[truebluefan]

Checkers finish light week 0-1-0

CHARLOTTE, NC - The Charlotte Checkers went 0-1-0 last week at they faced the Reading Royals at home on Thursday. The Checkers were defeated in a shutout by the Royals 3-0 as goaltender Alex Westlund took the loss for Charlotte stopping 25 of 28 shots on goal. At the end of the week, Ryan Constant, Zdenek Bahensky, and Mark Lee were recalled to the Hartford Wolf Pack of the AHL.

CHECKERS THIS SEASON

15-11-1, 31 pts

LAST WEEK

0-1-0, 0 pts

Thursday, December 21, 2006 vs. Reading Royals, L, 3-0 The Charlotte Checkers were defeated in a shutout 3-0 by the Reading Royals Thursday night at St. Lawrence Homes Home Ice at Charlotte Bobcats Arena.

GAMES THIS WEEK Thursday, December 28, 2006 vs. South Carolina Stingrays, 7:00 ET Saturday, December 30, 2006 vs. Augusta Lynx, 7:30 ET

CHECKERS NEWS

- Mark Lee is second in the league at the top scorer with 39 points (12g, 27a).

- Lee is fourth in the league with his 28 assists.

- Lee is third in the league with 16 power play assists.

- Bruce Graham is fourth in the league with 17 goals.

- Jamieson is fifth in the league with 3 game winning goals.

- Alex Westlund is eighth in the league with a 2.56 GAA

- Westlund is third in the league with a .925 save percentage

*indicates Rookie

CHECKERS LEADERS

Goals: Graham, Bruce (17)

Assists: Lee, Mark (27)

Points: Lee, Mark (39)

Plus/Minus: Bellefeuille, Blake (+4)

PIM: Nightingale, Adam (66)

Wins: Holt, Chris (9)

GAA: Westlund, Alex (2.56)

Save Pct.: Westlund, Alex (.925)

CHECKERS BROADCAST INFO

Tune into all Charlotte Checkers away games as they broadcast on TEAMLINE. Fans can click the TEAMLINE logo on the Checkers website, The Official Site of The Charlotte Checkers :, or listen on the phone at 800-846-4700, code 2820. Fans can also watch several games this season on the B2 Network. Click the B2 Network logo on the Checkers website to view a list of available games as well as watch the game live. On the web or on the phone, listen as the voice of the Checkers, Tim Donelli, brings you all of the Checkers action.

 

[truebluefan]

Lee, Bahensky, Constant recalled to Hartford

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The Charlotte Checkers announced that Mark Lee, Zdenek Bahensky and Ryan Constant have been recalled to the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League.

Lee, who was named a 2007 ECHL All-Star last week, was third in the league with 39 points and fourth with 27 assists. The 22-year-old had registered 12 goals and 27 assists for 39 points in 27 games with the Checkers, 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 Checkers are at home at 7:00 pm Thursday vs. the South Carolina Stingrays. The first 3,000 fans will receive a limited-edition Checkers trading card set presented by LastMinuteGolfer.com. Tomorrow's game is also a "Wet Your Whistle Weekday" featuring $2 Bud Lights. Tickets for tomorrow's game can be purchased by calling 704.342.4.ICE or purchase and print your tickets at home by visiting Charlotte Bobcats Arena :: Home.

 

[truebluefan]

Wildcatters Weekly

Beaumont, TX (December 27, 2006) The Texas Wildcatters enter the week with the best winning percentage in the ECHL and an 18-6-2-0 record after splitting a two game series on the road with the Pensacola Ice Pilots. Texas is tied for the American Conference and South Division lead with 38 points with the Florida Everblades.

This Week's Games

Thursday, December 28 at 7:05 p.m., Friday, December 29 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, December 30 at 7:05 p.m. vs. Florida

The Wildcatters return home for a six game home stand which begins with a three game series against the Florida Everblades on December 28. This is the first visit of the season for the Everblades to Southeast Texas as all five meetings have been played at Southwest Florida. Texas has defeated Florida three out of five times this season, including a 3-0 shutout on December 2. The Everblades are led by forwards Vince Bellissimo, Reggie Berg and Brent McDonald. Goaltenders Craig Kowalski and David Shantz have split time for the 'Blades this season.

Last week - Wildcatters Split Two Game Series at Pensacola

Friday, December 22 at Pensacola 7-4 Loss

Travis Lisabeth and Dan Sullivan each scored two goals for Pensacola as the Ice Pilots defeated the Wildcatters (17-6-2-0) 7-4 in front of 2,426 at the Pensacola Civic Center. The Ice Pilots came out with a spirited effort as Lisabeth got the first of his two goals on the evening just 1:38 into the game. Leon Hayward tied things up at the eight minute mark of the first, but Pensacola added two more in the first from Lisabeth and Adam Taylor to go ahead 3 to 1. Texas dominated the second period as they out shot Pensacola 13 to 3, but could only muster one goal. Paul Albers scored at the 8:15 mark to cut the lead to 3 to 2. The Ice Pilots came out strong in the third as Rob Rankin scored just 37 seconds into the period, then Dan Sullivan scored his first of two on the night. It turned out to be the game winner as the Ice Pilots went on to win 7 to 4. Brandin Cote added his 15th goal of the season and Casey Lee scored his first professional goal in the loss. Colin Nicholson also scored his first professional point with an assist on Lee's goal. The seven goals were the most the 'Catters have allowed all season long. Goaltender Matt Yeats gave up five goals on 17 shots and Miroslav Kopriva relieved him in the third period, allowing one goal. Both teams finished the game 0 for 5 on the power play.

Saturday, December 23 at Pensacola 7-3 WIN

Mike Bayrack scored three goals in the second period for the hat trick as the Wildcatters (18-6-2-0) dominated Pensacola in front of 2,750 at the Pensacola Civic Center. Texas came out firing on all cylinders and took an early 1-0 lead at the 2:30 mark of period number one on Olivier Proulx's first goal of the night. In the second period, Mike Bayrack went to work, scoring three goals in under 13 minutes for his first hat trick of the season. Bayrack scored a shorthanded goal at the 3:52 mark of the second to make it 2-0. He added his second goal of the game which was on the power play to make it 3-0. Then, the third for the hat trick came at the 16:34 mark. It was the third hat trick for the Wildcatters this season. Kevin Baker and Daniel Sparre also had three goals in a game. Texas took a 4-0 lead into the third period. Brandin Cote scored under a minute into the third to make it 5-0. Pensacola would finally get on the board, but Leon Hayward responded with his 6th of the season and 3rd in as many games. Olivier Proulx would round out the scoring for the 'Catters as he got his second of the night and 11th of the year. Texas went on to win the game 7-3. Goaltender Miroslav Kopriva made 21 saves in the win. The 'Catters finished the game with four power play goals, going 4 for 10. Pensacola finished the game 2 for 8.

Holiday Hat Trick

The Wildcatters are offering the Holiday Hat Trick which allows fans to come see the 'Catters take on the red hot Florida Everblades on December 28, 29 and 30 for just $30. The package includes three tickets to the series. To purchase it, please call the Wildcatters at 409-951-5500.

Upcoming Promotions

Thursday, Dec. 28 - Buddy Night - Did you forget to buy your friend a Christmas gift? Bring a "buddy" to the game and get their ticket for half price. Have a great time with great company.

Friday, Dec. 29 - Black Out Night and Student Friday - Fans should wear black clothing to the game to make it a black out night at Ford Arena. Also, high school and college students can purchase tickets for just $10 with their student ID.

Saturday, Dec. 30 - Hydration Celebration - Getting ready to paint the town "red" at your New Year's celebration needs planning. Being hydrated is crucial and the Wildcatters are here to ensure you are fully hydrated before bringing in the New Year. The first 1,000 fans will receive an exclusive bottle of Wildcatters bottled water.

Future Home Games at Ford Arena

Thursday, Dec. 28 vs. Florida, 7:05 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 29 vs. Florida, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 30 vs. Florida, 7:05 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 5 vs. Columbia, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 6 vs. Columbia, 7:05 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 7 vs. Columbia, 2:05 p.m.

Wildcatters on the Air

ESPN Radio 1450 am The Ticket is the exclusive home for Texas Wildcatters Hockey all season long. Join the "Voice of the Wildcatters" Anthony Langella, Jr. for all the play-by-play action. The Wildcatters Warm-up show will begin 20 minutes prior to opening face-off. You can also catch the action at Welcome to WildcattersHockey.com by clicking on the listen to the ticket link on the left side of the home page. Select games are also available to view for a fee on the B2 Networks by clicking on the link at the left of the Wildcatters homepage.

Ticket Information

The Texas Wildcatters are the ECHL affiliate for the AHL's Houston Aeros. The next Wildcatters home game is on Thursday, December 28 vs. South Division rival, the Florida Everblades. Both teams are tied for the most points in the ECHL. Don't miss any hard-hitting Wildcatters hockey action. 2006-07 Season Tickets are still available. Wildcatters' season tickets start at just $9 per game and feature numerous benefits including free parking and discounted merchandise. Group discount plans are also available by calling (409) 951-5500. For single game tickets stop by the Ford Park Box Office, call (409) 951-5440 or log on to ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit the Wildcatters online at Welcome to WildcattersHockey.com.

 

[truebluefan]

Toledo Resigns P.J. Martin

(Toledo, Ohio) The Toledo Storm, ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks, announced today that they have resigned defenseman P.J. Martin.

Martin, the native of Haverhill, MA, saw time earlier this season with the Storm when he played a pair of games against Trenton. In the two contests vs. the Titans, he did not register a point, but did finish as a plus 1 with 4 penalty minutes. Over the previous 2 seasons, PJ has appeared in 88 Storm contests scoring 11 goals, while adding 27 assists. Last season, Martin started the year as Captain of the Storm prior to playing in 11 games with Lowell in the American Hockey League.

The Storm reunites with the Johnstown Chiefs TONIGHT at 7:05pm from Toledo Sports Arena. Great tickets for the game are still available by calling 419-691-0200 or online at the all-new ToledoStorm.com. Fans can hear all the action of the game LIVE online at The Toledo Storm - Great Team. Great Time. Fans can also watch the game LIVE via the B2 Network. Coverage of tonight's game begins 15 minutes prior to the opening face-off. Toledo Storm Hockey...Great Team, Great Time!

 

[truebluefan]

Hammond Returns to Falcons

Fresno, Calif. - The Fresno Falcons announced today that the team has signed left wing Brett Hammond to a contract for the remainder of the 2006-07 season.

Hammond sat out the first half of the season while he returned to school to complete his degree. Last season, the 26-year-old scored 12 goals and added 12 assists in 52 games. Hammond began his professional career with the Falcons at the end of the 2004-05 season, joining the team after completing his senior season at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.

During his four-year career campaign at Minnesota-Duluth, Hammond scored 66 points in 146 games. He was part of the UMD squad that advanced to the NCAA Frozen Four in 2003-04. Prior to joining UMD, Hammond played two seasons in the USHL with the Green Bay Gamblers, and was part of the club that captured the league championship in 1999-00.

The Falcons are back in action tonight, traveling to Stockton for a 7:00 p.m. face-off against the Thunder. Catch all of the play-by-play action on 1550 Sporting News Radio, starting with the Port of Subs Pre-Game Show at 6:40.

Fresno returns home on Friday, hosting Stockton at 7:30 p.m. The first 2,000 fans in attendance receive a free Falcons Toque courtesy of Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino, KSEE 24, and New Rock 104.1. Tickets for all Falcons home games can be purchased at the Save Mart Center Box Office, by phone at (559) 485-8497, on-line at Official Ticketmaster site. Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Arts, Theater, Family, Events, more, or at any TicketMaster outlet. All Falcons games can be heard on 1550 Sporting News Radio and on-line at fresnofalcons.com: Home starting with the Port of Subs Pre-Game Show 15 minutes prior to game time.

• Discuss this story on the ECHL message board...

 

[truebluefan]

Radio Broadcast Team Announced For All-Star Game 12/27/06 - ECHL (ECHL)

PRINCETON, N.J. - The ECHL announced that Mike Benton of the Stockton Thunder, Michael O'Brien of the Trenton Titans and Kevin Reiter of the Florida Everblades have been selected for the audio broadcast of the 2007 Rbk Hockey ECHL All-Star Game on Jan. 17 at Qwest Arena in Boise, Idaho.

The audio broadcast is produced by NHL Radio and will feature a play-by-play announcer, a color commentator and a roving reporter who will be ice level interviewing participants and others involved with the All-Star Game as well as representatives from the American Hockey League and the National Hockey League.

Radio stations and online audio options are being finalized and will be announced as soon as they are available.

The 15th Annual ECHL All-Star Game and the 10th Annual ECHL All-Star Skills Competition will be held at Qwest Arena in Boise, Idaho. The Skills Competition is Jan. 16 and the All-Star Game is Jan. 17.

Benton is in his second season as Media Relations Manager as well as play-by-play broadcaster for the Thunder. Benton also is the play-by-play announcer for the arenafootball2 league's Stockton Lightning and is co-host on AM-970 ESPN Radio's weekday "Mike and The Mouth" show. Prior to joining the Thunder, Benton had broadcasting stints with UC Riverside women's basketball and in Minor League Baseball with the Dayton Dragons and High Desert Mavericks. While in college at Azusa Pacific University Benton covered television play-by-play duties for the school's basketball broadcast, football play-by-play on the campus radio station and a reporting role on ESPN2's Los Angeles-area local "Valley Sports2" show. Benton graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies.

O'Brien is in his fourth season as Director of Public Relations and Broadcasting for the Titans. Prior to joining the Titans, O'Brien spent three years at the National Hockey League in New York, getting his start as a ticketing intern for the 2000 NHL All-Star game in Toronto. A native of Gladwyne, PA and a graduate of Boston College, O'Brien has also broadcasted high school football and basketball on WBCB-1490AM in Levittown, PA and as a producer in Allentown, PA for WFMZ-TV.

It is the second All-Star Game appearance for Reiter, who was a member of the audio broadcast team in 2003. Reiter is in his third season as Public Relations Manager and Broadcaster for the Florida Everblades and is in his sixth season as a broadcaster in the ECHL. Prior to joining the Everblades, the native of Medford, NJ spent three years as the voice of the ECHL's Roanoke Express. For six seasons Reiter also broadcasted minor league baseball with the Salem (VA) Avalanche and Wilmington (DE) Blue Rocks. Reiter received his bachelor's degree in broadcasting from Long Island University's C.W. Post Campus.

 

[truebluefan]

Mike Benton Named To ECHL All-Star Game's Radio Broadcast Team

STOCKTON, Calif. - Stockton Thunder play-by-play broadcaster Mike Benton has been selected to join the radio broadcast announcing team of the 2007 RBK Hockey ECHL All-Star Game in Boise, Idaho, Thunder team president Dan Chapman announced today in conjunction with the ECHL.

"Mike is an extremely hard worker who is very committed and dedicated to his job," said Chapman. "We're thrilled for him that he is now being recognized throughout professional hockey for his abilities as a broadcaster."

Benton, 25, will make the first ECHL All-Star Game radio appearance of his career on January 17, 2007 joining Mike O'Brien of the Trenton Titans and Kevin Reiter of the Florida Everblades on the broadcast, with the game to be held at Qwest Arena beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT. The game's broadcast will be produced through NHL Radio, with specific listening details to be announced soon.

Benton is in his second season as the Thunder's play-by-play broadcast voice and calls all Stockton home, road, and playoff games on B2 Networks, serving the same role since the team's inception in 2005. Additionally, Benton currently serves an identical broadcast role in arena football for the Stockton Lightning of the arenafootball2 league.

The Azusa, California native previously worked select games on audio broadcasts for the Long Beach Ice Dogs of the ECHL in 2004-05 after graduating with a B.A. degree in Communication Studies from Azusa Pacific University (Calif.) in 2004, and has garnered play-by-play experience in Minor League Baseball with the Dayton Dragons and High Desert Mavericks, and in college basketball with Azusa Pacific and University of California-Riverside.

The Thunder will be sending an ECHL-high four players to the All-Star Game. Center Nathan Martz and defenseman Beau Geisler were named to the National Conference starting lineup, while goaltender Devan Dubnyk and right wing Troy Bodie garnered selections to the National Conference team in their professional rookie seasons.

An ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League's Edmonton Oilers, the Thunder drew 228,364 fans to Stockton Arena in its inaugural season, the ECHL's best attendance mark for 2005-06. Thunder season tickets, mini-plans, and individual tickets for the 2006-07 season are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit stocktonthunder.com: Home.

 

[truebluefan]

Bombers Weekly

BOMBERS NOTES

*Let's Go Streaking! The Bombers are 8-1-0 in the month of December and our on a current four game winning streak (second longest in the ECHL) for the second time this month. They have won eight of their last nine and are 10-4-1 in their last 15 games. They also have a current four game home winning streak and three game road winning streak.

*Power Play Keys Success! The Bombers are 10-0-1 when scoring a goal on the power play this season. They have scored a total of four power play goals in their last four games (4-0).

*Winning The Important Ones! The Bombers have picked up 11 of their 13 victories against Northern Division opponents. They have winning records against three opponents (2-0 vs. WHL), (3-1 vs. TRE), (1-0 vs. REA) and do not have a losing record against the other three opponents in the division (3-3 CIN), (1-1-1 vs. TOL), (1-1 vs. JHN).

* Bombs Away! The Bombers put up a season high 49 shots on goal in their 1-0 shutout over the Trenton Titans in Trenton on Saturday. The Bombers have out shot their opponents in every game but one this season and 662-498 overall. They continue to lead the league in shots against, only allowing 24.90 shots per game.

LOOK OUT BELOW

* Moving On Up! The Bombers continue to climb the standings in the North Division. They went from 5th to 3rd place over the weekend and are only three points behind the first place Cincinnati Cyclones. The Bombers have seven games in hand on Cincinnati are 3-3 against them this season. The Bombers will have to play 52 games over the course of the remaining 100 days left in the regular season to make up all the games in hand on their opponents.

IMPORTANT WEEK AHEAD! Dayton returns to the ice tomorrow night at Hobart Arena, in Troy, Ohio at 8:00 p.m. to continue the Cricket Cup series with the Cincinnati Cyclones. Then on Friday, the Bombers go back on the road to the Sports Arena to take on the Toledo Storm at 7:35 p.m. Toledo will then return the visit and come to the Nutter Center on Saturday at 7:00 p.m. as the Bombers close out their 2006 portion of the schedule.

DROPPING DAYTON NOTES

- All Bombers Game Day Broadcasts Can Be Heard Online at Dayton Bombers : Miami Valley's Only Professional "AA" Hockey Franchise

Record: 13-6-1 27 pts. (3rd North Division)

(Week Record 2-0-0) (Streak Won Four)

LAST WEEK'S RESULTS

Friday December 22nd at Trenton Titans (5-4 W)

Saturday December 23rd at Trenton Titans (1-0 W)

THIS WEEK'S EVENT

Thursday December 28th vs. Cincinnati Cyclones (Hobart Arena) (8:00 p.m.)

Friday December 29th at Toledo Storm (7:35 p.m.)

Saturday December 30th vs. Toledo Storm (7:00 p.m.)

 

[truebluefan]

Ice Pilots fly into Augusta tonight 12/27/06 - ECHL (ECHL) Augusta Lynx

Augusta, GA - When the Pensacola Ice Pilots take to the ice at the James Brown Arena tonight, they will immediately recognize they are in unfriendly territory - Lynx fans, GET YOUR GAME FACE ON!

Come to the game on December 27th in your best Lynx regalia and face paint, and you could win a prize from Mellow Mushroom, Top Notch Car Wash, or even DVD movies and Lynx tickets! Fans who want to get into the spirit at the game can do so with the help of a professional face painter at the game Wednesday - everybody is welcome to get into the hockey spirit. Plus, the Lynx are once again offering $5 Mezzanine seats to fans for the game for a little holiday spending relief!

The Lynx and Ice Pilots face off at 7:35 pm, with radio coverage beginning one half-hour before game time on your Home for Lynx Hockey, NEWSTALKSPORTS 1630. Tickets are $18, $15, and Mezzanine seats are just $5 for tonight's game!

 

[truebluefan]

ECHL Suspensions

PRINCETON, N.J. - The ECHL announced on Wednesday that as a result of their actions in ECHL Game #323 at Pensacola on December 23, defenseman Mario Joly and Forward Dan Sullivan of Pensacola have each been suspended for three games and fined an undisclosed amount. The ECHL also announced that defenseman Luis Tremblay of Texas has been suspended for two games and fined an undisclosed amount.

At the 9:19 mark of the third period, Joly received two game misconducts and Sullivan received a match penalty.

Joly will miss Pensacola's games at Augusta (Dec. 27), vs. Gwinnett (Dec. 29) and at Gwinnett (Dec. 30).

Sullivan will miss Pensacola's games at Augusta (Dec. 27), vs. Gwinnett (Dec. 29) and at Gwinnett (Dec. 30).

Tremblay will miss Texas' games vs. Florida (Dec. 29) and vs. Florida (Dec. 30).

 

[truebluefan]

Reading's Hiebert Fined

PRINCETON, N.J. - The ECHL announced on Wednesday that Reading forward James Hiebert has been fined an undisclosed amount as a result of his actions in ECHL Game #309 at Columbia on December 22.

 

[truebluefan]

Johnstown's Deveaux Suspended One Game And Fined

PRINCETON, N.J. - The ECHL announced on Wednesday that it has suspended Johnstown center Andre Deveaux for one game and fined him an undisclosed amount as a result of his actions in ECHL Game #325 at Toledo on December 23.

Deveaux was assessed a match penalty for his actions during a first period altercation under ECHL Rule 21.1.

Deveaux will miss Johnstown's game at Toledo (Dec. 27).

 

[truebluefan]

ECHL Scoring Champ joins Wildcatters

Beaumont, TX (December 27, 2006) Texas Wildcatters Vice-President of Hockey Operations and Head Coach Malcolm Cameron has announced that the Houston Aeros have loaned forward Alex Leavitt to the Wildcatters. In 23 games with the Aeros, Leavitt has two goals and nine assists for 11 points. The Wildcatters acquired the ECHL rights of Leavitt earlier this season from the Alaska Aces.

Leavitt won the ECHL scoring title in his rookie year last season with the Alaska Aces. He was the first rookie to accomplish the feat in the last 15 seasons. Leavitt scored 26 goals and 65 assists for 91 points and helped the Alaska Aces win the Kelly Cup Championship in just his first year. He was selected to the All ECHL First-team and All-Rookie Team. During the Aces post-season run, Leavitt had a goal and 12 assists and Alaska went an amazing 9-0 when he scored at least one point.

The Texas Wildcatters are the ECHL affiliate for the AHL's Houston Aeros. The next Wildcatters home game is on Thursday, December 28 vs. South Division rival, the Florida Everblades. Don't miss any hard-hitting Wildcatters hockey action. 2006-07 Season Tickets are still available. Wildcatters' season tickets start at just $9 per game and feature numerous benefits including free parking and discounted merchandise. Group discount plans are also available by calling (409) 951-5500. For single game tickets stop by the Ford Park Box Office, call (409) 951-5440 or log on to ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit the Wildcatters online at Welcome to WildcattersHockey.com.

 

[truebluefan]

Gladiators lose to Inferno, 5-3

Despite three points from ECHL leading scorer Brad Schell, the Gladiators couldn't get past the Columbia Inferno in a 5-3 loss on Wednesday night on the Your Best Rate Financial Home Ice at the Arena at Gwinnett Center. Gwinnett falls to 16-9-4 on the season in the loss.

Just nine seconds into the contest, Columbia took a 1-0 lead as they capitalized on a Gladiators defensive turnover at the Gwinnett blue line. Owen Fussey picked up the loose puck and beat Gwinnett netminder Dave Caruso on a breakway for the unassisted goal.

Brad Schell's first goal of the game just 30 seconds into the second period tied the game at one goal apiece. Jon Awe fed Schell at the point to post an assist on the 5-on-3 power play goal for Gwinnett. Scott Mifsud also had a helper on the marker working the puck along the right wing boads with Awe to set up the marker.

Gwinnett took a 2-1 lead on Schell's second goal of the game as he ripped a slap shot over the shoulder of Columbia netminder Robert Gherson at the 8:04 mark of the second period. Colton Fretter led Schell walking into the zone to set up the goal and to pick up an assist. Jim Jackson also had a helper on the goal, getting the puck ahead to Fretter in the neutral zone.

Awe pushed the Gladiators lead to 3-1 ripping a slap shot from the point past Gheron for the power play marker. Mifsud fed Awe at the point to set up the power play goal at the 15:08 mark of the middle period. Schell collected his third point of the game by moving the puck up to Mifsud to set up the marker.

Columbia answered before the end of the second period with a pair of goals. Mike Jarmuth ripped a slap shot from the left wing face off circle past a Gladiators defenseman and netminder Caruso to the far post for the marker. Fussey had an assist on the goal at the 17:28 mark of the second period.

Chris St. Jacques tied the game at three at the 18:14 mark of the second period as he redirected a centering pass behind Caruso for the marker. Jeff Miles threw the puck into the slot to set up the marker while Mike Vellinga also had an assist on the goal.

Jarmuth scored his second goal of the game at the 4:51 mark of the second period as he posted what proved to be the game winner. On a 5-on-3 power play, Jarmuth ripped a slap shot past Caruso from the point for the marker. Miles and Brad Ralph collected the assists on the game winning power play goal for Columbia.

Anthony Battaglia added an empty net power play goal for the Inferno with just four seconds left in the third period. Raplh posted an assist on the goal as he slid the puck through the neutral zone to set up Battaglia.

Caruso finished with 21 saves for the Gladiators in the loss while both teams went 2-for-8 on the power play in the contest.

The American Conference Champion Gwinnett Gladiators continue their fourth season on the road as they travel to Pensacola to take on the Ice Pilots on Friday, December 29th at 8:05 p.m. The Gladiators offer several ticket packages for different needs as well as group outings, suites and birthday parties. For more information call 770-497-5100 or log on to Gwinnett Gladiators.

The Gladiators play all 36 home games on the Your Best Rate Financial Home Ice at the Arena at Gwinnett Center located on Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth and are the AA affiliate of the Atlanta Thrashers.

 

[truebluefan]

Havern's Late Goal Blows Away Cyclones

WHEELING, WV - Sean Collins and Ned Havern didn't wait long to make their presence felt when they returned to the lineup tonight against the Cincinnati Cylcones.

Collins scored his eleventh goal of the season just 1:13 into the first period when he lifted a shot over a sprawled Cedrick Desjardins. Jordan Cameron and Paul Bissonnette assisted on the goal.

Jason Deitsch tied the game for the Cyclones at 3:03 of the first when he stuffed home a rebound from in close.

Cincinnati's leading scorer, Cory Urquhart, gave the Cyclones a 2-1 lead 5:18 into the first when his wrist shot just trickled past Andy Franck.

The Nailers tied it 8:42 into the first frame on Collins' second tally. Jordan Cameron and Cody Blanshan had assists on the play.

Ned Havern, playing his first game in a Nailers sweater since October 28th when he broke his wrist, beat Desjardins for a power-play goal 5:15 into the second period. Jordan Cameron added his third assist on the night and Ryan Moren had the secondary assist.

But with just over ten minutes remaining in the second, Cincinnati's Urquhart struck again, tying the game at three with his 17th goal of the season.

The visitors took a 4-3 lead with 3:05 left in the second when Mathieu Aubin slid the disc into an open net.

Franck made a sprawling save, but the rebound bounced directly to Aubin who was waiting at the side of the net for the easy score.

The Nailers had a great chance seven minutes into the third when Ned Havern, who just stepped out of the penalty box, found himself on a breakaway.

Havern's move was a good one, deeking right then left, but Desjardins was up to the challenge, extending his legs post to post to shut the door on Havern to keep the score 4-3 in favor of the Cyclones.

The Nailers got a huge lift from an unlikely source when rookie defenseman Bernie Chmiel scored his first professional goal with just over 6:02 remaining to tie the game.

Chmiel corralled the puck just inside the right circle and skated into the slot and fired a wrist shot that got through Desjardins. Jon Smyth and Joe Guenther added the assists.

The game could not have ended any better or have been scripted any better for Sean Collins and Ned Havern as Havern scored the game winning goal with just 39 ticks on the clock on a beautiful cross ice feed from Collins. Jordan Cameron also added his fourth assist of the night.

The Nailers played with more confidence tonight with the return of Collins and Havern and look to keep up the offense when they take on the Reading Royals on Friday for a 1 p.m. start before returning home on Saturday to take on the Johnstown Chiefs at 7:30 p.m.

 

[truebluefan]

The Shot Parade Continues As Storm Defeat Chiefs 4-2

(Toledo, Ohio) The Toledo Storm (14-11-1) continued their onslaught of shots on Wednesday night against the Johnstown Chiefs (12-12-3) by throwing 51 pucks on net. Unlike last Saturday (where the Storm had 61 shots on net), the Storm were victorious by a 4-2 final score in front of 3,704 at Toledo Sports Arena. The Storm finished with 50+ shots for the second consecutive game, the most since last winter when Toledo put up 51 shots in three consecutive games from February 26th through March 6th. The box score from tonight's game can be viewed here .

The Storm were able to draw first blood, as their power play connected early in the opening frame when Matt Zultek collected a rebound left by Johnstown netminder Morgan Cey (L, 48 saves) and lifted it into the net. Mike James and P.J. Martin assisted on Zultek's goal, which came at 9:26. The Chiefs also capitalized on a man advantage in the first period, when a Radek Smolenak wrist shot eluded Storm goaltender Dominic Vicari (W, 21 saves) at 15:20 to tie things at 1.

In the second period, the Storm regained the lead when Jeff Attard tipped home a Mitch Maunu blast from the blue line to give Toledo a 2-1 advantage with 2:56 gone in the middle frame; Ken Magowan also picked up a secondary assist on the power play goal. The lead would be short lived, however, as Smolenak notched his second of the game by lifting a puck past Vicari with 6:55 gone to tie things again, 2-2.

The power play continued to connect for Toledo in the third period, as Gerry Burke blasted a shot past Cey to put the Storm up a goal, 3-2. The goal, which turned out to be the game winner came at the 5:45 mark of the third and was Toledo's third power play goal of the contest. The Storm finished 3-of-12 with the man advantage on Wednesday. Attard added an empty netter in the final minute to cap off the scoring as Toledo claimed the 4-2 victory.

The Storm will hit the ice again THIS Friday night, as they will welcome the Dayton Bombers to Toledo Sports Arena at 7:35pm. Great tickets for the game are still available by calling 419-691-0200 or online at the all-new ToledoStorm.com. Fans can hear all the action of the game LIVE on 1520 AM Jams or online at The Toledo Storm - Great Team. Great Time . Fans can also watch the game LIVE via the B2 Network. Coverage of Wednesday's game begins 15 minutes prior to the opening face-off. Toledo Storm Hockey...Great Team, Great Time!

 

[truebluefan]

Storm power play too much for Chiefs

Toledo, Ohio (December 27, 2006) - The Toledo Storm defeated the Johnstown Chiefs by a score of 4-2 at the Toledo Sports Arena on Wednesday.

Matt Zultek got Toledo on the board first, roofing the rebound of a shot by Mike James past Chiefs netminder Morgan Cey at the 9:26 mark of the first period. Radek Smolenak would even the score at one-apiece, scoring on a cross-ice feed from Zbynek Hrdel at 15:20, beating Toledo goaltender Dominic Vicari high to the glove side.

Jeff Attard gave Toledo a 2-1 lead at 2:56 of the first period, picking up the rebound of a shot from the point by Mitch Maunu. Radek Smolenak would score his second of the night to tie the game at two at 6:55 of the second period, jamming the puck past Vicari.

Toledo would go ahead for good on the power-play when Gerry Burke's blast from the point beat Morgan Cey at 5:45 of the third period. Jeff Attard would add an empty-net goal to seal the win for Toledo.

The Chiefs return home to face Toledo on December 31. Good seats are still available and can be purchased at the War Memorial box office or by calling (814) 536-5156 or 1 (800) CHF-TIXX.

 

[truebluefan]

Power play keys Titans' 4-2 win over Royals

TRENTON, NJ (December 27, 2006) - Two third-period power play goals scored in a span of 37 seconds helped lead the Trenton Titans to a 4-2 win over the Reading Royals in front of 3,095 at the Sovereign Bank Arena.

Looking to end a winless streak that had stretched to four games, the Titans got much-needed help from their power play units in the final period. With score tied 2-2 Doug Christiansen and Jeff State headed to the penalty box in succession to give Trenton a 5-on-3 advantage for 94 seconds.

The Titans would capitalize at 9:36 when Troy Riddle picked up his own rebound and lifted it over a sprawled Jeff Pietrasiak for his seventh of the year. On the ensuing 5-on-4 John Laliberte put Trenton up 4-2 just 37 ticks of the clock later when he dug the loose puck out a scrum in front of the net and backhanded it home.

The first period saw each team notch a shorthanded goal as Jim Henkel opened the scoring at 5:20 converting a 2-on-1 break with Riddle.

Joe Zappala allowed the Royals to answer back at 15:27 of the opening frame as he took a homerun feed from Jason Becker and snuck a wrister through the five-hole of Joel Martin.

The Titans' netminder was otherwise strong making 26 saves on the evening to raise his record to 6-6-2. Mike Pandolfo continued to put up points with a goal - registered at 17:29 of the first - and two assists to raise his team-leading totals to 19 goals, 20 assists and 39 points. Laliberte also added an assist in his first game with Trenton since November 25.

The Titans finished 2-for-6 on the man-advantage and 5-for-5 on the penalty kill.

The Trenton Titans finish their four-game homestand on Friday, December 29 at 7:30pm against the Johnstown Chiefs. . Tune into 91.3FM-WTSR to listen live to all of the Titans' action.

TRENTON TITANS - The Buzz is Back!!! - Full and partial season tickets plans for the 2006-07 season are available by calling a Titans Ticket Representative at (609) 599-9500.

The Trenton Titans are a member of the ECHL - North America's Premier "AA" Hockey League. The Trenton Titans are owned and operated by the National Hockey League's New Jersey Devils.

 

[truebluefan]

Ice Pilots fall to Augusta 3-0

AUGUSTA, GA - The Pensacola Ice Pilots surrendered two second-period goals and were beaten 3-0 by the Augusta Lynx on Wednesday night.

It was the start of a busy week for the Ice Pilots as they begin a stretch of four games in five nights.

The Ice Pilots were short three players as Mario Joly and Dan Sullivan were serving the first game of their three-game suspension for an altercation on Saturday. Mike Wirll didn't play as he had a tooth pulled earlier in the day.

There was no scoring in the first period with the Ice Pilots having better chances than their opponents. The Ice Pilots kept the Augusta Lynx to the outside and limited their scoring chances.

In the second period, Augusta went to work and scored two goals in the first 6:40 of the stanza. First Shane Hynes and then Ryan Lang and it was 2-0. the Ice pilots had three power play opportunities in the second but failed to score on goaltender Mike Brodeaur.

The Lynx put the game away with a third period goal and Mike Brodeaur kicked aside 21 shots in the contest to post the shutout.

Notes: The Ice Pilots return to action on Friday when they host the Gwinnett Gladiators at 7:05 pm at The Hangar. The Zooperstars will be performing during the first and second intermissions. It will be a great night for the entire family.

Tickets are available at the Pensacola Civic Center Box Office and all ticketmaster locations. For further information on the Ice Pilots including group rates call 432-PUCK.

 

[truebluefan]

Brodeur shuts out Ice Pilots 3-0

Augusta, GA - Augusta Lynx goaltender Mike Brodeur recorded 21 saves for his first shutout of the season while Aaron Slattengren notched his first professional goal in a 3-0 victory over the Pensacola Ice Pilots Wednesday night.

Shane Hynes recorded his tenth goal of the season to open the scoring at 2:01 of the second period from Louis Goulet and Jamie Johnson. Johnson fed the puck in front to Hynes, who punched it past Ice Pilots goaltender Ben Gray on a second effort for a 1-0 lead.

Ryan Lang followed with his team leading 14th goal of the year from J.B. Bittner and Joe Pereira, one-timing Bittner's pass into the slot through the five hole on Gray.

Slattengren finished off the scoring in the contest at 5:39 of the third period from Jason Kostadine for the 3-0 final. All three Augusta goals came off battles won in the corner followed by a centering pass.

Brodeur, meanwhile, made 10 stops in the first period and seven in the third en route to the victory, his second consecutive win for Augusta. A late Pensacola flurry at the end of the final frame saw the Lynx netminder make his best saves of the night, including a glove stop from point-blank range to preserve zero.

Augusta finished the contest 0-for-4 on the power play and Pensacola 0-for-5.

The Lynx are back in action this Saturday night as they travel to Charlotte to battle the Checkers at 7:30 pm before returning home for a New Year's Eve rematch at 7:35 pm. Radio coverage begins one half-hour before game time on your Home for Lynx Hockey, NEWSTALKSPORTS 1630.