3-0 cushion and fought their way to a 4-1 win over the Philadelphia Phantoms on Wednesday night at the GIANT Center. The game marked the 900th professional appearance for Phantoms captain John Slaney.

The Bears started the game's scoring at 15:17 of the first period on a solo act by Chad Wiseman. He carried the puck into the Phantoms zone down the right wing side and snapped a wrist shot past the stick side of Martin Houle for the unassisted goal that gave the Bears a 1-0 advantage.

Joey Tenute made it a 2-0 Hershey lead near the game's halfway point. He walked through the slot before firing a high wrister over two prone Phantoms defensemen and past Houle at 9:36.

The lead became 3-0 with 2:48 left in the second period. Kyle Wilson took a pass down low to the right of the net before stepping back in front of the goal line and firing a wrist shot past Houle.

Tony Voce put the Phantoms on the board 34 seconds into the third period. Niko Dimitrakos came down the left wing and dropped the puck to Mark Cullen. Cullen, in turn, played a half-shot, half-pass to the back post, where Voce was waiting to slam it home.

Quentin Laing ended the affair with an empty netter with 18 seconds remaining.

Houle took the loss for the Phantoms, stopping 25 of 28 Hershey shots. Maxime Daigneault stopped 37 of 38 shots in earning the win for Hershey.

Slaney's career now includes 369 games played for the Phantoms. He's played a total of 576 games in the American Hockey League and 268 in the NHL, with the rest coming in the now-defunct International Hockey League.

The Phantoms return to the Wachovia Spectrum on Friday, December 29 to host the Providence Bruins, and will also host the Lowell Devils on Saturday, December 30 at 7:05. 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.
 
#17 ·
Rivermen Doubled up 4-2 at Home by Milwaukee

Peoria, IL (December 27, 2006) - After a uneventful first half of the contest between the Peoria Rivermen and the Milwaukee Admirals, the Rivermen were left behind by the steaming Admirals, who struck for four goals en route to a 4-2 win in front of 3,525 on Wednesday night at Carver Arena.

There was some excitement just 17 seconds after the opening face-off, when Peoria defenseman Doug Lynch and Milwaukee left wing Kelsey Wilson dropped the gloves.

The Admirals registered the first goal of the game at 14:43 of the second stanza on center Jason Guerriero's seventh marker of the year. Right wing Rich Peverley barreled down the right wing in the Peoria zone, cut in underneath the Rivermen defense but was stopped by Peoria netminder Marek Schwarz. Schwarz, though, was unable to cover up the puck, which allowed Guerriero to dart in from the bottom of the right face-off circle to send a backhand over the outstretched left pad of the Peoria netminder.

The Rivermen thought they had tied the game late in the middle session on a slap shot from the top of the left face-off circle from left wing Peter Sejna. Unfortunately for Peoria, there was inconclusive on-ice evidence to support a Peoria goal.

Milwaukee increased its lead to 2-0 on some beautiful moves by center Kim Staal at 4:12 of the final frame. Center Cal O'Reilly fed the puck from the right-wing corner to Staal, who was at the right face-off dot. Staal skated toward the net and faked a wrist shot that sent Schwarz to the ice, allowing Staal to switch to his backhand to slide the puck into the vacated net. The goal was Staal's third marker of the season.

The Admirals registered another goal at 8:56 of the third period on defenseman Mikko Lehtonen's third tally of the year. After taking a pass from O'Reilly, Lehtonen began at center point, skated to the top of the left face-off circle and launched a shot over the right shoulder of Schwarz.

Less than two minutes later, Milwaukee went up 4-0 on a short-handed tally at 10:38 of the third session. Left wing Patrick Leahy took the puck from the neutral zone and skated down the right wing boards of the Peoria in behind the net, taking the lone Rivermen defender with him. Once on the left side of the goal, Leahy found a wide-open right wing Bracken Kearns in the right face-off circle for a one-time shot past Schwarz for his third marker of the 2006-07 campaign.

The Rivermen were finally able to get on the board on a power play goal, their fifth in two games, at 11:25 of the third period. Defenseman Roman Polak began the play at the right point and fired a shot cross-ice to center Trent Whitfield at the top of the left face-off circle. Whitfield dished it to the right slot for left wing Charles Linglet, who tapped it over the left pad of Milwaukee goaltender Karl Goehring on the backhand. For Linglet, it was his 15th goal of the year.

Peoria netted one last goal with an extra attacker at 18:37 of the final period. Left wing Peter Sejna, who extended his point streak to six games, blasted a shot from the right point that was redirected through the legs of Goehring by Linglet, who was camped in the slot. It was the second goal of the contest for Linglet, who has a team-leading 16 this season.

The Rivermen lost their second game in a row at home and continue their stretch of five games in six days with a contest at home against the Chicago Wolves on Friday, December 29. Game time is 7:30 p.m. It is Ameren Mouse Pad night for the first 2,500 fans.
 
#18 ·
Checking Line Pushes Norfolk Past Providence

NORFOLK, VA - The checking line of Adam Berti, Colin Fraser and Adam Burish led the Norfolk Admirals (22-7-4-1) past the Providence Bruins (15-13-1-2) 6-3 on Wednesday night at Scope.

The Admirals got on the board first on a play that began with a Jonas Nordqvist steal in the attacking zone. Nordqvist got the puck to Bryan Bickell in the slot, and Bickell buried the puck into the back of the net at 5:42 of the first period. Burish assisted on the play for his first pro assist.

The lead doubled just over a minute later. Carl Corazzini collected a rebound behind the Providence net and sent a backhanded wraparound inside the post and past netminder Bruins goaltender Philippe Sauve's right leg at 6:48.

The Bruins narrowed their gap to one goal seven minutes later. A Providence pass bounced through a Norfolk defender's legs and onto the tape of Nate Walter. Walter sent a shot over Admirals netminder Corey Crawford's left leg and into the net at 13:56.

The Berti-Fraser-Burish line took command of the game in the second period. Midway through the period, Fraser picked up the puck behind the Bruins' net and centered it toward the slot. Berti sent a one-time chip shot over Sauve at 13:05.

Twenty-nine seconds later, Fraser was the recipient of a crisp feed himself. Burish took a shot from the right circle that Sauve stopped. Burish picked up his own rebound in the goalmouth and sent it across the slot to Fraser, who scored at 13:34.

Berti notched his second goal of the game four minutes later. Burish collected his franchise-record tying fourth assist when his shot from the right wing was stopped, but not frozen, by Sauve. Berti found the rebound and sent it home to give Norfolk a 5-1 lead at 17:06.

Providence used third period goals by T.J. Trevelyan at 1:03 and Kris Versteeg at 11:33 to draw to within two goals of the Admirals. However, Martin St. Pierre sealed the 6-3 Norfolk victory with an empty-net tally at 18:37.

Crawford (41 shots, 38 saves) earned his 18th win of the season. Sauve (37 shots, 32 saves) was saddled with the loss.

The Admirals were 0-3 on the power play. Providence was 0-6. The Admirals have not allowed a power play goal in five games (29-29) and are 35-36 (97.2%) in their last six games.

With the empty-net tally, St. Pierre extended his scoring streak to eight games (7g, 10a) and Brandon Bochenski, who assisted on the goal, stretched his franchise-record scoring streak to 14 games (12g, 19a).

Norfolk next faces off against the Lowell Devils on Friday night at Scope at 7:15.

Three Stars:

1. Adam Berti - NOR

2. Adam Burish - NOR

3. Colin Fraser - NOR
 
#19 ·
Manchester Shuts Down Devils, 3-1

Lowell, MA - Jason LaBarbera made 28 saves to lead the Manchester Monarchs (16-10-6-1) to a 3-1 victory over the Lowell Devils (16-14-2-1) at the Tsongas Arena Wednesday night.

Lowell lit the lamp first on the night, despite a strong start for the Monarchs. Aaron Voros potted his fourth of the season at 12:57 on the power play to make it 1-0. Voros became the 13th player to record a power play tally for the Devils this season with the goal. Shots finished even at 14 apiece, despite an early 8-2 advantage for Manches! ter.

The Devils had a chance to extend the lead early in the second when Ryan Murphy was hauled down by a Monarchs player on a breakaway. He was awarded the first penalty shot, for or against, in Devils history. LaBarbera was equal to the task, however, and just a couple minutes later Manchester tied the game. Mike Hoffman scored his fifth of the season at 5:28 to make it 1-1.

Manchester put the game away in the third period. Rookie D T.J. Kemp and Jeff Giuliano scored at 5:57 and 9:27, respectively, to put the Devils in a 3-1 hole, and LaBarbera made it stand. Frank Doyle suffered the loss between the pipes for the Devils, stopping 35 shots on the night. The win put the Monarchs in first place in the Atlantic Division, one point ahead of the Portland Pirates, who were idle tonight.

The Devils hit the road for their next four games, starting with the Norfolk Admirals Friday night at 7:15 p.m. They return home for a pair of matches against the Philadelphia Phantoms on Friday, January 12th and Sunday, January 14th. Sunday's game is Red Sox Night. Meet Wally the Green Monster and win Sox prizes during the game. There is also a post-game skate, free to everyone in attendance, courtesy of Jeanne D'Arc Credit Union.

All Devils games, home and away, can be heard on WCAP 980AM with the Voice of the Devils, Ryan Johnston, or online through B2 Networks on The Official Website of the Lowell Devils. For more information or to reserve your seats for this game, call the Devils office at (978) 458-PUCK.
 
#20 ·
Houston finishes off first-place Chicago

ROSEMONT, Ill. - Mattias Weinhandl tallied a goal and two assists, Josh Harding made 38 saves, and defenseman Shawn Belle scored the deciding shootout goal for the second time in as many nights, as the Houston Aeros rallied from a two-goal deficit to earn a rare win at Rosemont Arena, 4-3 over the Chicago Wolves. Jason Morgan and Roman Voloshenko each scored a power play goal for the Aeros (14-15-0-3), who have won four of five overall and snapped a six-game losing streak against the Wolves. Houston improved to 6-16-3-2 in its last 27 trips to Allstate Arena and moved within three points of fifth-place Iowa.

Houston is next in San Antonio on Friday. The Aeros return home Saturday, when they play host to the Rampage at 7:35 p.m. For that game, get $20 center ice seats (normally $30) or $15 corner seats (normally $22). This offer is only available through the Aeros office at 713.974.PUCK beginning at 8 a.m. Thursday.

Darren Haydar had a goal and two assists to move his AHL record point streak to 34 games, and former Aero Cory Larose posted a goal and a helper for Chicago (24-7-1-2), which leads the West Division by 11 points and is 6-0-0-2 in its last eight. After Weinhandl apparently gave Houston a victory with less than two minutes left in regulation, AHL leading goal scorer Brett Sterling forced overtime. Fred Brathwaite stopped 41 shots, but allowed four-of-five Aeros to score in the shootout.

Three minutes into the game, Harding robbed Haydar with his glove on a breakaway.

Aeros rookie standout Benoit Pouliot was awarded a penalty shot at the 4:15 mark when he was dragged down on a breakaway. But the rookie misplayed the puck and didn't get a shot on Brathwaite.

Larose tallied his eighth goal of the season at 9:11 of the first to put Chicago on top. Haydar took a turnover deep in the Houston zone and fed a cutting Larose, who deposited the puck into the back of the net.

Weinhandl hit Brathwaite's mask with a high shot with the teams 4-on-4 late in the first.

Haydar then scored his 20th goal - seventh on the power play - with 17 seconds left in the first. Haydar got a piece of Mark Popovic's point blast, but Haydar hopped on the rebound and slid it by Harding.

Chicago has outscored its opponents in the first period by a league-best 50-26 margin.

The Aeros took it to the Wolves in the second period, owning a 12-8 shot advantage while scoring the lone goal - although it could have been more.

Early in the second, Brathwaite robbed Peter Olvecky on a breakaway. Seconds later, Weinhandl set up Voloshenko at the right doorstep, and Brathwaite went post-to-post to make the save.

But Voloshenko netted his fourth of the season, with three seconds left on the power play, at the midway point of the middle period to cut the Chicago lead in half. Erik Reitz shot well wide of the net, and Voloshenko redirected the puck by Brathwaite.

The Aeros got four minutes of consecutive power play time but couldn't pull even. After Chicago's Brian Fahey rammed Ryan Hamilton into the boards head first with no call, Aeros 6-foot-7 rookie wrestled with Chicago's 6-foot-7 enforcer Boris Valabik. Pouliot exchanged punches with Fahey at the end of the period, but was also given a game misconduct for not having his jersey tied down.

Harding stopped Haydar early in the third on a mini breakaway. Haydar threw a punch at Reitz, but and both went off. However, Reitz picked up a 10-minute misconduct as well.

The Aeros got 1:04 of 5-on-3 time after back-to-back penalties to Larose and Steve Martins before the period's halfway point. Six seconds after the Larose penalty expired, Morgan got credit for a power play goal when his shot went in the net off Chicago defenseman Brian Sipotz' skate. Morgan, who returned Tuesday after missing 22 games due to a call-up and a serious lower body injury, tallied his first goal of the season.

Harding helped keep the game tied with five minutes left, snaring Jordan LaVallee's drive.

Former Aero Kyle Wanvig, who scored two goals including the game-winner late in regulation last Friday at Toyota Center, snapped a shot just over the post two minutes later.

Weinhandl gave Houston its first lead of the night, with 1:47 left and the teams skating 4-on-4. Weinhandl picked off a pass at the Chicago blueline, went around a defender and fired a wrister by Brathwaite for his second goal with the Aeros, completing the three-point night.

After the faceoff, Sterling couldn't get a handle on Martins' pass through the crease.

However, the rookie forced overtime with 59 seconds remaining and Brathwaite off for the extra attacker. Haydar floated the puck at the net, and Harding made the initial save. But the puck fell below, and Sterling whacked it into the net for his 33rd goal of the season.

Sterling's goal marked the third extra attacker goal versus the Aeros in their last six games.

Chicago outshot Houston 3-1 in overtime, but neither team could score the winning goal.

Wolves head coach John Anderson elected to have the Aeros go first, and Voloshenko's shot was stopped by Brathwaite, who had to reach back to keep the puck from going over the line. Larose countered for Chicago, and Harding made the save on the low shot at the post.

Weinhandl, who carved out San Antonio rookie Josh Tordjman last night, did it again, going backhand-to-forehand to beat Brathwaite. Haydar went five-hole on Harding to even things up.

Matt Foy went top shelf and scored for Houston, and Kevin Doell banked the puck off Harding's pad and into the net.

Belle, a second-year defenseman who scored on his first shootout attempt last night, went over the blocker for his second goal in as many attempts. Alex Bourret, making his first attempt of the season, tried to go by Harding's pad, but the goalie made the save.

Morgan scored in Houston's last attempt, securing the victory. Houston improved to 4-3 in shootouts, while Chicago fell to 1-2. Six of the Aeros' 14 victories have been in come-from-behind fashion.

Houston finished 2-for-6 on the power play, while Chicago went 1-for-4.

Notes:

Not dressing for the Aeros were Dieter Kochan, Chris Ovington, Ben Thomson and Joey Tetarenko.

The Aeros loaned rookie center Alex Leavitt to ECHL Texas prior to the game. Leavitt led the ECHL in scoring last season while in Alaska.

Houston and Chicago played just their second OT/shootout game in their last 16 meetings. They once saw 14-of-20 games go to OT/shootout.

Aeros rookie Danny Irmen also missed a penalty shot last night at home against San Antonio.

Harding is 5-8-0 in his career against Chicago, and 58-29-6 versus the rest of the AHL. Three of his five victories have come in the shootout.

The Aeros improved to 13-5-0-2 when scoring three or more goals. They are 1-10-0-1 when scoring two or fewer.

Houston outscored Chicago 2-1 in the third period, just the second time the Aeros have "won" the third period in their last 10 games.

The Aeros are 6-4-0-3 in one-goal games.
 
#21 ·
Bulldogs take North Division lead

HAMILTON, ON - The Hamilton Bulldogs came from behind to defeat the Manitoba Moose 3-2 in a shootout on Wednesday night at Copps Coliseum. With the win, Hamilton (21-10-1-1) moves into first place in the North Division standings for the first time since April 10th, 2004, passing the Rochester Americans (21-8-1-0) who had previously held a 15 point lead on the 'Dogs on November 17th. The Bulldogs have now recorded at least one point in eight straight games, going 7-0-1-0 in that span.

With two goals in the first period, the Moose jumped out to a 2-0 lead. Nathan Smith was at the tail end of a tic-tac-toe passing play at the 4:32 mark when he one-timed a shot from the side of the crease on the power play for his eighth goal of the season. Alexandre Bolduc then posted his first goal of the season at 11:48, after an errant pass from behind the net deflected out to Bolduc in the slot.

The Bulldogs responded in the second period with two late goals to tie the game at 2-2. Duncan Milroy deflected Mathieu Biron's point shot on the power play at the 15:45 mark to cut the deficit to 2-1. Mikhail Grabovski also earned an assist on Milroy's team-leading 14th goal of the season. Jonathan Ferland tied the game 2-2, by redirecting Ryan O'Byrne's long-lead pass past Moose netminder Wade Flaherty. Goaltender Jaroslav Halak started the play to O'Byrne, whose pass, which came from behind centre-ice, was just within Ferland's reach. Ferland's blueline tip then took an unusual carom forward and somehow found the back of the net with just 1:24 left in the middle stanza.

After a scoreless third period and overtime, the game went to a shootout. Neither the Moose nor the Bulldogs could score on their first-three shootout attempts. After Halak stopped Manitoba's fourth attempt, Grabovski deked Manitoba goaltender Wade Flaherty to the forehand before pulling the puck to his backhand and depositing the puck to the bottom right corner of the net. Halak then went a perfect 5-for-5 in the shootout by stopping Manitoba's final shooter Mike Keane and sealing the win for Hamilton.

The Bulldogs return to action this Friday, December 29th at 7:30 p.m. when the Toronto Marlies 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.
 
#22 ·
Knights' comeback downs Rampage

SAN ANTONIO - The Rampage worked their way to a 2-0 lead in the first period but slowly saw the Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights take over allowing the Knights to capture a 4-3 win with 35 seconds left in regulation at the AT&T Center Wednesday night.

With a wide open net, Randall Gelech put the first dent in the scoreboard for the Rampage at the 7:16 mark in the opening period past a downed Curtis McElhinney. Jeff Taffe extended the Rampage lead 1:36 later when he connected with a pass from Bryan Helmer at the right wall and took a hard slap shot through a group of red jerseys into the left corner of the net. Taffe's power-play goal came off of a slashing minor by David Van der Gulik.

Omaha redeemed themselves in the second stanza with two power-play goals at the 12:17 and 17:39 marks to tie the game, but the Rampage's newest addition, Chris Ferraro, quickly regained the lead with a wrap-around goal at the 18-minute mark.

Less than five minutes into the final period, Andrei Taratukhin tied the game when he received a pass from Carsen Germyn at the right post for a five-on-three power-play goal. Taratukhin's second goal of the night and fifth on the season was the Knight's third power-play goal.

The Rampage killed off a 54-second five-on-three penalty, their second within three minutes.

With 35 seconds left to go in regulation, Taratukhin was able to catch a breakaway and passed the puck ahead to Eric Godard who tapped it in for the game-winner.

The Rampage play the Houston Aeros Friday at 7 p.m. at the AT&T Center and host their final Guy's Night Out where one lucky fan will win a trip for two to Las Vegas.
 
#23 ·
Knights Stun Rampage In Last Minute, 4-3

Eric Godard scored a shorthanded goal in the final minute of regulation to help the Omaha Ak-Sar-Ben Knights to a 4-3 come-from-behind win over the San Antonio Rampage at the AT&T Center. Andrei Taratukhin, who set up the game-winner, figured in on all four Knights' goals.

The Rampage seized the lead on a fortunate bounce at 7:16 of the first period. A shot from the point caromed off a crowd in front of Curtis McElhinney right to Randall Gelech. He hammered the puck into a half-open net for his seventh goal of the year.

San Antonio doubled its lead with a powerplay soon after the first goal. Bryan Helmer set up Jeff Taffe for a one-timer from the face-off circle that beat a screened McElhinney to make it 2-0 after one period.

The Knights used the powerplay to their advantage in the second period. With former UNO Maverick Bill Thomas in the penalty box, Tim Hambly slipped down the slot, took a pinpoint feed from Taratukhin and snapped a quick shot past goalie David LeNeveu for his first goal of the season.

Later in the period, the Knights went back on the powerplay and again they hit paydirt. Taratukhin won a face-off just inside the San Antonio blueline. Hambly gave the puck right back to him. Taratukhin split two defenders and beat LeNeveu over the glove hand to make it 2-2.

But just 21 seconds later, the Rampage had the lead back. Chris Ferraro got free behind the Knights' net and beat McElhinney with a wraparound shot to make it 3-2 after two.

The Knights came out with a determined effort in the third period, taking the play to the Rampage and drawing three straight minors. While on a five-on-three powerplay, Carsen Germyn sent a perfect cross-crease pass that Taratukhin fired past LeNeveu to tie the game at three.

Late in the third, the Knights got into penalty trouble. Germyn would receive a holding penalty at 18:19 but in the final minute of regulation, Taratukhin stole the puck in the Knights' zone, raced down the left wing and tossed a perfect pass to a streaking Godard who steered the puck past LeNeveu for his second goal of the year. It came with just 35 seconds remaining in the game.

The Rampage took an immediate time out and then pulled LeNeveu for the extra attacker, but they never got another shot on Brent Krahn who had started the third period in place of McElhinney. He stopped all seven shots he faced in the period to earn the win, his ninth of the year.

The win improves the Knights to 19-10-2-0, good for 40 points.

Three Stars: 1. Andrei Taratukhin (OMA) - 2 goals, 2 assists; 2. Tim Hambly (OMA) - 1 goal, 2 assists; 3. Jeff Taffe (SA) - 1 goal, 1 assist

The Ak-Sar-Ben Knights now return home to host Iowa on Friday, December 29th and Peoria on Saturday, December 30th. Both games start at 7:00 p.m. Friday's game marks the beginning of the "Kids' Weekend Celebration". Friday features an appearance by the ZOOperstars sponsored by Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and the Lozier Imax Theater. On Saturday, it's Kids' New Years with a post-game indoor fireworks show, the largest in Nebraska.

Tickets for all Ak-Sar-Ben Knights' games are on sale at the Omaha Civic Auditorium box office Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tickets also are available through all Ticketmaster outlets and by phone at (402) 422-1212. Kids 12 and under get in free with a paid adult on tickets purchased after 5:00 p.m. Other restrictions apply.
 
#24 ·
Moose earn three of hour, but can't gain ground on Hamilton

MOOSE EARN THREE OF FOUR, BUT CAN'T GAIN GROUND ON HAMILTON

The Moose earned three of a possible four points in week 12, as they took on their North Division rival Hamilton Bulldogs in back-to-back games at the MTS Centre. The Moose went into the two-game series trailing the Bulldogs by one point in the standings. Even though they were able to secure three of four points in the two games by virtue of an overtime victory and a shootout loss, they allowed Hamilton to earn the same 3-of-4 points to maintain their hold on second place. The series leaves the Moose third in the North Division standings at 15-13-4-3 for a total of 37 points. The Moose play a visit to Copps Coliseum this week and will look to cut into Hamilton's second-place lead.

Wednesday night the Moose played the first of back-to-back contests versus the Bulldogs at the MTS Centre. Brandon Reid was the hero of the day as he scored with just :14 left in overtime to give the Moose the valuable extra point in the standings and move them into a temporary tie for second place in the North Division standings. (see the recap)

Thursday night the two teams faced-off again in the final game for the Moose before the Christmas break. For the second straight game the Moose and Bulldogs needed more than 60:00 to decide a winner. This time not even OT could decide things as the Moose failed to capitalize on a powerplay in the extra frame. The two teams went to a shootout where it took ten shooters from each side to finally declare a victor. Matt D'agostini scored the game-winner as he roofed a shot over the glove of Wade Flaherty. Captain Mike Keane had a chance to tie it, but Yann Danis made a nice save with his left pad to steal the extra point for the visitors and give them back sole possession of second place in the standings. (see the recap)

The Moose wil play back-to-back road games in Hamilton and Toronto on Dec. 27/06 and Dec. 28/06 before returning home to host Syracuse in their final two games of 2006. The Moose have special indoor fireworks planned for the annual New Year's Eve game, and have opened the upper bowl for the first time this season. The team is expecting a complete sell-out as people look to kick-off their New Year's with the Moose. Game time is 4:00PM CDT at the MTS Centre.

MOOSE NOTES

Moose shootout record: The Manitoba Moose were involved in their third shootout of the season last Thursday versus the Hamilton Bulldogs - a 4-3 loss at the MTS Centre. The Moose are now 0-3 in shootouts after losing their first two shootouts of the season, Oct. 26/06 to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins 3-2 at the MTS Centre and then Nov. 04/06 to the Grand Rapids Griffins 5-4 at the Blue Cross Arena. Drew MacIntyre was the goaltender in the first two shootouts, allowing four goals on nine attempts, while Wade Flaherty saw his first shootout action of the season versus the Bulldogs, in a ten shooter marathon. Flaherty allowed four goals on ten attempts in the loss. Brandon Reid currently leads the team in shootout conversions, having scored on 2-of-4 attempts this season. Last season the Moose were involved in nine shootouts finishing with a record of 4-5.

Reid continues hot play at Spengler: Brandon Reid started his 2006-07 Moose campaign slowly, registering only six points in his first 17 games played this year. However in his last 14 games, Reid has scored seven goals and nine assists for 16 points vaulting him into fourth in team-scoring. Reid is currently on a five-game-goal-scoring streak, the longest of the season for any Moose player. He now has points in eight of his last nine games. Reid was invited to join Team Canada at the Spengler Cup beginning last nigth (Dec. 26/06) in Davos, Switzerland, where Reid carried his strong play into the tournament scoring a goal, the first of the game for Team Canada. Reid was a spark plug all over the ice, creating several good scoring chances on the night, as Team Canda defeated Mora IK 4-3 in a shootout.

Record vs the North: With last week's match-ups against the Bulldogs, the Moose began a 10-game stretch against North Division opponents. They still face Hamilton three more times during this 10-game stretch. So far this season, the Moose have played 14 games versus North Division opponents and are currently 6-5-1-2 in those games. The Moose are 3-3-1-1 on the road this season versus their North Division opponents. Last season, Manitoba was 23-11-5-5 within their own divison.

UPCOMING OPPONENTS

The Moose will look to cut into Hamilton's hold of second place as they tangle with the Bulldogs one more time on Dec. 27/06. The Moose and Bulldogs split their first two meetings at Copps Coliseum, with Hamilton winning the first matchup 5-3 on Oct. 6/06, and the Moose winning at Copps Coliseum for the first time in over two years with a 5-4 victory on Nov. 21/06. The Moose currently hold a record of 2-1-0-1 versus the Bulldogs this season.

The Moose will play their second game of the season versus the Toronto Marlies at Ricoh Coliseum Dec. 28/06. The last time these two clubs faced each other in Toronto the Moose scored three first period goals and then added singles in the second and third to hold off the Marlies 5-2, enroute to their first victory of the 2006-07 season. Last season the Moose held a 3-0-1-0 record on the road vs the Marlies, winning in a shootout in their last meeting at Ricoh Coliseum.

The Moose will host the last place Syracuse Crunch for their final two games of 2006 on Dec. 30/06 and Dec. 31/06 at the MTS Centre. The Moose have only played the Crunch once this season, a 1-0 shutout victory at Onondaga County War Memorial at Oncenter on Nov. 18/06. Jason Jaffray scored with :05 left in regulation to steal the points for the Moose, and Dany Sabourin, down with the Moose on a conditioning stint earned the first shutout of the season for Manitoba in the victory. The Moose will face the Crunch seven more times this season.

PLAYER OF THE WEEK NOMINEE

#10 Brandon Reid - Center

Brandon Reid appeared in both games for the Moose this week, collecting two goals and one assist for three points including the game-winning-overtime goal versus the Hamilton Bulldogs on Dec. 20/06... As a result, Reid now sits fourth in team scoring with 10 goals and 11 assists for 21 points in 30 games played...Reid is currently on a five-game-goal-scoring streak, the longest of the season for any Moose player, and has added two assists in that five-game stretch...Reid was recently invited to play for Team Canada at the Spengler Cup in Davos, Switzerland starting Dec. 26/06, becoming the third Moose representative at the Spengler Cup in consecutive seasons, as goaltender Alex Auld helped backstop Canada to a silver medal in 2004, and defenceman Brett Skinner also won silver with Team Canada in 2005 where he was actually a teammate of Reid's....
 
#25 ·
Avalanche recall River Rats D Kyle Cumiskey

ALBANY, NY - The Albany River Rats today announced that defenseman Kyle Cumiskey has been recalled by the Colorado Avalanche. Defenseman Michael Vernace has been recalled from Arizona of the Central Hockey League to take Cumiskey's place on the River Rats roster.

Cumiskey has recorded four goals and 12 assists with 16 penalty minutes and a plus-3 rating in 28 games with the River Rats this season. The 20-year-old Abbotsford, B.C., native ranks first on the River Rats and is tied for 17th in the AHL in scoring among defensemen.

Vernace has three goals and 11 assists with 20 penalty minutes in 24 games with Arizona this season. The 20-year-old Toronto, Ontario native finished second among Ontario Hockey League defenseman in scoring last season with 72 points (10 goals, 62 assists) in 68 games with Brampton. He was acquired by Colorado from San Jose in exchange for a conditional draft pick June 1, 2006.

The River Rats, who have won six of their last eight games and are 8-3-1-0 in their last 12, return to action Friday, December 29 against the defending Calder Cup champion Hershey Bears at 7 p.m. at Pepsi Arena (Times Union Center effective January 1). Tickets for Friday's game as well as all River Rats home games are available at the Pepsi Arena Box Office, by calling 1-800-30-EVENT or online at Pepsi Arena . For information on River Rats ticket packages, please call (518) 487-2244 or visit Albany River Rats.
 
#26 ·
Pens ‘Snack Packs' available

WILKES-BARRE, PA - The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins are offering their 'Snack Pack' ticket package now through the end of the season.

Bring a group of 20 or more to any upcoming Penguins game, and have the option of adding a hot dog & soda package for each ticket for one low price.

Pens 'Snack Packs' are available with Red or Gold zone seating and start at just $19.75 per person. Fans can call 208-7367 for more information on the Pens 'Snack Pack' package, or visit the fan assistance booth at any Penguins home game.

Individual and group tickets for all Penguins home games, as well as special ticket packages, are on sale now. For ticket information, contact the Penguins at 570-208-7367.
 
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