Tornado ends Showcase use strong offense again to win 6-4 over the Austin Bruins

The Texas Tornado ended the NAHL Blaine Showcase with a 6-4 win over the Austin Bruins as the Tornado are sending a message that they indenty will be a firing squad as for the 3rd time in 4 games, the Tornado posted 40+ shots in the win.

Perhaps the one to watch will be Rock Einersen who finished with a Showcase high 10 points (4G 6A) including a 3 point performance back on Saturday Afternoon.

Other big performances came from J.D. Howard and Jack Prince as both of them increased their assists totals to 4 during the season opening showcases as both players will be watched closely by different NCAA Teams this season.

If your looking for what to expect for the Tornado this season. It's going to be a high octane offense as the team scored 17 goals in the 4 games. However, to be a serious contender in what's looking to be a very strong South Division, the defense needs to show up as they also gave up 17 goals to end with an even goal differential.

Can they get this fixed in the early portion of the season, time will tell, but with this strong offense this will put a lot less pressure on the defense to protect goalies Jake Stafford & Josh Hillegas?

After the Showcase, they won't have much time to get ready for what will be another busy season. Friday Night will see them head to the Panhandle to face the Amarillo Bulls, then on Saturday & Sunday Night will be their home opener against the Fairbanks Ice Dogs.


Press Release for the Texas Tornado

Austin Bruins 4 Texas Tornado 6 (2-1, 0-1, 2-4)

Austin Bruins VS. Texas Tornado Photos

The Texas Tornado met the expansion Austin Bruins to close out the Showcase for both teams. Texas sitting on a 1-1-1 record was looking for a win to equal their mark in last year's tournament while Austin at 1-2-0 were trying to even their record .500 in their first ever Showcase.

The Bruins would strike first when Connor Quinn cleared the puck off the far boards, then James Dickinson and Kevin Thomassoni worked to give and go springing Dickinsion for a clear path to the goal and he put the puck past Jake Stafford. Time of the goal was 8:05.

The Tornado would answer just over seven minutes later while on the Power Play as Donald Olivieri found the back of the net for his first point of the season with Ralfs Freibergs and Jack Prince picking up assists on the play.

Rock Einersen was hit with a cross checking minor at the 18:39 mark sending the Bruins on a late power play. With just 34 seconds left in the period Jonathan Gehrt sent a booming slap shot post a screened Stafford to give Austin a 2-1 lead. Charlie Adams was credited with the lone assist.

The Bruins made a bid to increase the lead on the ensuing faceoff. Alex Tesensky got a good bounce and went straight down the slot on a breakaway splitting the Tornado defensemen. Stafford stood tall and turned away the scoring chance with the stick.

Shots on goal were 19-10 in favor of the Tornado, but they trailed 2-1 on the scoreboard. The lone goal of the 2nd period came via the stick of Tornado Rookie Jon Mottiqua. The Tornado had an extended stay in the Austin Zone and had peppered multiple shots at Keegan Asmundson. Michael Zigari grabbed a rebound and fed the puck to Mottiqua at the top of the far circle and he fired it under Asmundson to pull the Tornado even to 2-2 a piece.

Shots on goal were again in favor of the Tornado 11-5.

The tone for the third period was set as early as 57 seconds into the period the Tornado took a one goal lead. Strong play along the boards by Einersen freed the puck and Freibergs hit Jackson Leef with a pass at the top of the far circle. Leef skated the puck in and fired a shot off Asmundson's shoulder. Leef stayed with the play, grabbed his own rebound and from just beyond the crease on the stick side he went stick side he went high over the blocker.

The Tornado would score again at the 4:46 mark on Tyler Underhill's first of the season with the assists going to Leef and J.D. Howard.

The Bruins would fight their way back into the contest with two goals by Jeremy Finger. The first coming at 8:32 with assists by Dickinson and Nolan Kirley. The second came with the Tornado on the power play when Dickinson picked off a Tornado pass and hit Finger streaking into the zone to knot the score at four.

However, the Tornado would not say die and 32 seconds later would take the lead for good. David Rigatti pulled the puck from a scrum along the boards and Mico Solorzano found Einersen alone on the backdoor to put the Tornado up 5-4.

With just under 1:30 left, Austin pulled their goalie for the extra attacker. They were applying pressure in the Tornado Zone when a shot from the point went off a Tornado shin pad. Einersen grabbed the loose puck and flipped it the length of the ice into the open net for the final 6-4.

The Tornado led in shots 11-3 for the period and 41-18 for the game. The Power Play got back onto the scoring sheet going 1-6 after failing to score against Coluee Region, while the penalty killing went 1-2.

There were some bright spots for the Tornado coming out of the Showcase. The offense led in shots on goal in all but 2 periods and out-shot their opponents 172-102 over the four days. Rock Einersen sets at 10 points with four goals and six assists. J.D. Howard also has four goals and an assist for 5 points.

The Tornado are going to put points on the board this season, but they must find ways to cut down on the turnovers and defensive breakdowns. It is early so as the defensive pairings gel the goalies should face fewer odd man rushes.

Tornado get Their Bell rung in 5-2 loss to Coulee Region

After a pair of solid games to start out the NAHL Blaine Showcase, Coulee Region who are from Wisconsin had their way in the 3rd of 4 Showcase Games as the Coulee Region Chill beat the Tornado 5-2 and it was the only game of this Showcase as the Tornado were held to under 40 shots on goal and failed to score on the power play.

After a scoreless first period, the Tornado had a strong start to the 2nd period as Dallas Natives Axel Boyer and Marc Biggs each teamed up for their first points of the year to make it 1-0. Not even a minute later, Robert Morris University Commitment David Rigatti scored his 2nd goal of the Showcase from Rock Einersen to make it 2-0.

However, Coulee Region came-back with 2 quick goals of their own by Lucas Dillion and Berkely Scott each scored within 2 minutes apart to tie the game at 2-2.

Then late in the 2nd & early in the 3rd it was 3 goals in 7 minutes which was divided by the 2nd intermission as the Chill ran away from the Tornado to get the 5-2 win as the Chill looked very impressive last week with a 3-0-1 record with wins over Pt. Huron & Kenai River as well. The only loss for the Chill last week was a 2-1 OT Loss against league powerhouse St. Louis and find themselves leading the North-Central Division.

A huge factor for the Tornado loss was a kneeing major by Jack Prince just 20 seconds into the 3rd period which allowed the Chill to score on the 5 MIN PP twice which turned what was going to be a close game into a run-away which got away from them.

This was the first regulation loss for the Tornado and if it weren't for the Kneeing Major by Prince, the Tornado could have gone as well as 3-1 if it weren't for some bad luck the Tornado had in OT against the Motor City Metal Jackets on the opening night of the Showcase. At this point in the Showcase, the Tornado are 1-1-1 for 3 points.


Press Release from the Texas Tornado

Texas Tornado 2 Coulee Region Chill 5 (0-0, 2-3, 0-2)

Texas Tornado VS. Coluee Region Photos

Texas ran into a hot goalie in the person of of Paul Moberg of the Coulee Region Chill. The first period was back-and-fourth with both teams unable to generate many real scoring chances until Joe Adams was hit with a high sticking minor with 1:08 left in the period. The Chill set up their power play and were rotating the puck well. A shot from the far point was turned aside by Jake Stafford and right onto the tape of a Chill player just off the near post. Stafford made a strong move across the goal and threw out the blocker to keep the game scoreless at the end of the first.

Shots on goal were 12-7 in favor of the Chill and it appeared that Coluee Region had a bit of momentum starting the 2nd period with clean ice and 50 seconds of power play remaining.

The second period started with the Tornado killing off the power play and then they grabbed the lead with two quick goals. The first coming at 2:54 into the period as the Tornado came into the zone with speed. Tyler Mort fired a shot from the right circle when Moberg turned aside. Marc Biggs grabbed the rebound and threw it off the Collie Goalie from the high slot. The rebound found its way Axel Boyer stationed just off the stick side and went high over a sprawled Moberg.

Adams picked up a Cross Checking minor at the 9:35 mark putting the Tornado back on the Penalty Kill. It took Lucas Dillion less then 30 seconds to capitalize on the opportunity pulling the Chill to within one. Scott Berkley would tie the score at the 12:28 mark and Erick Drapluk would put the Chill ahead for good with a minute, fifty five left in the period.

Shots on goal were 18-10 in favor for the Tornado in the period.

Any shot the Tornado had to crawl back into the game were eliminated by a Kneeing Major called on Jack Prince just 20 seconds into the third period. Prince came across the ice to challenge a Chill clearing attempt and collided with the Chill player behind the play.

Coluee Region made the most of the five minute power play notching goals by Matt Bloomquist and Zac Frischmon.

Shots on goal were 20-11 in favor of the Chill. The Tornado Power Play was kept off the board for the first game going 0-4 while the Chill were 3/6.

Corpus Christi dismantles Owatonna 5-1 with fast start

A very fast start which included the hero from the win over Fresno had the opening goal of the game just 3 minutes helped slowly but surely est. a game that would eventually dismantle the Owatonna Express 5-1 which also had big performances from Beau Walker with 2 goals, Mike Benedict with a goal & 2 assists, as well Sam Cheraso & Scott Gleason who each had 2 assists in the 1st period where the Icerays went up 3-1 through the first intermission.

Then in the 2nd period it was where the Express had nothing going for them despite getting 18 shots on goal in the last 2 periods. However, nothing could break through the tough Icerays defense as goals by Beau Walker and Kevin Crowe scored to make it 5-1.

This team is beginning to come together after the sluggish preseason and the Showcase Opener where they lost 1-0 to Traverse City. Currently the Icerays are at 2-1 and are looking like a more-and-more solid team on the ice and they look to explode when they play their home opener on October 1 when they play the Wichita Falls Wildcats.

Until then, the Icerays will help close the Showcase with a game against the league's only Canadian Based team in the Dawson Creek Rage at 3:45 PM Tomorrow.

Owatonna Express 1 Corpus Christi Icerays 5 (1-3, 0-2, 0-0)

Corpus Christi Icerays News & Notes

From Greg Rajan of the Corpus Christi Caller

From Blaine, Minnesota: Very little came easy for the Icerays entering Friday Morning Game. But after forth a complete performance, there was little to quibble over afterward.

Corpus Christi put together its most polished outing of the North American Hockey League Season, dismantling the Owatonna Express 5-1 at the Schwan Super Rink on the third day of the NAHL'S Showcase Tournament.

The Icerays, (2-1, 4 PTS) got opportunistic scoring, strong team defense and a 29 save outing from goalie Phoenix Copley in his Junior A debut, leaving coach Brent Hughes quite pleased.

"It was leaps and bounds better then the first two hockey games," Hughes said. "I fell we've made strides. I thought we controlled the play most of the game. It was a great hockey game for our team. We did a lot of good things - we put the puck in the net and kept it out of ours."

Beau Walker scored twice while Mike Benedict a goal and two assists. After being shutout in two preseason games and the season opener, the Icerays have scored five times in each of their two victories.

"The Floodgates have opened," Walker said. "We're definitely working better together. Coach changed the line-ups after the first game and it's been working good.

"It's just shooting the puck more. It's definitely changing our prespective. Were shooting the puck more and scoring more goals."

Copley got his first start after Marco Wieser was in net for the first two games. Copley was caught out of position on a wraparound on Owatonna's first goal, but was solid after that.

"I was a little bit nervous, but I felt ready to go was confident," Copley said. "Our defense was strong. There were doing a lot better job of covering guys in the (defensive) zone and keeping shots from the outside. That's was really helped me out there."

The Icerays started quickly, Jacob Diamond, who scored the winner with 12.3 seconds left Thursday, knocked in a loose puck near the post at 2:51. Owatonna tied the score less then two minutes later, but Corpus Christi responded with a pair of goals 8:06 apart to seize control.

At 9:24, Walker coming down the right side, snapped a wrist shot to the far side that nestled in under the crossbar.

Benedict converted on the power-play at 17:30, walking in from the left circle and put a shot on net that made it's way through traffic and past goalie Tommy Burke.

Walker then struck again early in the 2nd period, finishing a back-door feed from Benedict at the left post at 4:54.

The Icerays added a crushing marker in the frame's final seconds. Corpus Christi won an offensive zone face-off and from the inner edge of the right circle, Kevin Crowe pumped a wrist shot under Burke's blocker with 6.1 seconds left.

"The guys aren't gripping their sticks near as hard as they were," Hughes said. "Usually at this level, the goals are more grinding and around the net. There were some pretty goals today that you usually don't normally see."

Tornado Power Play comes up big in win over Kenai River

After getting edged out in OT on Wednesday against the Motor City Metal Jackets, the Tornado Power Play had some great moments as the power play went 3/7 and out-shot the Brown Bears by a huge margin of 41-16 in the game.

It was another huge game for J.D. Howard as his 2 goals take him up to 4 already for the Showcase. While other players like Rock Einersen (1G 1A) and Jack Prince (2A) who each had a pair of points that netted the Tornado's first win of the season and of the Showcase.

As for Kenai River, this takes them to 1-1 with their next game coming up this afternoon against the Michigan Warriors at 4:45 PM. While the Tornado have an early afternoon game against the Coluee Region Chill.


Press Release from the Texas Tornado Website

Texas Tornado VS. Kenai River Brown Bears Photos

Kenai River Brown Bears 3 Texas Tornado 5 (1-2, 2-0, 0-3)

From Blaine, Minnesota: Three more power-play goals, a truckload of shots and this time... the first Tornado win of the season. The Texas Tornado netted three goals in the 3rd period en route to a 5-3 win on Thursday Night against the Kenai River Brown Bears at the 2010 NAHL Showcase in Blaine, Minnesota. For the 2nd straight game, the Tornado scored three power play goals and badly out-shot their opponent. This time against the Kenai River Brown Bears it would be a 41-16 shot advantage for the Tornado.

The 1st period started well for Texas as just 2:44 into the game, David Rigatti scored his first goal of the season on the power play after a nice backdoor pass from line-mates Jack Prince and Rock Einersen. The lead would be erased less then three minutes later as Kenai River defensemen Erik Peerson slapped home a drive from the past Tornado goaltender Josh Hillegas, who were making their first NAHL Start. The Tornado would regain the lead thinks to the power play thinks to J.D. Howard's 3rd goal of the young season as he followed up a nice individual effort by Jackson Leef to get the puck to the net with another assist to Tyler Rostenkowski.

The 2nd period saw the momentum shift towards Kenai River as they out-shot the Tornado in the middle frame 2-0 to take a 3-2 lead. Daniel Turgeon snapped one past Hillegas after a Tornado turnover at the face-off deep in the Tornado zone. Then, Brett Lubanski made it 3-2 with a backdoor goal that snuck underneath Hillegas.

The Tornado fought back in the third period in large part to more special teams magic. J.D. Howard scored his 4th goal of the season to tie the game at 3-3 with helpers from Jackson Leef. The Tornado took the lead for good with their 3rd power play goal of the night as Mico Solorzano picked up a loose puck at the top of the point and slapped home the eventual game winner from Ralfs Freibergs and Jack Prince. After killing off a late penalty, Rock Einersen added an empty net goal for the eventual 5-3 win.

The Tornado are back in action on Friday September 17 at 1:45 PM against the Coluee Region Chill, who also have three points through 2 games of the Showcase. Fans can listen and watch the game live on www.fasthockey.com

Amarillo gets Edged by the Fresno Monsters

A back-and-fourth game that saw the Bulls lead the Fresno Monsters 3-1 midway through the game turned into 4-3 loss for the Bulls against the Monsters in the team's 2nd Game at the Blaine Showcase. Things were looking great as the Bulls were clicking well as goals by Smoot in the 1st period as well Johnson & Freeman in the 2nd period had the Monsters on the ropes, but the tide began to turn near the end of the 2nd with a power-play goal by Bjorklund with 35 seconds left made it 3-2.

The third was going well for the Bulls as they were able to stay out of the box and get some shots that were looking to put the game away. But the Monsters were potent as they scored on 2 goals on just 3 shots late in the 3rd to give the Monsters their first victory in the North American Hockey League.

Next up for the Bulls who are currently 1-1 at the Showcase is a late one as they will get the Pt. Huron Fighting Falcons at 8:00 PM tonight.

Press Release from the Amarillo Bulls Website

Amarillo Bulls 3 Fresno Monsters 4 (1-0, 2-2, 0-2)

From Blaine, Minnesota: The Amarillo Bulls surrendered two goals in the final five minutes of the game, and dropped a 4-3 decision to the Fresno Monsters in the 2nd game of the North American Hockey League Showcase on Thursday Night in Blaine, Minnesota.

The Bulls dropped to 1-1 and will look for their second win on Friday Night when they face the Pt. Huron Fighting Falcons at 8:00 PM.

Amarillo had a 3-2 advantage lead entering the third period of play and couldn't score on a 5-on-3 that could have extended the advantage. Fresno scored back-to-back goals just over 4 minutes and 30 seconds apart to take the lead. The Bulls pulled their goaltender in the final minute but failed to get the equalizer.

In the opening period, the Bulls notched the first goal when Smoot followed up a loose rebound and put it in the back of the net at the 7:07 mark. Joe Kozlak and Mitch Rogge added assists on the play.

The Fresno Monsters had their best opportunity to score on a breakaway but their forward was denied by goaltender Greg Lewis.

After the Monsters tied the game early in the 2nd period, the Bulls took over, scoring two goals in just 29 seconds apart.

First, newcomer Terrance Johnson, who was added to the roster late last night, scored on assists from Steven Oberzanick and Chris Cass. Cody Freemen made it a 3-1 contest when he scored unassisted. Fresno added a goal on the power play to make it 3-2.

The Fresno Monsters out-shot the Amarillo Bulls 26-23, including 15-5 in the 2nd period. The Bulls had the shot advantage in both the first and third periods. Amarillo was 0/8 on the powerplay while the Monsters were 1/4.

The Amarillo Bulls take on the Pt. Huron Fighting Falcons on Friday Night at 8:00 PM in their third game of the Showcase. Fans can tune into the action at ESPN 1440 AM beginning with the pre game show at 7:45 PM. The game is also available on Pay-Per-View courtesy of Fast Hockey, but a high speed Internet connection is required to view the contest.

In just over a week the Amarillo Bulls will play their home opener against the Texas Tornado at 7:00 PM at the Bull Pen at the Amarillo Civic Center. Season Tickets, Flex Packages and single game tickets are currently available and for further info. call 806-242-1122 or visit the Amarillo Bulls Website

Garavaglia, Wildcats shutout 2 Time West Division Champions

It was a much different game then the season opener against the Chicago Hitmen, but a great shutout performance by goalie Eric Garavaglia.

As well late goals by Dakota Klecha and Chris Leone both scored in the final four minutes of the game to shutout the 2 Time West Division Champion Wenatchee Wild 2-0 to-go-to 2-0 in the Showcase. And have temporally taken over the top spot in the league's South Division.

It was a shutout performance from the defense as the Wildcats to just 26 shots and didn't allow double digit shot totals in all the periods of play.

Wenatchee Goalie Marcuz Zelzer had a strong performance as well by stopping 27 of 29 Wichita Falls Shots and were able to neutralize players like Michael Di Puma and Zach Frye who are spouse to 2 of the team's biggest offensive weapons this season as the Wild will look to win a third straight West Division Title this season, while the Wildcats look to rebound after finishing 5th in the South Division and didn't make the playoffs last year.

Next up for the Wichita Falls Wildcats is Friday Afternoon at 1:15 PM as they will take on the defending Robertson Cup Champion Bismarck Bobcats in what will be the strongest test for the Wildcats this week.

If they can play well and maybe even pull off an upset, this will be a statement game for the Wildcats that they could be a major player in the South Division this season.

In addition to yesterday's Game Summary, here's a story from Greg Rajan about the Wichita Falls Wildcats New Head Coach.

Late Coaching Change doesn't hurt Wildcats

From Greg Rajan of the Wichita Falls Times Record News

Wenatchee Wild 0 Wichita Falls Wildcats 2 (0-0, 0-0, 0-2)

From Blaine, Minnesota: Unlike their opener, there wasn't a gusher of goals for the Wichita Falls Wildcats on Thursday. However, there likely was a more rewarding feeling when they skated off the ice.

In a tight defensive battle, Wichita Falls edged the Wenatchee Wild 2-0 on the second day of the North American Hockey League Showcase Tournament at the Schwan Super Rink.

The Wildcats (2-0, 4 PTS) were buoyed by a 26 save shutout from Goalie Eric Garavaglia, who made his first start in the Wichita Falls Net and put up a stellar performance.

"What can you say when your goalie gets a shutout? He was definitely on top of his game," Wildcats head coach Mark Lerose said. "I was very happy with our goaltending."

"This win is definitely more satisfying. It's great to win a game 8-1 (on Wednesday over Chicago), but with a 0-0 game going late in the third period, it was very rewarding to come out with a 2-0 victory."

The match was evenly played until the Wildcats broke out the ice with a few minutes a spare. With 4:07 left in the third period, Wenatchee Defensemen Geoff Ferguson was sent off for checking from behind, giving the Wildcats a late power play.

Wichita Falls set up in the offensive zone, with Drew Allen, near the faceoff dot, sending a cross ice pass to Dakota Klechia in the right circle. Klechia, with a half open net facing him, buried the feed pass goalie Marcuz Zelzer at 16:10 for the games first goal.

"I just saw the puck and looked at the net and saw it was wide open," said Klecha, who scored twice in Wednesday Opener. "I just tried to get it there and I did. It was an awesome feeling.

It also eased the pressure considerably on Garavaglia at the other end.

"In my mind, it was stay relaxed and keep doing the same thing I was doing," he said. "Don't change anything and don't get too excited - just stay calm.

"It was a big relief (when Klecha scored). I knew we could keep the puck out of the net for (the final 3:50). I knew I could with the kind of game I was playing and my mindset."

Defensemen Chris Leone gave the Wildcats some insurance by beating Zelzer with a right wing circle wrist shot at 18:51.

The Wildcats wouldn't have been in position to win if not for the work of Garavaglia, with two critical saves waving sticking out.

Late in the 2nd period, a bad Wichita Falls line change gave Wenatchee a two-on-none rush, but Garavaglia somehow made a toe save with his left skate.

Then about six-and-a-half minutes into the third period, he denied the Wild's Nathan Sliwinski on what appeared to be an open-net rebound at the right post.

"He kept us in it throughout the whole game," Klecha said. "And a lot of them were good scoring opportunities."

"This was a lot more exciting then Wednesday. Wenatchee is a very good team and we beat them, so everybody's talking about us and how good we are."

Jacob Diamond's Last Second Goal gives the Icerays their first win 5-4

A back-and-fourth games between the Icerays and the struggling Hitmen had over 100 shots on goal combined, not many penalties and lots of great chances, but when the dust settled the Icerays came away with the teams first win of the year in another close hard fought game where the early jitters from yesterday's game against the Traverse City North Stars were gone.

And went full throttle starting in the middle of the first period as Sam Cheraso scored a SH Goal to lit the fire of the Icerays after getting shutout yesterday. The Icerays are starting to show the NAHL that they can be a strong force in the league's South Division.

The 2nd period was when things starting getting heated when the Icerays made it 2-0, but after that, the Hitmen used 2 late goals to take a 3-2 lead going into the third.

The third period had a slow start getting started because of the penalties, but two Icerays goal by Ben Hughes and Kevin Crowe got the Icerays going again and a 4-3 lead. The lead and momentum didn't last long when James Albrecht scored with 4 minutes left to tie the game at 4-4.

In a game where the Icerays would head to OT, both teams were looking for a hero when Jacob Diamond scored with just 12 seconds left to give the Icerays their first win in the North American Hockey League.

So far through 2 games, it's hard to tell what kind of team the Icerays are going to be, but we have seen they will not be allowed to be blown out like we saw yesterday when despite getting out-shot by huge margins against Traverse City, the team only lost 1-0.

Then it could have gotten out of control late in the 2nd but they fought back midway through the 3rd period that lead to the win. This team is going to opponents frustrations and make them fight for every inch this season regardless of what kind of team the Icerays have.


From Greg Rajan of the Corpus Christi Caller

Chicago Hitmen 4 Corpus Christi Icerays 5 (0-1, 3-1, 1-3)

From Blaine, Minnesota: The goals finally came for the Icerays. And after a few hair-raising moments, they skated off the with their first North American Hockey League Showcase Victory.

Corpus Christi rallied for three third period goals, including Jacob Diamond's winner with 12.3 seconds left, to edge the Chicago Hitmen 5-4 on Thursday Afternoon at Schwan Super Rink.

"Honestly, I don't think it's something to be taken too seriously," Diamond said of his team's first victory. "I think it's a start and shows everyone what we can do. I don't think we should take it out of proportion because it means that we have to come back and continue to build each game."

Diamonds goal was capped off a wild few minutes that saw the Icerays take the lead, lose it and then win it thanks to a nice step-up from line-mate Beau Walker.

With the clock ticking towards extra time, Walker - who finished with a goal and two assists - carried the puck wide on the left wing and sent a crossing path to Diamond charging down the opposite side. Diamonds quick redirection beat goalie Michael Coulter to break the deadlock.

"It was a great play on Beau Walker's part," coach Brent Hughes said. "He got the puck, drove it wide and brought a a lot of time for Diamond to go to the net, and Diamond finished off. That's exciting hockey right there."

The Icerays - who were shut out in 2 preseason games and again in Wednesday's Game against Traverse City - finally found the net, taking the 2-0 lead on goals from Sam Cheraso and Walker.

But Chicago responded with three second period goals, the latter two on the power play, and seemed to have the momentum.

But the Icerays got momentum from their penalty kill, which erased a two-minute, five-on-three Chicago Advantage after Hughes was given a bench minor for berating referee Stephen Thompson because of an 8-to-1 power play disparity in Chicago's favor.

"That was the game," Hughes said of the critical penalty kill.

Minutes later, Icerays defensemen Ben Hughes tied the score with a power-play goal from the left point at 13:25. Just 20 seconds later, Kevin Crowe beat Coulter from the left circle to give the Icerays the lead.

After managing just 17 shots on Wednesday, the Icerays peppered Coulter with 54 on Thursday, shooting from everywhere.

"We felt like as a team the past couple games, we were passing up way too many opportunities from the blue line," Ben Hughes said. "We've just got to bear down and get pucks through. Coach was really stressing that to the defensemen today."

Then the Icerays had to survive a hairy five minutes. Chicago's James Albrecht tied the score with 4:34 left and Diamond's final tally, Icerays goalie Marco Wieser had to make three saves in the final seconds.

"Getting a win is the most important thing," Brent Hughes said. "We have a ton of work to do with these guys. We're slowly getting better and it's going to take some time."

Wichita Falls Crushes the Hitmen

Wichita Falls ran into a struggling Chicago Hitmen team where after 3 losses last weekend in their pre showcase action, the Hitmen got crushed from a flury of goals throughout the game to get an 8-1 win. It was also the first victory for new head coach Delarose who took over for Mike Flanagian who took a job with the AHL's Norfolk Admirals just before the season started.


It's starting to look like the Chicago Hitmen will be struggling this year in the East Division which includes teams like the Traverse City North Stars, St. Louis Bandits and the Janesville Jets this season.


Next up for the Wichita Falls Wildcats against the Wenatchee Wild tomorrow afternoon.

From Greg Rajan for the Wichita Falls Times Records News

Game Boxscore

From Blaine, Minnesota: It would be hard to stop the first impression the Wichita Falls Wildcats made on Wednesday Afternoon.

The Wildcats opened the North American Hockey League Showcase with a flourish, pummeling the Chicago Hitmen 8-1 at Schwan's Super Rink.

That made a winner of Derek Lerose in his debut behind the Wichita Falls bench a little more then two weeks after he was wired to replace Mike Flanaigan, who left to be an assistant with the AHL's Norfolk Admirals.

"I'm very happy about the result," Lerose said. "I saw a lot of very good things. But still, as a coach, you're never completely happy and there are a lot of things to work on."

The Wildcats certainly got off to an auspicious start, taking three penalties in the first 11 minutes. But they managed to kill off those infractions, setting a tone for the rest of the game.

The other half of the Wichita Falls Wildcats special teams then came through late in the first. Drew Allen and Sean Keane knocked home power play rebounds a little more then three minutes apart for a 2-0 lead.

"After they called three penalties on us, we were getting a little down," said forward Dakota Klecha, who finished with two goals and two assists. "Then we started and we got back into the grove of things. Then we just started rolling."

Mac Olsen scored just 35 seconds into the middle period. His score seemed to sting the Hitmen in a major way. Wichita Falls turned the game into a rout with two more second period goals from Drew Hildebrandt and Klecha.

"Anytime its 2-0, the next goal is huge," Larose said. "It's 3-0 or 2-1 and when we went up by 3 goals, I think they got a little deflated."

Lost in the offensive bonanza was the solid workplace put in by goalie Tyler Green, who rebuffed 33 of 34 Hitmen Shots in his first Wildcats start. His lone blemish came when Chicago scored on a five-on-three advantage when the game was already out of hand. But Green seemed to have more fun watching things unfold at the other end.

"I loved what I was seeing in the crease," he said. "We got out to a big cushion and guys were playing well in front of me. I loved the way my defense was playing and blocking shots. They don't get much credit, but they did really well."

However, despite the lopsided win, there was one glaring negative: The constant parade to the penalty box. The Wildcats found themselves on the penalty kill 13 times to just five for Chicago.

"I'm extremely concerned," Lerose said. "That is uncharacteristic of my teams and that's definitely my biggest concern coming out of this game."

Texas losses heart breaker in OT against Motor City

Despite a questionable penalty and some bad luck where players like Rock Einersen hit the posts not once but twice. The Texas Tornado showed a lot of great things in their season opener up in Blaine as the Tornado have shown that they can shoot, after a combined 95 shots in the 2 preseason games against the Club Team from Oklahoma University, the Texas Tornado were able to pepper an impressive 52 shots on goal during the game.

Also this could be the beginning of a huge year for Rock Einersen who had 4 points (1G 3A) and could have at least another goal if it weren't for a post shot. Also Jack Prince had an assist while JD Howard had 2 goals as well in the 2nd period as a part of a 3 goal explosion where they scored 3 times in 2 minutes late in the 2nd to go from a 2-1 deficit for a 4-2 lead going into the 2nd intermission.

Despite a 5-4 loss against the Motor City Metal Jackets, the team shown that they can return to being a force in the South Division and are looking to challenge the South Division Favorite Topeka Roadrunners who's going to host the NAHL Robertson Cup Championship Tournament this year.

Also the PP showed some strong signs of being able to be a huge factor as the team went 3/9 on the extra man as well.

Next up for the Texas Tornado will be the Kenai River Brown Bears who since entering the league, have been in the West Division Cellar. Yesterday, the Brown Bears beat the Springfield Jr. Blues 4-1.


Press Release from the Texas Tornado

Game Boxscore

Texas Tornado VS. Motor City Metal Jackets Photos

From Blaine, Minnesota: It's a point that got away. The Texas Tornado opened up their 2010-2011 season with a 5-4 Overtime loss to the Motor City Metal Jackets on Wednesday Night at the NAHL Showcase. The Tornado lead 4-2 going into the 3rd period, but two Metal Jackets goals in the first six minutes squandered the lead. The Metal Jackets would win in overtime as a Tornado Penalty in the extra frame lead to a 4-on-3 power play for Motor City, who converted for the win.

The game did not start well for the Tornado, as they were down 2-0 after the first five minutes. Momentum would pick back up however later in the 1st period as Rock Einersen collected a loose puck in front of Metal Jackets Goalie Max Milosek and slip one home for the first goal of the year to make it 2-1 going into the 2nd period.

The 2nd period was all Tornado, as they took a 4-2 lead into the lockeroom by scoring three power play goals in the frame. J.D. Howard tied the game at 2-2 as he crashed the net and pooked home a loose puck after the original shot from Einersen. Less then two minutes later, Howard would score his second of the night on a 5-on-3 power play, as he smashed home a backdoor pass from Jack Prince to give the Tornado their first lead of the net at 3-2. The Tornado were in command, when Ralfs Freibergs shot from the point went past a screened Milosek with a helper from Einersen to increase the Tornado lead to 4-2.

However, Motor City was the more fired up team to start up the third period as the crept back within a 4-3 on a Tornado defensive turnover that lead an uncontested breakaway goal by Andrew Graves, who beat the Tornado Goalie Jake Stafford on a backhand. The Metal Jackets only needed a few more minutes to tie the game at 4-4, Steve Brancheau scored his second goal of the night on a point-blank pass. The Metal Jackets had several chances to take the lead in regulariton, including two shorthanded breakaways, but Stafford would deny all the chances as the game headed into OT.

In the OT a Tornado penalty spelled doom as Motor City worked the 4-on-3 power play to perfection as Cody Wydo slipped a shot from the low crease between Stafford's legs for the game-winner. The Tornado ended up with a 54-26 shot advantage and do get a point for the OT Loss. The Tornado are back in action, Thursday, September 16 at 5:00 PM vs. the Kenai River Brown Bears. The game can be seen live on Fast Hockey

NAHL Blaine Showcase Scoreboard, Day 1

Here's a look at the scores from Day 1 at the NAHL Blaine Showcase up in the Twin Cities. For the Southwest Teams, it's been a mixed bag so far as Amarillo & Wichita Falls have beaten Michigan & Chicago today, while the New Mexico Mustangs got blasted by the Janesville Jets and the Corpus Christi Icerays had a fustrating day against Traverse City in a 1-0 loss.

Currently the Texas Tornado are on the ice in their season opener against the Motor City Metal Jackets. Other action tonight involves the Topeka Roadrunners VS. Alexandria Blizzard & the Owatonna Express VS. Wenatchee Wild.

Look for the last 3 games late tonight to see the links to the Boxscores.

Alaska Avalanche 8 Aberdeen Wings 5 (2-0, 2-2, 4-3)

Corpus Christi Icerays 0 Traverse City North Stars 1 (0-1, 0-0, 0-0)

Michigan Warriors 3 Amarillo Bulls 4 (1-2, 2-1, 0-1)

Fairbanks Ice Dogs 3 Austin Bruins 4 (SO) (0-2, 1-1, 2-0, 0-0, 0-1)

Bismarck Bobcats 7 Fresno Monsters 2 (6-0, 0-1, 1-1)

Pt. Huron Fighting Falcons 2 Coulee Region Chill 5 (0-2, 0-2, 2-1)

Wichita Falls Wildcats 8 Chicago Hitmen 1 (2-0, 3-0, 3-1)

St. Louis Bandits 3 Dawson Creek Rage 0 (0-0, 0-0, 3-0)

New Mexico Mustangs 0 Janesville Jets 7 (0-3, 0-4, 0-0)

Springfield Jr. Blues 1 Kenai River Brown Bears 4 (0-0, 0-1, 1-3)

Owatonna Express 3 Wenatchee Wild 5 (0-0, 0-3, 3-2)

Topeka Roadrunners 6 Alexandria Blizzard 4 (4-0, 1-3, 1-1)

Texas Tornado 4 Motor City Metal Jackets 5 (OT) (1-2, 3-0, 0-2, 0-1)

Day 1 Recap


Here's a look at tomorrow's schedule.

Coulee Region Chill VS. St. Louis Bandits 10:00 AM

Bismarck Bobcats VS. Springfield Jr. Blues 10:15 AM

Chicago Hitmen VS. Corpus Christi Icerays 10:30 AM

Janesville Jets VS. Alaska Avalanche 1:15 PM

Motor City Metal Jackets VS. Topeka Roadrunners 1:30 PM

Traverse City North Stars VS. Austin Bruins 1:45 PM

Wenatchee Wild VS. Wichita Falls Wildcats 2:30 PM

Pt. Huron Fighting Falcons VS. Owatonna Express 4:30 PM

Dawson Creek Rage VS. Alexandria Blizzard 4:45 PM

Kenai River Brown Bears VS. Texas Tornado 5:00 PM

Aberdeen Wings VS. Michigan Warriors 7:45 PM

New Mexico Mustangs VS. Fairbanks Ice Dogs 8:00 PM

Amarillo Bulls VS. Fresno Monsters 8:15 PM

Despite a 39 save performance, fustration dominates in 1-0 loss to Traverse City

It might been just a 1-0 loss for the Corpus Christi Icerays in their season opener, it looked like it could have been much worse if it weren't for Marco Weisner's 41 save performance that helped keep the team in the game.

From failing to convert on 7 power plays to not pouncing on opportunities, it just wasn't a great day over for the Icerays despite the boxscore against the defending North Division Champion Traverse City North Stars who are looking to return to the NAHL Robertson Cup Championship this year.

It was just frustrating all the way around from the South Texas Team that's looking to rebound later this week to help open the season.

Corpus Christi Icerays 0 Traverse City North Stars 1 (0-1, 0-0, 0-0)

From Greg Rajan of the Corpus Christi Caller

From Blaine, Minnesota: As far as openers go, the Icerays probably won't want to reash much of what happened Wednesday.

Corpus Christi's first game in the North American Hockey League was riddled with mistakes and inconsistency, dooming the Icerays in a 1-0 loss to the Traverse City North Stars at Schwan's Super Rink.

The Icerays, in the first of four games this week at the NAHL's Showcase Tournament, never could get their offense going, as they were out-shot 42-17 and out-chanced by a good margin. And that came after being shut out in a pair of exhibition losses to NAHL Powerhouse Topeka last weekend.

"Were not shooting enough and not getting the offense we need to," coach Brent Huges said. "We had a couple of chances in shooting areas and we're looking to dish the puck or make the pretty play."

"I know we're going to go through the ups and downs, but its a tough lost to a 1-0 hockey game. You know in a game you usually get a goal somewhere, it'll trickle in, go off a guy's butt or leg pad. They're just not going in for us. Hopefully it'll come in bunches here shortly."

Icerays goalie Marco Wieser was saddled with the tough luck loss. He turned in a strong effort, making 39 saves. The only blemish was at 6:15 of the first period, when Traverse City's Eric Fragoso scored on a two-on-one rush from the right wing after Corpus Christi Defensemen Jason Souva was caught up ice.

"He played pretty solid for us," Hughes said of Wiesner. "He gave us a chance to stay in the hockey game."

North Stars Goaile Tyler Marble stopped all 17 shots he faced, with his best save coming early in the third period, when Cody Miliigan was denied on a one-timer from the slot.

The Icerays also missed on a prime chance during a second period power play, when Shane Gleason shot wide from the right wing circle with Marble down in front of the net.

"I think we're passing more then were shooting and I think we should be shooting from everywhere," forward Sam Cheraso said.

Corpus Christi cut a frequent path to the penalty box, killing off all seven penalties in the first 40 minutes.

"The Penalties killed us, too," Cheraso said. "It's not all the refs fault. It's our fault for putting ourselves in the position for them to call them."

With the opener out of the way, players looked ahead to Thursday's Game against the Chicago Hitmen.

"There definitely were (jitters) for me," forward Derek Schartz said. "The hands were too tight on the stick and were way to jittery."

"I don't think were snakebit. As soon as we get the first (goal), we're going to be all right."

Amarillo edges the Michigan Warriors to win Showcase Opener

It was one of the first true back-and-fourth games at the 8th annual NAHL Blane Showcase in Blaine, Minnesota. But the both the Bulls & Warriors were looking for a strong introduction into the North American Hockey League, after going up 2-0 in the first 11 minutes, the Michigan Warriors responded with goals late in the first and in the opening minute of the 2nd period to tie at 2-2.

After that, it looked like the Michigan Warriors were going to open it up as the Warriors pulled 22 shots on goal in the 2nd period, Mac Height came up big with 21 of 22 saves in the 2nd period. That helped Chris Cass score with 8 minutes left to regain a 3-2 lead.

After going into the 2nd intermission tied at 3-3 after a late goal for Michigan late in the 2nd, both teams played very cautiously in the 3rd period looking not to give up a possible late winner, however it came to Joe Kozlak who scored his 2nd point of the game to give the Bulls a 4-3 win to win the team's first ever game.

It's only one game, but hopefully this can be something that can springboard to big time success this week in Minnesota. They have proven that they have a strong special teams by scoring twice on the PP and killing off some critical penalties.

Michigan Warriors 3 Amarillo Bulls 4 (1-2, 2-1, 0-1)

Press Release from the Amarillo Bulls Website

From Blaine, Minnesota: What a way to start the season for the Amarillo Bulls.

Joe Kozlak jammed home the game winning goal with under 8 minutes remaining in regulation time to lift the Amarillo Bulls past the Michigan Warriors 4-3 in the opening game of the North American Hockey League Showcase, here on Wednesday Morning.

Kozlak's goal was the lone goal in the final 20 minutes as he took a feed from Mitch Rogge and dashed into the Michigan Zone. Luke Jenkins added an assist on the goal. It was an exciting game as both teams skated hard for the entire 60 minutes. Four of the seven goals were scored on the power play. Goaltender Nikifor Szczerba was solid in goal for the Bulls, making 34 saves and keeping Michigan off the board in the final period.

The Bulls penalty killing was put to the test, especially in the third period, killing off a 5-on-3 and later a 5-on-4 in the final two minutes.

The Bulls opened the scoring at the 2:07 mark of the opening period when John Rey fired a loose rebound into the Warriors Net. Dan Sherer and Ryan Taylor earned assists on the goal.

The Bulls made it 2-0 on the power play with Derek Hills wired a slapshot threw a screen from Steven Oberzanik and Joe Kozlak.

The Warriors would battle back to tie the game 2-2 with a goal late in the first period and another to open the 2nd. Amarillo regained the lead when a Derek Hills point shot was tipped by Chris Cass. Cody Freeman had the other assists on the goal. Michigan tied the game again 3-3 with a goal in the final five minutes.

The Michigan Warriors out-shot the Amarillo Bulls 37-23. There were a total of 17 power plays with each team scoring twice.

The Amarillo Bulls return to action in the 2nd day of the NAHL Showcase, when they face the Fresno Monsters. Fans can tune into all the action on ESPN 1440 AM beginning with the pregame show at 8:00 PM. The Face off is at 8:15 PM. The game is also available on pay-per-view courtesy of Fast Hockey; a high speed Internet connection is required in order to watch it.

It's less then two weeks till the home opener of the Amarillo Bulls on Friday, September 24, when they face off against the Texas Tornado at 7:00 PM at the Bull Pen in the Amarillo Civic Center. Season tickets, flex packages and single game tickets are available. For further info, visit www.amarillobulls.com or call the box-office at 806-242-1122.

Twitter Updates during NAHL Blaine Showcase

Be sure to look for my twitter page starting today through Saturday as the North American Hockey League (NAHL) will kick off the season opening Blaine Showcase up at the Schwan Super Rink today. Schwan Super Rink is one of the biggest public rinks in the country boasting of 8 ice rinks, numerous practice facilities and workout areas for teams and players of all sizes and ability levels.

The Showcase gets going in a little over an hour with the Alaska Avalanche taking on the expansion Aberdeen Wings at 10:00 AM. As for Southwest Teams, the Amarillo Bulls will hit the ice at 10:30 AM against the Michigan Warriors. Also the Corpus Christi Icerays will get underway this morning at 10:15 AM against the North Division Champion Traverse City North Stars as they look to defend the Division Championship and get back to the Robertson Cup Tournament this year in Topeka, Kansas.

For full schedule and stats updates, check out the NAHL Page on Pointstreak and look for game summaries of the 5 Southwest Teams going on throughout the Showcase Event. This is not just to open the season but a chance for the players to play in front of NCAA & Professional Scouts as they get looked at throughout the season.

For the latest News, check out the NAHL Showcase Website

To check out the latest Scores & Stats Updates, click Here

Check out the venue for the Showcase, the Schwan's Super Rink

My Twitter Page

Southwest Team Websites

Amarillo Bulls

Corpus Christi Icerays

New Mexico Mustangs

Texas Tornado

Wichita Falls Wildcats



Southwest Teams Schedule for this Week. To see the full schedules, click on the Dates.

9/15

Corpus Christi Icerays VS. Traverse City North Stars 10:15 AM

Michigan Warriors VS. Amarillo Bulls 10:30 AM

Wichita Falls Wildcats VS. Chicago Hitmen 1:45 PM

New Mexico Mustangs VS. Janesville Jets 4:45 PM

Texas Tornado VS. Motor City Metal Jackets 8:15 PM


9/16

Chicago Hitmen VS. Corpus Christi Icerays 10:30 AM

Wenatchee Wild VS. Wichita Falls Wildcats 2:30 PM

Kenai River Brown Bears VS. Texas Tornado 5:00 PM

New Mexico Mustangs VS. Fairbanks Ice Dogs 8:00 PM

Amarillo Bulls VS. Fresno Monsters 8:15 PM


9/17

Owatonna Express VS. Corpus Christi Icerays 10:30 AM

Wichita Falls Wildcats VS. Bismarck Bobcats 1:15 PM

Texas Tornado VS. Coluee Region Chill 1:45 PM

Springfield Jr. Blues VS. New Mexico Mustangs 5:00 PM

Amarillo Bulls VS. Pt. Huron Fighting Falcons 8:00 PM


9/18

Aberdeen Wings VS. Wichita Falls Wildcats 9:00 AM

Austin Bruins VS. Texas Tornado 9:15 AM

St. Louis Bandits VS. Amarillo Bulls 9:45 PM

Alexandria Blizzard VS. New Mexico Mustangs 12:15 PM

Corpus Christi Icerays VS. Dawson Creek Rage 3:45 PM

Watch the NAHL Blaine Showcase on Fast Hockey

After the last several years on B2TV, the NAHL are changing their Internet broadcast service to Fast Hockey and they will be making their debut tomorrow when the NAHL Blaine Showcase in Minnesota gets underway. You can watch every game live and can get them on Demand as well if you can't watch them live.

It all starts tomorrow morning as the Alaska Avalanche will open the showcase against the Aberdeen Wings, as for Southwest Teams kicking off their Showcase action, that will be the Corpus Christi Icerays facing off against the defending North Division Champion Traverse City North Stars.

Other games tomorrow include the Amarillo Bulls against the Michigan Warriors, Wichita Falls who goes up against Chicago who had a rough opening weekend last weekend losing all 3 games against Traverse City & a pair against the Janesville Jets. Later in the day it will be the New Mexico Mustangs and the Janesville Jets, then the Texas Tornado will wrap up the first day with a game against the emerging Motor City Metal Jackets.

To get the info on what you need to get on board and watch the North American Hockey League all season long, here's a Press Release on what you need to know to be on board this season.

In addition to the North American Hockey League, you can use your credits that you gain to help follow other leagues and events that Fast Hockey Broadcasts during the season which includes several international events including the World Jr. A Challenge, 4 & 5 Nations Cups amongst others.

In addition to the NAHL Blaine Showcase, Fast Hockey will also show the North American Prospects Hockey League Futures Showcase which will be from September 16-19. With some of these teams affiliated with the NAHL Teams, some are looking to maybe get a call up with a NAHL Team like Mico Solarizo had for a few games last year with the Texas Tornado and is expected to be on the team full time this season.

NAHL on Fast Hockey

North American Hockey League Blaine Showcase

To Log in, Click Here

It was also announced that Mark Messier will be at the Showcase Event to help introduce his new helmet that he helped produce along with league Commissioner Mark Frankfeld and the project lead by Mary-Kay Messier. He will also do a ceremonial faceoff tomorrow at 10:30 AM at the kickoff of the Michigan Warriors VS. Amarillo Bulls Game.

The new helmet called the "M11" will be joining over 250 associations which brings head protection to the next level to prevent and lower the impact of concussions and head injuries to players all over the world. He will also be available to the Media for questions at several times throughout the day to ask questions and get reaction about the new helmets starting at just after 11:00 AM.

To Learn More about the new helmets, click on the following links.

Mark Messier at NAHL Blaine Showcase

The Messier Project


Here's the Southwest Schedule at the NAHL Blaine Showcase. To see the Full Schedule, click on the date.

9/15

Corpus Christi Icerays VS. Traverse City North Stars 10:15 AM

Michigan Warriors VS. Amarillo Bulls 10:30 AM

Wichita Falls Wildcats VS. Chicago Hitmen 1:45 PM

New Mexico Mustangs VS. Janesville Jets 4:45 PM

Texas Tornado VS. Motor City Metal Jackets 8:15 PM


9/16

Chicago Hitmen VS. Corpus Christi Icerays 10:30 AM

Wenatchee Wild VS. Wichita Falls Wildcats 2:30 PM

Kenai River Brown Bears VS. Texas Tornado 5:00 PM

New Mexico Mustangs VS. Fairbanks Ice Dogs 8:00 PM

Amarillo Bulls VS. Fresno Monsters 8:15 PM


9/17

Owatonna Express VS. Corpus Christi Icerays 10:30 AM

Wichita Falls Wildcats VS. Bismarck Bobcats 1:15 PM

Texas Tornado VS. Coluee Region Chill 1:45 PM

Springfield Jr. Blues VS. New Mexico Mustangs 5:00 PM

Amarillo Bulls VS. Pt. Huron Fighting Falcons 8:00 PM


9/18

Aberdeen Wings VS. Wichita Falls Wildcats 9:00 AM

Austin Bruins (MN) VS. Texas Tornado 9:15 AM

St. Louis Bandits VS. Amarillo Bulls 9:45 AM

Alexandria Blizzard VS. New Mexico Mustangs 12:15 PM

Corpus Christi Icerays VS. Dawson Creek Rage 3:45 PM