Bossier-Shreveport takes battle of Southern Conference Leaders 6-3 against Allen

In a critical game between Conference Leaders in the D/FW Metroplex. It was Bossier-Shreveport Forward Justin Aikins who lead the way with a goal and 2 assists who was among 5 players who scored multiple points in the game which also had Simon Mangos contribute 2 assists.

And David Rutherford who scored twice (both in the 2nd period) which officially helped blow the game wide open as he took the Mudbugs lead from a 2-1 lead to a 4-1 lead for BOS in just under 3 minutes early in the 2nd period.

Goaltending wasn't strong, but was good when he needed to be with Brian Foster stopping 34 of 37 saves in a game where the Americans out-shot the Americans 37-27 in the game.

As for the Americans goaltending, it wasn't a good night as the Americans had to switch goalies after David Rutherford's 2nd goal of the night where starting goalie Chris Whitley stopped only 10 of 14 shots in just under 25 minutes of work.

Then after the switch to backup Adrian Lemay, he kept them in the game by stopping 11 of 12 shots, but couldn't get the Americans a chance to win the game with 3rd period Mudbug Goals by Jeff Martens that made it 5-3, then an empty netter by Travis Clayton who scored his 3rd of the season with a minute left in the game.


Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 6  Allen Americans 3  (2-1, 2-1, 2-1)

Game Story from the Allen Americans Website

From Allen, Texas: The mood was festive for Halloween a themed game Tuesday Night at the Allen Event Center, with the Americans looking to move their unbeaten streak to 6 starting this season. Nino Musitelli found the back of the net early in the first, giving Allen the early lead after he wired home a shoot off the faceoff.

Just four minutes later, Mudbugs winger Shawn Limpright would tie it up. Soon after, the Americans found themselves trailing as Justin Aikins would bring the first period to a close with Allen down 2-1, when he banged home a shot right in front of the net.

Mudbugs center David Rutherford would come back from the intermission with a vengeance, scoring two goals at 1:56 and 4:55 of the second period. The Americans would come right back, as team captain Jarrett Lukin would score the final goal of the period leaving Allen with a renewed confidence going into the third period.

The Americans continued to claw their way back in the fourth minute when Dave Bonk would bring the score to 4-3. Bonk willed his way to the front of the net and put home his rebound to score his first goal as an American.

Allen continued to hang tough in the 3rd period, fueled by multiple saves from Adrian Lemay, who took over for Chris Whitley in the first.

Despite several solid chances in the third period, the Americans failed to tie the game up at 4-4, as goaltender Brian Foster came up with the necessary saves.

The Mudbugs would extend their lead when Jeff Martens would score his fourth of the season to put the Bugs up 5-3.

Bossier-Shreveport Travis Clayton scored the final goal of the game on an empty net bid, bringing the final count to to 6-3, and handing the Americans first loss of the season.

The Americans will be in Rapid City, SD to play the Rush on Friday, October 29. The meeting will be the first contest between the two since their Ray Morin Presidents Cup Finals series to close last season.


Quote from Allen Americans Head Coach Dwight Mullins

"We thought things were pretty even in the first through the 2nd period. At times I thought we competed very well. Other times I thought, maybe, we were losing some battles we needed to win. I think we pushed hard. I don't think we executed very clean. And I think we turned the puck over in some bad areas that caused us problems."


Tonight's Three Stars

1. David Rutherford (BOS)

2. Jarrett Lukin (ALN)

3. Dave Bonk (ALN) 

Stars VS. Ducks Preview Plus AHL & CHL Previews

Here's a look at some links getting ready for the Dallas Stars VS. Anaheim Ducks Game tonight as the Stars will be playing their first Pacific Division Game of the season tonight for the Stars as they look to go to 1-1-0 in their 6 game home-stand.

In addition to the Dallas Stars, the Texas Stars play the final game of a 5 game home-stand tonight as they will play the Peoria Rivermen for the 2nd time in the last few days. Back on Saturday, the Texas Stars lost a close fought 2-0 decision with the T-Stars outshoting the Rivermen 36-19 in the game back on Saturday Night.

Finally, the Allen Americans and Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs will be battling it out in a battle for the Southern Conference Lead as well as the Tulsa Oilers will play the Colorado Eagles tonight in the Central Hockey League.

Theirs also an interesting article regarding the Dallas Stars Home Attendance Concerns from the website Defending Big D.

Here's some fun that Adam Burish had with a recent email about his player on EA Sports NHL 2011. It includes an email that the person (Withholding his Name) along with Burish's Video Response.

Adam Burish's NHL 2011 Response

Here's the links for tonight's Action.

Anaheim Ducks VS. Dallas Stars   8:00 PM

Mike Heika: Kari Lehtonen to start his 8th straight game tonight

Mike Heika: Scouting the Ducks

Crawford Unsure on who will sit out Tonight

Defending Big D: Dallas Stars VS. Anaheim Ducks Preview

If you want to chat with me and other Stars Fans, check out the Defending Big D Game Thread where you can chat with other Stars Fans for every game during the season.

Defending Big D Dallas VS. Anaheim Game Thread


Defending Big D: Attendance Problems


Peoria Rivermen VS. Texas Stars   7:30 PM

Peoria VS. Texas Game Preview


Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs VS. Allen Americans    7:30 PM

Bossier-Shreveport Gameday Preview


Colorado Eagles VS. Tulsa Oilers    7:00 PM

Colorado VS. Tulsa Game Preview

Bossier-Shreveport wins in a goal fest against Tulsa 6-4

Bossier-Shreveport continues to have Tulsa's Number in recent years as the Mudbugs beat the Tulsa Oilers for their 15th straight win over the Oilers as the Mudbugs go to 3-0-0 and temporally go to the top of the Berry Conference (South) while the Oilers have lost their first game of the year after winning a home-and-home series against the Wichita Thunder on opening weekend of the season.

Bossier-Shreveport has scored a ton of goals in the early season as the Mudbugs beat the Mississippi Riverkings scored 10 on opening night against the Riverkings as they beat them 10-1. So far through 3 games, Mudbugs forwards Brett Smith and Justin Aikins are 1-and-2 on the scoring leaders as Brett Smith has already scored 5 goals and has added 4 assists for 9 points. While Aikins has scored 7 points (3G 4A) as the Mudbugs have already scored 18 goals in 3 games (avg. 6 goals a game) so far.

For Tulsa, the Oilers are looking to turn things around as the Oilers have been in the bottom rung of the CHL the last several years, last year hopefully was a springboard as the Oilers just missed the playoffs as they were beaten by 5 points to then expansion Missouri Mavericks last season. Bossier-Shreveport on the other hand had a great season by finishing 3rd in the North and beat Colorado in the Conference Semifinals and pushed the eventual Presidents Cup Champion Rapid City Rush in 7 games.

Coming up later this week for the two teams will match up twice against the Allen Americans (Thursday & Friday), then will head to the other side of the Metroplex for a Saturday Night tilt against the Texas Brahmas.

For Tulsa, it's a trip up north to Illinois as the Oilers will face the Blommington Prairie Thunder on Saturday Night.


Game Story from the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Website

Tulsa Oilers 4  Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 6  (3-2, 1-4, 0-0)

From Bossier-City, Louisana: Three unanswered goals to end the second period helped the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs to a 6-4 win over the Tulsa Oilers on Thursday Night at the Century Tel Center. The Bugs are now the only 3-0-0 team in the Central Hockey League after earning their 15th straight victory against the Tulsa Oilers.

The forward line of Justin Aikins, David Rutherford and Jeff Martins accounted for four of Bossier-Shreveport's Goals and added three assists. Rutherford scored two goals (including the game winner) and added an assist, when Martens scored for the first time as a Mudbug and chipped in two helpers as well.

The Bugs stated quick with two goals in the first 4:09 of the contest. First Aikins beat a defender on the Rush before backhanding the puck short sided on Trevor Cann, and then the Martens knocked home a rebound following an Oilers turnover in their own zone. Tulsa answered with three goals later in the period, started with Jack Combs power play tally at 9:18. Combs added a shorthanded goal less then three minutes later and Chad Costello capped off the period with a breakaway goal to make it 3-2 Oilers after one.

The Mudbugs tied at 3-3 with Jamie Milam scored on the power play early in the second, but Costello scored his second goal of the night on a rebound off the end boards to re-take the lead for Tulsa. David Rutherford wasted little time in tying it at 4-4, beating Cann from between the circles for his first goal of the season at 14:54. The Bugs went on top to stay less then three minutes later when Rutherford scored again, backhanding a shot over Cann's right pad to finish off a nice passing play with Martens and Aikins to make it 5-4.

Brett Smith extended the lead to 6-4 late in the 2nd period, crashing the net the force in his own rebound off a Tulsa player in front of the net with 1:03 left in the period. Tyler Simms relived Cann in goal for the Oilers, who pressed hard in the third period, but no goals were scored in the final frame despite an 11-2 shot advantage for the Oilers.

The Bugs will take one day off before jumping in their first set of three games in three days against Allen. The Mudbugs host the Americans on Thursday and Friday at the Century Tel Center before traveling to Texas for their first meeting against the Brahmas on Saturday Night at the NYTEX Sports Center.

Great seats are still available for the games vs. Allen on Thursday and Friday, so contact the team office at 318-752-BUGS for more info on season tickets, mini plans and group tickets. Individual tickets are available through Ticket Master at 318-741-9700, online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/ or at the Century Tel Center main box office.

Central Hockey League Rosters

With the Central Hockey League season beginning Tomorrow night, here's a look at the Southwest Teams as the final rosters are getting ready to come out. In addition to the rosters, several major rivalries are going to dominate headlines on the opening weekend, like the Brahmas & Americans at the Allen Events Center where the Americans are going to raise the CHL Southern Conference Championship Banner on October 15 and the South Texas Rivalry between the Laredo Bucks and Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees.

Other major rivalries include the Tulsa Oilers and Wichita Thunder and the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs VS. Mississippi Riverkings which will be a home-and-home matchup with the Mudbugs hosting the first leg on Friday Night.

Some of the big news from over the off-season includes the return of Chad Woolard who has had the nickname "Mr. Brahma" for his great play in the past with the team when it was located at the Ft. Worth Civic Center in the team's early history. This past season he was with the Corpus Christi Icerays in their final year in the Central Hockey League before leaving for the North American Hockey League to become a Junior Team.

Other teams he's played with include the Mississippi Riverkings and Quad City Mallards in the CHL. As well as some time in the ECHL with the Greensboro Generals and Jackson Bandits. As well as a short Stint in the AHL with the Utah Grizzlies, St. John's Maple Leafs and San Antonio Rampage as well. He has never suited up in an NHL Game in his career.

As for players moving, Allen Americans Defensemen Brandon Struab has signed a contract with the Detroit Red Wings AHL Affiliate Grand Rapids Griffins recently.

Other Americans players that were involved in the CHL Southern Conference Championship include the offensive trio of Nino Musitelli, Justin Bowers and Bruce Graham who all combined for 215 points last season during the regular season and then 78 points combined in the post-season where the Americans came up 2 wins shy of a CHL Presidents Cup Title in their very season of professional hockey in Allen.

Here's a look at the schedule for the opening weekend of the regular season involving the CHL Southwest Teams. A lot of rivalries will be going, including Texas VS. Allen, RG Valley VS. Laredo and Tulsa VS. Wichita on Friday Night. I will also show links to the rosters for all the teams. Keep in mind that final rosters for the most part won't come out until just before the team's first game of the season.


Friday 10/15

Mississippi Riverkings VS. Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs   7:05 PM

Odessa Jackalopes VS. Missouri Mavericks    7:05 PM

Texas Brahmas VS. Allen Americans     7:30 PM

Laredo Bucks VS. RG Valley Killer Bees   7:30 PM

Wichita Thunder VS. Tulsa Oilers    7:35 PM


Saturday 10/16

Texas Brahmas VS. Allen Americans   7:00 PM

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs VS. Mississippi Riverkings    7:05 PM

Tulsa Oilers VS. Wichita Thunder     7:05 PM

Odessa Jackalopes VS. Quad City Mallards   7:05 PM

Laredo Bucks VS. RG Valley Killer Bees    7:30 PM


Here's the schedules and rosters for the Southwest Central Hockey League Teams.

Allen Americans Roster

Allen Americans Schedule


Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Roster

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Schedule


Laredo Bucks Roster

Laredo Bucks Schedule


Odessa Jackalopes Roster

Odessa Jackalopes Schedule


Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees Roster

Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees Schedule


Texas Brahmas Schedule

Texas Brahmas Roster


Tulsa Oilers Schedule

Tulsa Oilers Roster

Q&A with Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Head Coach Scott Muscutt

In the latest edition of "They Said It" Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Head Coach Steve Muscutt talks about bringing the team back to glory after the Mudbugs finished 3rd in the Northern Conference and upsetting the Colorado Eagles in the Northern Conference Semifinals and came within 1 win of beating the eventual President Cup Champion Rapid City Rush.

This was one of the most successful seasons in recent memory for the Mudbugs where despite making the playoffs every year since 2004, they have been problems advancing in the post-season which include a couple of occasion's where they finished on top of the conference.

One of the biggest recent post season failures was in 2008 where after a 44-14-6 record for 94 points, the Mudbugs were swept by the Texas Brahmas in 4 games straight during the Brahmas first season at the NYTEX Sports Center in North Richland Hills, Texas.

After Bossier-Shreveport's strong season, head coach Scott Musctt is looking to bring home the Mudbugs first League Championship since 2001 and the fans are looking as they have high expections for the 2010-2011 season.

Here's a look at other "They Said It" Segments

Dayton Gems Brian Gratz

RGV Killer Bees Chris Brooks

Laredo Bucks Terry Ruskowski

Rapid City Rush Joe Ferras

Quad City Mallards Frank Anzalone


Here's the Bossier Shreveport Mudbugs Records over the last 3 seasons.


2007-2008 Season

Regular Season: 44-14-6 94 PTS, Northeast DIV. Champions, 1st in Northern Conference

Playoffs: Conference SFS: Lost to Texas Brahmas 4-0


2008-2009 Season

Regular Season: 39-19-6 84 PTS, 3rd in Northeast DIV, 4th in Northern Conference

Playoffs: Beat Rocky Mountain Rage 2-1 in Play In Round, Lost to Colorado Eagles 4-0 in Conf. SFS


2009-2010 Season

Regular Season: 38-22-4 80 PTS, 3rd in Northern Conference

Playoffs: Beat Colorado Eagles 4-0 in Conf. SFS, Lost to Rapid City Rush 4-3 in Conf. Finals


Here's the Q&A from the Central Hockey League Website

Your team finished strong last year despite many injuries, what did you learn about that team in April?

I could not be more proud of the group of guys that finished the season for our club. They wore the jersey with pride and refused to let excuses stand in the way of their best efforts. As a result, we were able to overcome a lot of adversity and come very close to achieving our goals.


With some of the obstacles of this offseason and the CHL getting five new teams, how has it impacted what you are trying to do recruiting?

I believe it has actually helped our recruiting by giving us an opportunity to find out more about the character of the players we are signing or bringing to camp. Not knowing the financial details and other parts of the operations of the league just lets us know who wants to be a Mudbug no matter what.


You are bringing many of your core players, does that help during camp and beginning of the season because they know what to expect from them?

I think (and hope) that helps all year. Our year was a lot of fun last season and I would like to have many of those guys back again to try to win a championship. Although we try not to put as much emphasis on the beginning of the year, the familiarity does help guys get comfortable in their roles.

The Mudbugs have a former player in Jason Campbell now changing gears and moving into the front office as a GM, how do you think he will do in his new role and what from his playing days under you will help him lead the team off the ice?

Soupy has been, in a word, phenomenal. He is a great friend, father, husband and hockey guy. His transition to GM has been seamless and Mudbug Fans are going to be thrilled with what he brings to the table! I don't think he needs to take anything from me to lead this team off the ice, he is ready and prepared and passionate. Always has been, always will be.


Ken Carroll announced his retirement over the off-season, what has it been like coaching one of the best all time in the CHL and what will his absence mean to the team?

Kenny is one of those guys that made you love going to work because he was going to be there. He always competed so hard that he made everyone around him better every day. Kenny Carroll will certainly be missed and obviously there's no way that can be replaced in the locker room. We as a franchise will be honoring Kenny astonishing career this season as we learn to move forward into a new era without him.


The Mudbugs moved to the South or Berry Conference this season, does that change anything regarding your approach?

Well, let's see: More games against Allen, Texas, Laredo, Odessa, Rio Grande Valley and Arizona and we still have to battle Tulsa and Mississippi. My approach now contains more game film, more heart medication, more Tylenol and more work. This is going to be great fun every night.


What is the biggest challenge to having five new teams in the league that aren't scouted or known very well in the league?

I think the challenge remains the same with the new teams. You have tried to figure out quickly what works and what doesn't against some very good hockey teams. The difference is likely what the every game tendencies can't be a part of your pregame preparation; they are now a between-period adjustment. We are thrilled to have these teams in our league, and it's great to attack the 2010-2011 season.


Who has been the biggest influence on you and your coaching style?

When I started out (this was an easy one to answer) my father, Mike Johnston and Mike Kelly (who both went on to coach in the NHL) all gave me the desire to coach. Now I enjoy coaching in the CHL more every year. With the players and coaches that are in the league game in and game out, you're always learning something new that you didn't know the day before. That gives you the passion to stay competitive and keep improving.

Central Hockey League to Name Conferences after League Legends

The Central Hockey League announced today the official names of the Northern & Southern Conferences as they will be named after legends from the CHL & IHL as the Northern Conference will be named the Turner Conference after Joseph Turner, while the Southern Conference will be named the Berry Conference after the N. Thomas Berry.

N. Thomas Berry has been involved in the sport of hockey for nearly half a century as Commissioner Emeritus for the CHL and has been involved. He spent 13 years with the IHL Serving as their commissioner from 1989-1994 as he added 7 teams under his term. He currently resides in Indianapolis has served in many capacities covering the on-ice officiating all the way to running ind. teams. He was also involved in the short lived World Hockey Association (WHA) with the Indianapolis Racers.

Joesph Turner who was a goaltender from Windsor, Ontario who played for the Red Wings before WW2 also served with the US Army. He was later killed in December of 1944 during a battle in Belgium. He was an amateur goalie in the old Michigan-Ontario Amateur league which was the predictor of the International Hockey League playing for teams both in Detroit and Windsor. The Turner Cup was later named after him shortly after WW2 ended when the IHL was officially formed.

The Joseph Turner Trophy will serve as the Northern Conference Champions, while the N. Thomas Berry Trophy will be crowned as Southern Conference Champions.

Turner Conference (North)
Bloomington Prairie Thunder
Colorado Eagles
Dayton Gems
Ft. Wayne Komets
Evansville Icemen
Missouri Mavericks
Quad City Mallards
Rapid City Rush
Wichita Thunder


Berry Conference (South)
Allen Americans
Arizona Sundogs
Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs
Laredo Bucks
Mississippi Riverkings
Odessa Jackalopes
Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees
Texas Brahmas
Tulsa Oilers

2010-2011 Central Hockey League Schedule Announced

The schedule for the 2010-2011 season was just released moments ago as the CHL Regular Season will get underway on October 15 to start the 66 game season. One of the major highlights of opening weekend will be the D/FW Rivalry as the Allen Americans & Texas Brahmas will kick off with a Weekend series in Allen.

Other interesting matchups involving the Southwest Teams during opening weekend will be the South Texas Rivalry as the Laredo Bucks & Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees will hook up from Rio Grande City.

As for teams other in Odessa, Bossier-Shreveport and Tulsa. The Jackalopes who were ousted for the 2nd straight year in the Southern Conference Final will open up against the Missouri Mavericks and Quad City Mallards. This is part of a busy road schedule early on where 8 of the first 10 games will be on the road, the only exception will be a pair of home games against the Laredo Bucks on October 28 & 30.

Bossier-Shreveport will open with a home-and-home against the Mississippi Riverkings while the Tulsa Oilers will do the same thing against the Wichita Thunder on opening weekend.

Just like in previous years, a majority of the games will be on the weekends early on in the season. Then later on the league adds more week night games as we close in on the playoffs which begin in late March.

Some other interesting matchups starting out will be the Rapid City Rush playing in Ft. Wayne, Indiana playing the Komets and league power house Colorado taking on the Arizona Sundogs who finished last in the South last season.

Overall, the 66 game season will kick off on October 15 and will finish up on March 27. The Playoffs will have everyone except the last place teams in both conferences make the post-season which will begin in early April (More on why I don't like this idea in a later commentary).

Here's the Links for the Master Schedule & the Southwest Team Schedules.

CHL Website:

League Master Schedule:

Allen Americans:

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs:

Laredo Bucks:

Odessa Jackalopes:

RG Valley Killer Bees:

Texas Brahmas:

Tulsa Oilers:

Rapid City Blows out the Mudbugs to win the Northern Conference, To Face Allen for the Championship

After a Northern Conference Final that was just as exciting as the Southern Conference Final. The Rapid City Rush took their home ice advantage to good use as a 4 goal 1st period was used to run away from the Mudbugs and ultimately end their season.

Like many times this season, the Rush used their scoring depth with the 7 goals coming from 6 different players with Rich Hansen leading the way with 2 Goals and an assist. Other notable performances came from Scott Wray with 3 assists and Brendon Cook and Brenden Hodge with a goal and an assist each.

For the Mudbugs, Tyrel Lucas had a goal and an assist in a night where the team was just bombarded early and had a hard time recovering from the early crushing that saw them down 6-1 at one point. The Mudbugs are hoping to use this as a springboard to better things in the future as the team is looking to return to the glory days of the early part of the last decade.

From The Central Hockey League Website: www.centralhockeyleague.com

From Rapid City, South Dakota: On Wednesday Night, the Rapid City Rush lit up the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs for a 7-3 win and the Northern Conference Championship. The Rush will now take on the expansion Allen Americans for the Ray Miron Presidents Cup Championship, set to begin this weekend at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center. The Rush Offense exploded for four goals in the first period and seven total, both tying playoff highs for the young team.

Rapid City got started early, with Brendan Cook netting his fourth goal of the playoffs at 3:09. Defensemen Gio Flamminio fired a slapshot from the point and Cook was in the slot to deflect it home for a 1-0 lead. The Mudbugs were quick to answer when, off a faceoff circle, Simon Mangos rifled off a slapshot home less then two minutes later. The Rush would turn up the momentum with a pair of goals separated by just 20 seconds.

The first came at the 7:15 mark, Blaine Jarvis broke in on a partial and chipped in a backhand shot through Parker Van Buskirk to regain the lead. It was then Les Reaney who gave the Rush a 3-1 lead when he snapped a wrist shot from the left faceoff dot that rang off the far post and in. With under 4 minutes left in the first period, Jon Pelle circled behind the Bugs net and centered the pass that was jammed home by Rich Hansen. The 4-1 lead after 20 minutes marked the first time this postseason that the Rush lead heading into the first intermission.

Rapid City would make it 5 unanswered goals with a pair to start off the middle frame. The first was Brandon Hodge at 8:11 when his wrist shot made its way through a screen and home for his 2nd in the last 3 games. The 2nd came on the power-play when Rich Hansen collected his 2nd, cutting to the goal mouth and burying it 5 hole, ending Van Buskirk's night. Travis Clayton would finally stop the bleeding for the Mudbugs with a power play goal with just 32 seconds left in the period. Heading into the 3rd period, the Rush led 6-2.

In the third, the teams were exchanging goals beginning with Tyrel Lucas third of the playoffs cutting the lead to just 3 5:52 in. But with less then 4 minutes left in regulation, Derek Campbell would bring the game to its final 7-3 lead when he circled to the high slot and fired a snap shot past goaltender Torrie Jung.

Rapid City Wins Series 4-3, It will be the Allen Americans VS. Rapid City Rush for the 2010 CHL Ray Miron Presidents Cup Championship.

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 3 Rapid City Rush 7 (1-4, 1-2, 1-1)

0-1 RPC: Brendan Cook (Glamminio, Wray) 3:09 1st

1-1 BOS: Simon Mangos (Lucas) 4:41 1st

1-2 RPC: Blaine Jarvis (Hodge, King) 7:15 1st

1-3 RPC: Les Reaney (Grimison, Wray) 7:35 1st

1-4 RPC: Rich Hansen (Pelle, Fritshaw) 16:36 1st

1-5 RPC: Brendon Hodge (King, Wray) 8:11 2nd

1-6 RPC: Rich Hansen (PP) (Pelle, Leblanc) 10:22 2nd

2-6 BOS: Travis Clayton (PP) (Kyrzakos, Aikins) 19:28 2nd

3-6 BOS: Tyrel Lucas (Milam, Aikins) 5:52 3rd

3-7 RPC: Derek Campbell (Hasnen, Cook) 16:32 3rd


Game Stats

SOG: BOS 38 RPC 34

PP: BOS 1/6 RPC 1/5

PIM: BOS 13 Minutes on 5 Penalties RPC 12 Minutes on 6 Penalties

Goalies: BOS Parker Van Buskirk 20 SVS on 26 Shots Torrie Jung 7 SVS on 8 Shots RPC Danny Battochio 35 SVS on 38 Shots

ATT: 4058

3rd Star: Danny Battochio (RPC)

2nd Star: Scott Wray (RPC)

1st Star: Rich Hansen (RPC)

Huge Night of Southwest Playoff Hockey

3 Huge games across the Southwest will be going on tonight as the Central Hockey League Championship Series will be figured out tonight. With the All Texas Showdown between Odessa & Allen coming to a climax, we are guaranteed a team in the CHL Presidents Cup Championship this year from the Southern Conference.

However, the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs had a strong 2-0 Shutout Win from Parker Van Buskirk to get the team that was very strong in the early days of the CHL, just one win away from making it an Southwest Final. If Bossier-Shreveport wins, this would be the first All Southwest Championship Series since the 2003-2004 season when the Laredo Bucks beat the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs in a very tough 7 game series.

Both Series have been back and Fourth with some exciting moments. From Van Buskirk's first Pro Shutout to the explosive play of the Americans forward trio of Justin Bowers, Bruce Graham and Nino Musitelli throughout the season.

Both of the Game 7's will be taking place tonight. Odessa, Texas is the sight for the Southern Conference Final Game 7 as the Jackalopes will finally be looking to reach the Championship Series for the first time, while Allen is looking to reach the Championship in their first season.

The Northern Final Game 7 will be in Rapid City, South Dakota as the Rush will be looking to win make the Title in just their 2nd season. While Bossier-Shreveport is looking to return to the glory days when they won the Ray Miron Presidents Cup Championship back in 2001.

While the CHL will be determining the Championship Series, the Texas Stars will look to go up 3-0 and put themselves in great shape towards making the West Division Final as the West Division Semifinal heads to Rockford, Illinois for Game 3 tonight. The Stars have used a strong goaltending and a rockhard defense as the Stars have given up just 2 goals in the first 2 games.

Raymond Sawada has lead the team with 2 goals while Travis Morin has had 3 assists. Jamie Benn has also looked strong in a leadership role and also scored the team's first ever Playoff Goal in team history back in Game 1. Texas looks to keep the strong showings going as the Stars will look to make it a 3-0 series lead against the Rockford Icehogs up in Illinois tonight.

Regardless of where your from in the Southwest U.S.A, root for the teams and hope it's a big night to help these teams on the road to the League Championships at both the AHL & CHL Levels. We will know everything by late tonight, even if a long OT game is part, that would make it even better. Support your teams and cheer for the Southwest Region in tonight's Hockey Action.

All 3 Games will be huge tonight and should be exciting. Here's a look at tonight's schedule.

CHL Presidents Cup Playoffs


Southern Conference Game 7

Allen Americans VS. Odessa Jackalopes 7:05 PM in Odessa, Texas

Allen Americans Game Preview: www.allenamericans.com/articles/news.asp?articleid=317


Northern Conference Game 7

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs VS. Rapid City Rush 7:35 PM in Rapid City, South Dakota

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Game Preview: www.mudbugshockey.com/news/recent/index.html?article_id=681


AHL Calder Cup Playoffs

West Division Semifinals Game 3:

Texas Stars VS. Rockford Icehogs 7:05 PM in Rockford, Illinois


Texas Stars Preview: www.texasstarshockey.com/news/news/index.html?article_id=275

Parker Van Buskirk's Shutout forces Game 7 in Rapid City

A strong 27 save performance by Mudbugs starter Parker Van Buskirk has put a 2nd Game 7 on the schedule for tonight to determine who will be playing for the Ray Miron Presidents Cup Championship this season.

In addition to the shutout, 2nd period goals by Tyrel Lucas and Brett Smith were more then enough as the Mudbugs defense was able to keep the Rush's explosive offense off the board and keeping them 27 shots in the Game as the Rush slightly out-shot the Mudbugs 27-24 in the game.

Now it comes down to the Game 7's tonight with the winners playing for the League Championship which should be starting up sometime this weekend.

Here's a look at where the Championship Matchups would start pending on the outcomes tonight.

Odessa VS. Rapid City: Series Starts in Odessa

Odessa VS. Bossier-Shreveport: Series Starts in Odessa

Allen VS. Rapid City: Series Starts in Rapid City

Allen VS. Bossier-Shreveport: Series Starts in Allen


From the Central Hockey League Website: www.centralhockeyleague.com

From Rapid City, South Dakota: Parker Van Buskirk's first pro shutout helped the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs to a 2-0 victory over the Rapid City Rush in Game 6 of the Northern Conference Finals Tuesday Night at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center. The wins ties the best-of-7 series at three for Bossier-Shreveport, forcing a deciding a Game 7 tomorrow night here in Rapid City.

Van Buskirk stopped all 27 shots he saw to improve to 3-2 and earned his first pro shutout, regular season or playoffs. Tyrel Lucas and Brett Smith both scored on odd-man rushes in the 2nd period and the Bugs killed off all six Rapid City Power-Play on their way to the win.

Both teams looked sharp during a spirited first period in which the Mudbugs out-shot the Rush 10-7. Neither team found the back of the net though as both goaltenders came up with big saves. The Bugs opened the the scoring on a 2-on-1 break at 5:07 of the 2nd period when Tyrel Lucas sent a pass across Adam Basford, who gave the puck right back to Lucas for a tap in goal and a 1-0 lead.

Bossier-Shreveport added to the advantage midway through the 2nd period on another 2-on-1 break. Brett Smith and David Rutherford executed a nice give and go play that ended with Smith beating Danny Battochio high to the glove side at 9:45 of the 2nd period to make it 2-0 after 40 minutes.

The Rush out-shot the Bugs 9-3 in the third period and had three power play chances, but couldn't solve the Mudbugs Defense on their young goaltender to get on the scoreboard. Van Buskirk stopped numerous screened shots and rebounds in front to preserve the goose-egg as Rapid City failed to mount a late comeback.

With the 27 save effort, Van Buskirk earned the tenth shutout in Mudbugs playoff history and first since David Cacciola had one in the 2006 Conference Semifinals. Danny Battochio stopped 22 shots in goal for the Rush, who out-shot the Bugs 27-24. Neither team converted on the power play with Bossier-Shreveport finishing 0/3 and Rapid City finishing 0/6.

The Mudbugs will now play a Game 7 for the 4th time in team history tomorrow night in Rapid City as they try to advance to the Presidents Cup Finals for the 6th Time. The winner of tomorrow night's game will face the winner of Game 7 in the Southern Conference Final between Allen & Odessa, which is also being played Wednesday Night.


Series Tied 3-3


Game Boxscore

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 2 Rapid City Rush 0 (0-0, 2-0, 0-0)

1-0 BOS: Tyrel Lucas (Basford) 5:07 1st

2-0 BOS: Brett Smith (Rutherford, Ori) 9:54 2nd


Game Stats

SOG: BOS 24 RPC 27

PP: BOS 0/3 RPC 0/6

PIM: BOS 14 Minutes on 7 Penalties RPC Danny Battochio 22 SVS on 24 Shots

Goalies: BOS Parker Van Buskirk 27 SVS on 27 Shots RPC Danny Battochio 22 SVS on 24 Shots

ATT: 4520

3rd Star: Brett Smith (BOS)

2nd Star: Tyrel Lucas (BOS)

1st Star: Parker Van Buskirk (BOS)

Rapid City Responds with huge 3rd period, Rush take 3-2 Lead

A huge 3rd period by Rush forwards Brendon Hodge, Colt King & Blaine Jarvis helped turn what was a 1-1 game into a 4-1 lead where the Rush were able to explode the game wide open to put the Rush within 1 win of making the team's first ever Ray Miron Presidents Cup Final.

This would be just a year after finishing 6th in the Northern and 17 points out of the final playoff spot. All 3 forwards that scored last night were part of the secondary scoring as their top players like Scott Wray were held by the Mudbugs for most of the night. However, Wray did contribute 2 assists in the game including the Empty Netter which clinched the win in the Final Minute.

Bossier-Shreveport was looking to knockout both of the top seeds while losing just 1 game in the entire playoffs up to last night. Rapid City is in great position where a win either tomorrow or Wednesday Night will put them through to their first league Final.

From the Central Hockey League Website: www.centralhockeyleague.com

From Bossier City, Louisiana: Accomplishing what they wanted to, the Rapid City Rush took two of 3 games in Bossier-Shreveport thinks to a 4-1 game 5 win putting the 2nd year franchise on the brink of playing for Ray Miron President's Cup. The Rush will take their 3-2 series lead lead back to South Dakota with two chances of winning the series (Tuesday & Wednesday Night).

All the offense in the 1st period came within a 1:09 stretch with Brendan Cook scoring the game's first goal giving the Rush the 1-0 lead. He was matched by Justin Aikins goal tying the game at one goal apiece.

There would be no further scoring until the third period when Brendon Hodge, Colt King and Blane Jarvis all found the back of the net making a tight game through 40 minutes a bit one-sided.

Danny Battochio made 32 saves improving the side to 7-1 in the playoffs. Game six is scheduled for Tuesday Night at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center Arena.


Rapid City Rush Lead Series 3-2


Game Boxscore

Rapid City Rush 4 Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 1 (1-1, 0-0, 3-0)

1-0 RPC: Brendan Cook (Wray, Reaney) 4:34 1st

1-1 BOS: Justin Aikins (Rutherford, Lucas) 5:43 1st

2-1 RPC: Brendon Hodge (King, Leblanc) 4:06 3rd

3-1 RPC: Colt King (Weselowski) 13:03 3rd

4-1 RPC: Blaine Jarvis (EN) (Wray) 19:08 3rd


Game Stats

SOG: RPC 31 BOS 33

PP: RPC 0/1 BOS 0/3

PIM: RPC 6 Minutes on 3 Penalties BOS 2 Minutes on 1 Penalty

Goalies: RPC Danny Battochio 32 SVS on 33 Shots BOS Parker Van Buskirk 27 SVS on 30 Shots

ATT: 3088

3rd Star: Brendon Hodge (RPC)

2nd Star: Danny Battochio (RPC)

1st Star: Colt King (RPC)

The Mudbugs blast away the Rush for 6, Ties series at 2-2

This game was all Bossier-Shreveport as a late first period goal by Shawn Limpright lit up the Rush as everything went the Mudbugs way with a strong 6-1 win where this game was never in doubt as Limpright had a 3 point night (1G 2A).

While Jamie Milam had 2 assists while other players like Travis Clayton who had a goal and assist in the game to help bury the Rush and show the series that they are not out of this series, not even close.

This will give the Mudbugs huge momentum as they look to take a 3-2 series lead this weekend and to come within 1 win of getting back to the CHL Presidents Cup Championship Series.

From the Central Hockey League Website: www.centralhockeyleague.com

The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs entered game 4 with their back against the wall and boy did the Mudbugs respond. The Mudbugs pounded the Rapid City Rush 6-1 evening the best-of-7 Northern Conference Finals series at two wins apiece assuring a game six in Rapid City on Tuesday.

Jamie Milam continued his strong play with a pair of goals giving him 6 points (3G 3A) in eight post-season games. The Mudbugs built a 2-0 lead after one period thanks to late goals from Shawn Limpright and Milam.

The 2nd period belonged to the Bugs as well as they lit the lamp three straight times with Milam and Brett Smith scoring on the power play and David Rutherford striking even strength. The Mudbugs went 3/8 with the man advantage giving them 11 PP Goals in their last five games.

Parker Van Buskirk made 30 saves earning his second win in the series.

Riley Weselowski scored the only goal of the game for the Rush. The critical game 5 is scheduled for Saturday Night at the Century Tel Center. The winner will go up 3-2 and will be one win from the Ray Miron President's Cup Championship.


Series Tied 2-2

Rapid City Rush 1 Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 6 (0-2, 0-3, 1-1)

0-1 BOS: Shawn Limpright (Clayton, St. Croix) 15:07 1st

0-2 BOS: Jamie Milam (PP) (Blaznek, Kyrzakos) 19:44 1st

0-3 BOS: David Rutherford (Aikins) 2:10 2nd

0-4 BOS: Jamie Milam (PP) (Limpright, St. Croix) 4:36 2nd

0-5 BOS: Brett Smith (PP) (Blaznek, Ori) 14:10 2nd

0-6 BOS: Travis Clayton (Limpright) 0:20 3rd

1-6 RPC: Riley Weselowski (Hansen, Pelle) 14:02 3rd


Game Stats

PP: RPC 0/6 BOS 3/8

SOG: RPC 31 BOS 26

PIM: RPC 45 Minutes on 17 Penalties BOS 54 Minutes on 16 Penalties

Goalies: RPC Miguel Beaudry 20 SVS on 26 Shots BOS Parker Van Buskirk 30 SVS on 31 Shots

ATT: 3108

3rd Star: Jamie Milam (BOS)

2nd Star: Shawn Limpright (BOS)

1st Star: Parker Van Buskirk (BOS)

Rapid City holds off the Mudbugs in OT to take 2-1 Series Lead

A back & fourth game that saw the Rapid City Rush & Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs saw a 2-2 game going into the OT saw another unlikely hero for the Rush as Corey Laurysen who barely saw any playing time in the CHL This season scores his first goal of the playoffs to give the Rush a 3-2 win and a 2-1 series lead in the Northern Conference Final last night in Shreveport, Louisiana.



From the Central Hockey League Website: http://www.centralhockeyleague.com/



The Rapid City Rush outlasted the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs in Game 3 of their best of 7 Conference Final series prevailing in OT 3-2. All three games in the series have been decided by one goal and both Rush wins have come in overtime.

The Rush twice built one goal leads in regulation taking a 1-0 lead at the 6:20 mark of the 2nd period with defensemen Luke Fritshaw scoring his 2nd of the post-season. In the third period, Derek Leblanc scored his fifth playoff goal at the 9:20 mark regaining the lead 2-1 for Rapid City.

Both Mudbugs answers came on the power play with Jeff Kyrzakos scoring in the 2nd period evening the score at one and then in the 3rd period Chris St. Croix scored with the man advantage tying the game and ultimately sending the game to overtime.

The winning goal came from newcomer Corey Laurysen who joined the Rush for the post-season as he recorded his first playoff point in his fifth playoff game.

Danny Battochio improved to 6-1 in the playoff stopping 37 shots and his counterpart, Parker Van Buskirk had his second solid outing in place of Ken Carroll (injured) making 39 saves but it wasn't enough.

The Mudbugs went 2 for 6 on the power play and the Rush were stopped on all four chances they had. Game four is scheduled for Friday Night in Bossier-Shreveport.

Rapid City Rush Lead Series 2-1


Game Boxscore

Rapid City Rush 3 Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 2 (OT) (0-0, 1-1, 1-1, 1-0)

1-0 RPC: Luke Fritshaw (Pelle) 6:20 2nd

1-1 BOS: Jeff Kyrzakos (PP) (Limpright, Clayton) 7:48 2nd

2-1 RPC: Derek Leblanc (Reaney, Hodge) 9:20 3rd

2-2 BOS: Chirs St. Croix (PP) (Lucas, Aikins) 13:01 3rd

3-2 RPC: Corey Laurysen (Unassisted) 15:35 OT


Game Stats

SOG: RPC 42 BOS 39

PP: RPC 0/4 BOS 2/6

PIM: RPC 14 Minutes on 7 Penalties BOS 10 Minutes on 5 Penalties

Goalies: RPC Danny Battochio 37 SVS on 39 Shots BOS Parker Van Buskirk 39 SVS on 42 Shots

ATT: 2538

3rd Star: Parker Van Buskirk (BOS)

2nd Star: Danny Battochio (RPC)

1st Star: Corey Laurysen (RPC)

Bossier-Shreveport wins with Scoring Spread, Mudbugs Tie Series at 1-1

A great scoring spread took place that was led by Joe Blaznek with 3 assists with the 4 goals coming from 4 different players which includes a couple of unlikely scorers in Jamie Milam who had just 6 points all year and Simon Mangos who's stock is rising who raised his scoring totals as a defensemen from 8 to 12 goals over the course of this season and scored his 3rd point of the playoffs where the Mudbugs went up 4-1 late in the 2nd period.

Despite 3rd period goals by Rapid City Superstars Les Reaney and Blaine Jarvis couldn't get the game to OT for the 2nd straight time in this series and Mudbugs goalie Parker Van Buskirk who hardly played at all this season and was brought in to help relieve Mudbugs goalie Ken Carroll who's out with an injury was stout by stopping 26 of 29 shots including some important ones late with the Rush out-shooting the Mudbugs 10-6 in the 3rd period.

Both Conference Final Series are now tied at 1-1 and all 4 of the games being one goal games and two of those went to OT as we expecting some very long series' in this Conference Finals which should set the stage for a championship series that looks like it will be more & more exciting by the day.

The Northern Conference Final will now head to Shreveport for games 3,4 & 5 on April 14, 16 & 17 this week. If Bossier-Shreveport continue their strong home form from the 1st round against Colorado, the Mudbugs have a great shot of taking the advantage in this series as the Mudbugs will look to get back to the League Championship Series this season.

From the Central Hockey League: www.centralhockeyleague.com

The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs built a 4-1 lead on their way to an eventual 4-3 victory over the Rapid City Rush in Game 2 of the Northern Conference Finals Sunday at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center. With the victory, the Mudbugs even the best-of-7 series at one game apiece with the next 3 games to be played at the Century Tel Center.

Performing under the playoff microscope, goaltender Parker Van Buskirk made 26 saves to earn the win in his Mudbugs debut. The offense was paced by Joe Blaznek's three assists, while Jamie Milam scored the game-winner goal and assisted on another. Bossier-Shreveport also scored two more powerplay goals in the victory.

The Bugs skated to a 6-0 shot edge in the early going before Rapid City got nearly two full minutes of 5-on-3 powerplay time. Scott Wray opened the scoring during the two-man advantage to put the Rush on top 1-0 at 8:03. Bossier-Shreveport then seized the momentum and the lead late in the period when two powerplay goals in a 31 second-span. Justin Aikins started it off for the Mudbugs, shooting home the rebound of a Joe Blaznek shot in front to tie the game at one at 16:46. Simon Mangos then beat Danny Battochio with a long wrist shot through traffic to give the Mudbugs a 2-1 edge after 20 minutes.

The Bugs added to the lead with a pair of even-strength in the 2nd period. Blaznek sent a pass to the side of the net for David Rutherford, who backhanded the puck from Battochio's arm and into the net at 9:24 to make it 3-1. The lead became 4-1 for Bossier-Shreveport when Jamie Milam powered a slapshot into the net during a 3-on-2 break at 15:03. That goal chased Danny Battochio from the net as he was replaced by Miguel Beaudry.

The Rush came on strong in the 3rd period, starting with an unassisted goal by Les Reaney off a faceoff at 5:50. That turned the momentum into Rapid City's favor, and Blaine Jarvis got the home team back within one with just 3 minutes left in regulation. The Bugs were able to hold on in the final minutes, however to finish the 4-3 win and tie the series.

Van Buskirk is now 1-0 in his Mudbugs career, earning the win as the Mudbugs were out-shot 29-25 in the contest. Danny Battochio suffered his first playoff loss for the Rush after making 11 saves, while Miguel Beaudry stopped 10 saves in relief. Bossier-Shreveport scored twice on the powerplay chances and Rapid City finished 1 for 5.

The Mudbugs will now look to the lead in the best-of-seven series as its shifts to Bossier-Shreveport for the next 3 games. Game 3 is set for Wednesday night at 7:05 PM at the Century Tel Center.


Series is Tied 1-1


Game Boxscore

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 4 Rapid City Rush 3 (2-1, 2-0, 0-2)

0-1 RPC: Scott Wray (PP) (Vanderveeken, Hodge) 8:03 1st

1-1 BOS: Justin Aikins (PP) (Blaznek, Milam) 16:46 1st

1-2 BOS: Simon Mangos (PP) (Blaznek, Ori) 17:17 1st

1-3 BOS: David Rutherford (Blaznek, Kalinchuk) 9:24 2nd

1-4 BOS: Jamie Milam (Limpright) 15:03 2nd

2-4 RPC: Les Reaney (Unassisted) 5:50 3rd

3-4 RPC: Blaine Jarvis (Wray, Bostock) 17:25 3rd


Game Stats

PP: BOS 2/7 RPC 1/5

SOG: BOS 25 RPC 29

PIM: BOS 17 Minutes on 7 Penalties RPC 21 Minutes on 9 Penalties

Goalies: BOS Parker Van Buskirk 26 SVS on 29 Shots RPC Danny Battochio 11 SVS on 15 Shots Miguel Beaudry 10 SVS on 10 Shots

ATT: 4150

3rd Star: Scott Wray (RPC)

2nd Star: Joe Blaznek (BOS)

1st Star: Jamie Milam (BOS)

Scott Wray and Les Reaney lead Rapid City to OT Win in Game 1

Like Saturday's game in West Texas, the opening game of the Northern Conference Final saw OT and just like the Southern Conference Final as well, it's a great back and fourth where the teams All-Stars took over the game.

The third period saw a wild affair which started with Clay Plume scored just 2 minutes into the 3rd period to tie the game at 2-2. However, Rapid City's Scott Wray scored his 4th of the post-season to put the Rush up 3-2. He would later force OT with a goal with just 3 and a half minutes left in the third period to make it a 4-4 game.

Then Wray played the role of set up man to help Brendan Cook set up Les Reaney's game winner 5 minutes into the extra period to help the Rush take the opening game of the series against the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs.

Game 2 will be taking place tonight in Rapid City, S.D. as the Rush will look to go up 2-0 and have a huge advantage in looking to make the team's first ever Presidents Cup Final.

From the Central Hockey League Website: www.centralhockeyleague.com

From Rapid City, South Dakota: In Game one of the Northern Conference Final, the Rapid City Rush came-from-behind to tie the game and eventually triumph in OT taking a 1-0 series lead over the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs. Les Reaney scored three points in the game including the game winner in overtime lifting his team to the 5-4 win.

Scott Wray scored a pair of goals and had an assist and it was his second goal with three and a half minutes left in regulation that sent the game to overtime. Derek Campbell had a goal and an assist for the Rush aiding the offense.

Former Rapid City Defensemen Clay Plume lead the offense for the Bugs with a pair of goals, both in the third period.

The Mudbugs scored three times in the third period holding a 4-3 lead before Wray's heroics.

Danny Battochio had 20 saves in the game improving to 5-0 in the playoffs. Ken Carroll took his first loss of the playoffs despite making 39 saves. Game two is scheduled for Sunday Night in Rapid City.


Rapid City Rush Lead Series 1-0

Game Boxscore

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 4 Rapid City Rush 5 (OT) (1-1, 0-1, 3-2, 0-1)

0-1 RPC: Derek Leblanc (Pelle, VanderVeeken) 0:28 1st

1-1 BOS: Joe Ori (PP) (St. Croix, Carroll) 8:35 1st

1-2 RPC: Derek Campbell (Flamminio) 6:57 2nd

2-2 BOS: Clay Plume (Kyrzakos, Clayton) 2:50 3rd

2-3 RPC: Scott Wray (Campbell, Reaney) 3:08 3rd

3-3 BOS: Simon Mangos (PP) (Smith, Blaznek) 8:44 3rd

4-3 BOS: Clay Plume (Rutherford, Lucas) 13:14 3rd

4-4 RPC: Scott Wray (Reaney) 16:23 3rd

4-5 RPC: Les Reaney (Cook, Wray) 5:06 OT


Game Stats

SOG: BOS 24 RPC 44

PP: BOS 2/4 RPC 0/5

PIM: BOS 10 Minutes on 5 Penalties RPC 8 Minutes on 4 Penalties

Goalies: BOS Ken Carroll 39 SVS on 44 Shots RPC Danny Battochio 20 SVS on 24 Shots

ATT: 5078

3rd Star: Clay Plume (BOS)

2nd Star: Scott Wray (RPC)

1st Star: Les Reaney (RPC)

Bossier-Shreveport Complete Sweep of Colorado, Advances to North Conference Final

From the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Website: www.mudbugshockey.com

The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs completed a 4 game sweep of the Colorado Eagles with a 4-2 victory in game 4 of the Northern Conference Semifinals Thursday Night at the Century Tel Center. The win gives the Mudbugs their first triumph in a best-of-seven series in three seasons and sent them to the Northern Conference Final for the first time since 2006. Bossier-Shreveport will now face either Rapid City or Missouri in the third round of the 2010 CHL Playoffs.

Ken Carroll had a big night for the Mudbugs, making 36 saves to hold off the high-scoring Eagles and earn his third straight win of the series. Shawn Limpright and Tyrel Lucas each had a goal and an assist as the Bugs built a 3-0 lead on their way to sweeping a playoff series for the fifth time in their history and the first since 2001.

The Mudbugs came out firing early on, gaining the advantage with a pair of powerplay goals. Limpright tapped in a Jamie Milan pass on the doorstep at 4:18 to start the scoring for the home team. Bossier-Shreveport then tallied on it's second man-advantage as well as Tyrel Lucas slid a pass into the shot for Justin Aikns, who beat Anrew Penner top-shelf to make it 2-0. The lead became 3-0 late in the period as Limpright made a nice play around the defense to get the puck in front to Travis Clayton, who chipped in his third of the playoffs at 17:52.

Colorado got on the board in the second frame, needing just eight seconds worth of a power play to get Ed Mcgrane's goal out of a scramble in front and cut the lead to 3-1 in the first minute. The Bugs extended the lead to 4-1 midway through the 2nd period when Lucas redirected Jim Jorgensen's shot past Penner at 10:51.

The Eagles skated to a 15-7 shot advantage in the third, but couldn't beat Carroll to close the gap until Ryan Tobler scored on a backhanded shot in front with 1:05 left in regulation. The Bugs finished off the last minute to earn their second playoff series win over Colorado after being swept by the Eagles last year.

Andrew Penner suffered the loss, making 30 saves as Colorado out-shot the Bossier-Shreveport 38-34 on the night. The Bugs converted two of 5 power plays chances, while the Eagles scored on 2 of 6 opportunities.

The Mudbugs will now await their opponent for the Northern Conference Finals as the other Northern Semifinal plays out. Top-seeded Rapid City leads #5 Missouri 3-0 into the series heading into game 4 tomorrow night at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center.

Schedules and Ticketing information for round three will be released as soon as they are determined. For more info, call the team office at 752-BUGS or visit www.mudbugshockey.com


Bossier-Shreveport Wins Series 4-0, The Mudbugs will advance to the Northern Conference Final.


Game Boxscore

Colorado Eagles 2 Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 4 (0-3, 1-1, 1-0)

1-0 BOS: Shawn Limpright (PP) (Milam, Kyrzakos) 4:18 1st

2-0 BOS: Justin Aikins (PP) (Lucas, Pszenyczny) 11:37 1st

3-0 BOS: Travis Clayton (Limpright) 17:52 1st

3-1 COL: Ed Mcgrane (PP) (Mcleod, Jackson) 0:50 2nd

4-1 BOS: Tyrel Lucas (Jorgensen, Rutherford) 10:51 2nd

4-2 COL: Ryan Tobler (PP) (EA) (Schneekloth, Nelson) 18:55 3rd


Game Stats

SOG: COL 38 BOS 34

PP: COL 2/6 BOS 2/5

PIM: COL 14 Minutes on 7 Penalties BOS 16 Minutes on 8 Penalties

Goalies: COL Andrew Penner 30 SVS on 34 Shots BOS Ken Carroll 36 SVS on 38 Shots

ATT: 3888

3rd Star: Tyrel Lucas (BOS)

2nd Star: Shawn Limpright (BOS)

1st Star: Ken Carroll (BOS)

Mudbugs Put the Eagles on Brink of Elinmation

From the Central Hockey League: www.centralhockeyleague.com

Travis Clayton and Shawn Limpright each finished with a goal and an assist as the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs defeated the Colorado Eagles 3-1 to take a 3-0 series lead in the Northern Conference Semifinals Tuesday at the Century Tel Center. The Mudbugs will now have a chance to sweep the series on Thursday night in Game 4 and advance to the Northern Conference Finals.

Ken Carroll stopped 24 of 25 shots as the Bugs shut out Colorado until the final minute of regulation of all Eagles five power plays along the way. Dave Pszenyczny also scored for the 3rd consecutive game to help the Bossier-Shreveport built its first 3-0 series lead since the 2001 post-season.

Both teams had a few near-misses in a back-and-fourth first period in which the Mudbugs held a 9-6 shot advantage. On a late Power-Play Opportunity, Jamie Milam's point shot was deflected on its way through and Limpright knocked in the loose puck on the doorstep to give the Mudbugs a 1-0 advantage with just 22 seconds left in the first period.

Early in the 2nd frame, Clayton redirected a long wrist shot by Chirs St. Croix, sending it past Colorado netminder Mike Mole to make it a 2-0 Mudbugs lead. Pszenyczny extended the lead to 3-0 at 11:38, joining a rush as he exited the penalty box and getting a pass from Clayton before beating Mole on the stick side. The Bugs also killed Three Eagles powerplays in the middle period to take a three-goal lead into the locker room.

Colorado out shot Bossier-Shreveport 8-2 in the third period, but couldn't find the back of the net until Riley Nelson scored with 57 seconds left to break up Carroll's shootout bid and provide the final 3-1 margin.

Carroll is now 30-21 in his playoff career after his second win of the series, while Mike Mole made 17 saves and took the loss in his first action of these playoffs. Bossier-Shreveport converted 1 of 5 power plays chances while being out-shot 25-20 for the game.

The series now continue Thursday night with Game 4 as the Mudbugs try to complete the four-game sweep and advance to the third round of the CHL playoffs. Opening faceoff is set at 7:05 PM presented by Willis-Knighton Sports Medicine.


Special Group Tickets packages and Mudbugs single game playoff tickets are on sale now. For more info., call the team office at 752-BUGS or visit www.mudbugshockey.com . Individual tickets to all Mudbugs Home Games are available at the Century Tel Center main box office, through Ticket Master at 318-741-9700 or online at www.ticketmaster.com


Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Lead Series 3-0

Game Boxscore

0-1 BOS: Shawn Limpright (PP) (Kyrzakos, Milam) 19:37 1st

0-2 BOS: Travis Clayton (St. Croix, Limpright) 2:44 2nd

0-3 BOS: David Pszenyczny (Clayton, St. Croix) 11:38 2nd

1-3 COL: Riley Nelson (EA) (Tobler, Mcgrane) 19:03 3rd


Game Stats

SOG: COL 25 BOS 20

PP: COL 0/5 BOS 1/5

PIM: COL 14 Minutes on 7 Penalties BOS 12 Minutes on 6 Penalties

Goalies: COL Mike Mole 17 SVS on 20 Shots BOS Ken Carroll 24 SVS on 25 Shots

ATT: 2882

3rd Star: Shawn Limpright (BOS)

2nd Star: Ken Carroll (BOS)

1st Star: Travis Clayton (BOS)

Mudbugs Claim 2nd Straight to take over Series

From the Central Hockey League Website: www.centralhockeyleague.com

Make it two in a row for the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs vs. the Colorado Eagles as the Bugs won for the 2nd straight night in Colorado by a 4-3 score. The win gives the Mudbugs a commanding lead as they head home for three straight games and a chance to win the series.

Joe Blaznek, Joe Ori, and Brett Smith all scored a goal and had two assists as the Mudbugs fell behind but came right back tying the game just under a minute and a half after Ed Mcgrane's first period gave Colorado their only lead of the night.

Ken Carroll made 26 saves earning the win as he was summoned into action midway through the first period after John Decarlo left the game. Game three is scheduled for Tuesday night in Bossier-Shreveport.

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Lead Series 2-0


Game Boxscore

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 4 Colorado Eagles 3 (1-1, 1-1, 2-1)

0-1 COL: Ed Mcgrane (PP) (Tobler, Ulanski) 14:33 1st

1-1 BOS: David Pszencyczny (Ori, Milam) 15:57 1st

2-1 BOS: Joe Blaznek (Ori, Smith) 6:19 2nd

2-2 COL: Ryan Mcleod (PP) (Schneekloth, Lutes) 12:53 2nd

3-2 BOS: Brett Smith (Blaznek) 1:46 3rd

3-3 COL: Kevin Ulanski (Tobler, Jackson) 3:50 3rd

4-3 BOS: Joe Ori (Smith, Blaznek) 6:12 3rd


Game Stats

SOG: BOS 23 COL 47

PP: BOS 0/2 COL 2/2

PIM: BOS 6 Minutes on 3 Penalties COL 6 Minutes on 3 Penalties

Goalies: BOS John Decarlo 18 SVS on 18 Shots Ken Carroll 26 SVS on 29 Shots COL Andrew Penner 19 SVS on 23 Shots

ATT: 5289

3rd Star: Brett Smith (BOS)

2nd Star: Joe Blaznek (BOS)

1st Star: Joe Ori (BOS)

OT Goal by Joe Blaznek cap Game 1 Comeback

From the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Website: www.mudbugshockey.com

Joe Blaznek scored just 42 seconds into OT to complete the a furious rally and lift the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs to a 4-3 victory over the Colorado Eagles in Game 1 of the Northern Conference Semifinals Friday Night at the Budweiser Events Center. The Mudbugs hold a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series after winning game 1 for the first time in the last 8 playoff series.

Bossier-Shreveport trailed 3-0 entering the third period, but scored three times in a span of just 3 minutes to tie it up and force the OT Session. Blaznek then ended the game in the first minute of the extra session to give the Bugs 1-0 playoff series for the first time since the 2006 their opening series in the 2006 playoffs.

The Mudbugs got off to a great start in the opening period, out-shooting the Eagles 14-6 and generating a few good scoring chances. Colorado did take a 1-0 lead into the locker room though as Jim Jackson's long shot from the wing bounced off John Decarlo's arm and then off the post before finding the net at 2:14 of the first period.

The 2nd period brought more of the same with Bossie-Shreveport skating to a 12-9 shot advantage but still unable to solve Andrew Penner. The Eagles scored twice more in the 2nd period, going up 2-0 when Decarlo stopped Riley Nelson shot from the left circle only to see the rebound bounce off a skate and into the net at 5:34. Later in the period when Ed Mcgrane broke down the left wing and fired a shot into the top corner to extend the lead to 3-0 for Colorado after 40 minutes.

The Bugs then stormed back in the third starting when Adam Hogg was whistled on a four-minute double minor for high sticking. Shawn Limpright started the scoring at 8:10, redirecting a Jeff Kyrzakos shot past Penner to get the Mudbugs on the board. On the 2nd half of the double-minor, Tyrel Lucas got a pass from Chris St. Croix and beat Penner from the bottom of the circle to make it 3-2.

With Colorado on the Power Play just over a minute later, Brett Smith created a shorthanded 2 on 1 break and found David Pszenyczny, who buried the game-tying goal at 11:11. Decarlo made a number of big saves in the third preserve the tie and force OT.

In the first minute of OT, Colorado turned the puck over in their own zone and Blaznek jumped on it, roofing a hard wrister top-corner over Penner's glove to give Bossier-Shreveport the 4-3 win.

John Decarlo stopped 20 shots in the game as the Mudbugs out-shot the Eagles 37-23. Andrew Penner made 33 saves in his first-ever loss to the Bugs. Bossier-Shreveport converted 2 of 7 powerplay chances, while Colorado finished 1 for 4.

The Bugs will now look to take a 2-0 series' lead tomorrow night in Game 2 at the Budweiser Event Center. Opening face off is once again at set for 8:05 PM Central Time with radio coverage starting at 7:45 PM on AM 1130 KWKH. The game will also be shown live online on CHL-TV.


Bossier-Shreveport Leads Series 1-0.

Bossier-Shreveport VS. Colorado Boxscore


@ Budweiser Events Center

Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs 4 Colorado Eagles 3 (OT) (0-1, 0-2, 3-0, 1-0)

0-1 COL: Jim Jackson (Lutes) 2:14 1st

0-2 COL: Riley Nelson (PP) (Schneekloth, Ulanski) 5:34 2nd

0-3 COL: Ed Mcgrane (Jackson) 13:55 2nd

1-3 BOS: Shawn limpright (PP) (Kyrzakos, St. Croix) 8:10 3rd

2-3 BOS: Travis Clayton (PP) (Lucas, St. Croix) 10:06 3rd

3-3 BOS: David Pszenyczny (SH) (Smith, Mangos) 11:11 3rd

3-4 BOS: Joe Blaznek (Unassisted) 0:42 OT


Game Stats

SOG: BOS 37 COL 23

PP: BOS 2/7 COL 1/7

PIM: BOS 8 Minutes on 4 Penalties COL 14 Minutes on 7 Penalties

Goalies: BOS John Decarlo 20 SVS on 23 Shots COL Andrew Penner 33 SVS on 37 Shots

ATT: 5289

3rd Star: Jeff Kyrzakos (BOS)

2nd Star: Jim Jackson (COL)

1st Star: Joe Blaznek (BOS)

Central Hockey League Conference #2 VS. #3 Semifinals Series Schedules

As the Central Hockey League Play In Rounds are going on as the winners will take on the Odessa Jackalopes and the Rapid City Rush.

The other 2 series are now set and we will show you the schedules for the 2nd and 3rd seeded teams in both the Northern Conference as League Powerhouse Colorado Eagles will take on the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs. Colorado has been the team to beat in the regular season in recent years as the Eagles have lost in the Championship Series big time by the Arizona Sundogs in 2008 and the Texas Brahmas last year.

If the Eagles get back to the Presidents Cup Final for the 3rd straight year, the Eagles will look to put the disappointment of the last 2 years behind them as the team has the experience like Ed Mcgrane and Kevin Ulanski who tons of big game experience.

Bossier-Shreveport haven't been past the Conference Semifinals since 2007 as the Mudbugs have been sweeped out of the playoffs the last 2 seasons as they were shocked by the Brahmas in 2008 after finishing with the top seed in the regular season.

Then last year, the Mudbugs lost in a 4 game sweep of Colorado where they lost all 4 games by a single goal, including 2 games in OT in last year's Northern Conference SF. Bossier-Shreveport will look for revenge as the Mudbugs and Eagles will face off in the postseason for the 2nd straight year.

Meanwhile in the South, its the league's biggest surprise this season as the Americans had one of the best seasons by a first year team in league history after winning an impressive 42 games this season, and will be looking to perhaps be the biggest challenger to the Odessa Jackalopes in the Southern Conference Playoffs. The Americans will be taking on the Laredo Bucks who's looking to get back to the Conference Finals after losing to Odessa in the Conference Semifinals last year.

Laredo is looking to continue its great end of the regular season as the Bucks were able to pull away from the Brahmas for the 3rd spot. If the Bucks win their 1st Round Series against Allen, Odessa could be interesting as the last 3 head-to-head games went to a SO.

Here's a look at the top players and Schedules for the Conference Semifinals. Look for the #1 VS. #4/#5 Series after the Play In Round finish up.

Northern Conference

#2 Colorado Eagles VS. #3 Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs

Colorado Eagles Regular Season Record: 42-15-7 91 PTS, 277 GF 208 GA

Colorado Leading Scores
Kevin Ulanski 64 GP 109 PTS (34G 75A)
Riley Nelson 64 GP 94 PTS (31G 63A)
Ed Mcgrane 62 GP 89 PTS (44G 45A)

Colorado Goaltending
Andrew Penner 34 GP 22-8-5 2.98 GAA .902 SV%
Mike Mole 34 GP 20-7-4 3.34 GAA .894 SV%


Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Regular Season Record: 38-22-4 80 PTS, 213 GF 180 GA

Bossier-Shreveport Scoring Leaders
Shawn Limpright 60 GP 53 PTS (18G 35A)
Joe Blaznek 64 GP 50 PTS (23G 27A)
Travis Clayton 60 GP 50 PTS (18G 32A)

Bossier-Shreveport Goaltending
John Decarlo 39 GP 24-14-3 2.73 GAA .912 SV%
Ken Carroll 27 GP 14-8-5 2.61 GAA .920 SV%

All Colorado Eagles Home Games are @ Budweiser Events Center

All Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Home Games are @ Century Tel Center

Game 1, 3/26: @ Colorado 8:05 PM

Game 2, 3/27: @ Colorado 8:05 PM

Game 3, 3/30: @ Bossier-Shreveport 7:05 PM

Game 4, 4/1: @ Bossier-Shreveport 7:05 PM

Game 5, 4/2: @ Bossier-Shreveport 7:05 PM*

Game 6, 4/6: @ Colorado 8:05 PM*

Game 7, 4/7: @ Colorado 8:05 PM*

*If Necessary


Southern Conference


#2 Allen Americans VS. #3 Laredo Bucks

Allen Americans Regular Season Record: 42-17-5 89 PTS, 210 GF 183 GA

Allen Scoring Leaders
Bruce Graham 64 GP 79 PTS (31G 48A)
Justin Bowers 49 GP 73 PTS (23G 50A)
Nino Musitelli 62 GP 63 PTS (23G 40A)

Allen Goaltending
Chris Whitley 43 GP 31-8-5 2.60 GAA .914 SV%
David Mckee 5 GP 2-3-0 3.95 GAA .897 SV%
Alexandre Vincent 4GP 1-3-0 3.79 GAA .858 SV%


Laredo Bucks Regular Season Record: 32-20-12 76 PTS 218 GF 215 GA

Laredo Scoring Leaders
Jeff Bes 64 GP 75 PTS (19G 56A)
Darryl Smith 61 GP 71 PTS (35G 36A)
Evan Schwabe 52 GP 48 PTS (13G 35A)

Laredo Goaltending
Kevin Desfosses 18 GP 8-7-3 3.33 GAA .904 SV%
Pier-Olivier Pelletier 17 GP 9-4-3 2.88 GAA .915 SV%


All Allen American Home Games are @ Allen Event Center

All Laredo Bucks Home Games are @ Laredo Energy Center

Game 1, 3/26: @ Allen 7:30 PM

Game 2, 3/27: @ Allen 7:30 PM

Game 3, 3/30: @ Laredo 7:05 PM

Game 4, 4/1: @ Laredo 7:05 PM

Game 5, 4/3: @ Laredo 7:05 PM*

Game 6, 4/6: @ Allen 7:30 PM*

Game 7, 4/7: @ Allen 7:30 PM*

*If Necessary