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)

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)

Central Hockey League: Conference Finals Schedule & Preview

With Game 7 of the Allen Americans and Laredo Bucks wrapping up last night. It's finally time for the CHL Conference Finals to get underway as the Rapid City Rush & Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs have been on long layoffs as the teams finished off sweeps back on April 1 and 2.

As both teams are fresh and have had a chance to take a look at their foes as the 1st round sweeps could be a factor when the Presidents Cup Championship starts up that could give the Northern Conference Champions at least an advantage in being fresh and not being as banged up.

The Southern Conference has the best offense against the best record as the Jackalopes finished the Regular Season in the last several years as Odessa had 101 points. But had a slow start against the Texas Brahmas where they lost the first 2, only to comeback to win 4 straight to win the series in 6.

Allen will have to battle lack of rest of prep time for the Americans as they will only get one travel day to get ready for the Jackalopes as the Americans will be playing their 3rd game in 4 days in these playoffs.


Northern Conference Final

#1 Rapid City Rush VS. #3 Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs

Rapid City Road to the Ray Morin Presidents Cup

Regular Season Record: 43-14-7 93 PTS, 253 GF 197 GA

Northern Semifinals VS. Missouri: Game 1 5-1 W, Game 2 2-1 W, Game 3 4-1 W, 7-6 OTW

Rapid City Scoring Leaders
Les Reaney 4 GP 9 PTS (3G 6A, +5)
Rich Hansen 4 GP 7 PTS (2G 5A, +4)
Jon Pelle 4 GP 6 PTS (3G 3A, +3)


Rapid City Goaltending
Danny Battochio 4 GP 4-0 2.23 GAA .936 SV%


Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs Road to the Presidents Cup

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

Northern Semifinals VS. Colorado: Game 1 4-3 OTW, Game 2 4-3 W, Game 3 3-1 W, Game 4 4-2 W

Bossier-Shreveport Scoring Leaders
Shawn Limpright 4 GP 5 PTS (3G 2A, +2)
David Pszenyczny 4 GP 4 PTS (3G 1A, +4)
Travis Clayton 4 GP 4 PTS (3G 1A, +2)


Bossier-Shreveport Goaltending
Ken Carroll 3 GP 3-0 2.17 GAA .935 SV%
John Decarlo 2 GP 1-0 2.42 GAA .927 SV%


This Series will be using the 2-3-2 Format

All Rapid City Rush Home Games are @ Rushmore Plaza Civic Center

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


Game 1, 4/10: @ Rapid City 8:05 PM

Game 2, 4/11: @ Rapid City 6:05 PM

Game 3, 4/14: @ Bossier-Shreveport 7:05 PM

Game 4, 4/16: @ Bossier-Shreveport 7:05 PM

Game 5, 4/17: @ Bossier-Shreveport 7:05 PM*

Game 6, 4/20: @ Rapid City 7:35 PM*

Game 7, 4/21: @ Rapid City 7:35 PM*

*If Necessary


Southern Conference Final

#1 Odessa Jackalopes VS. #2 Allen Americans

Odessa Jackalopes Road to the Presidents Cup

Regular Season Record: 48-11-5 101 PTS, 269 GF 187 GA

Southern Semifinals VS. Texas: Game 1 2-5 L, Game 2 2-3 OTL, Game 3 6-3 W, Game 4 5-1 W, Game 5 2-1 W, Game 6 5-4 OTW


Odessa Scoring Leaders
Sebastien Thinel 6 GP 12 PTS (5G 7A, +7)
Jeff Pierce 6 GP 10 PTS (4G 6A, +6)
Collin Circelli 6 GP 7 PTS (2G 5A, +5)

Odessa Goaltending
Juha Toivonen 4 GP 3-0 2.46 GAA .921 SV%
Joel Martin 3 GP 1-2 2.97 GAA .882 SV%


Allen Americans Road to the Presidents Cup

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

Southern Semifinals VS. Laredo: Game 1 3-4 L, Game 2 3-2 W, Game 3 4-1 W, Game 4 3-4 L, Game 5 1-5 L, Game 6 3-2 W, Game 7 4-1 W


Allen Scoring Leaders
Nino Musitelli 7 GP 9 PTS (4G 5A, +1)
Bruce Graham 7 GP 9 PTS (3G 6A, +3)
Justin Bowers 7 GP 9 PTS (3G 6A, -2)

Allen Goaltending
Chris Whitley 7 GP 4-3 2.53 GAA .909 SV%
David Mckee 1 GP 0-0 3.25 GAA .857 SV%


This Series will be a 2-3-2 format for this series.

All Odessa Jackalopes Home Games are @ Ector County Coliseum

All Allen Americans Home Games are @ Allen Event Center

Game 1, 4/9: @ Odessa 7:05 PM

Game 2, 4/10: @ Odessa 7:05 PM

Game 3, 4/14: @ Allen 7:30 PM

Game 4, 4/16: @ Allen 7:30 PM

Game 5, 4/17: @ Allen 7:30 PM*

Game 6, 4/19: @ Odessa 7:05 PM*

Game 7, 4/21: @ Odessa 7:05 PM*

*If Necessary

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)

Texas Brahmas Finish 2 Game Sweep of Corpus Christi

Press Release from the Texas Brahmas Website: www.brahmas.com

The Brahmas sealed up the opening round series Wednesday evening in a sweep over the Corpus Christi Icerays in a 2-0 victory.

The Brahmas held their advantage, "The NYTEX Factor" in Game Two onto a remarkable 14-2 home record in the postseason in their barn. To Improve their record needed to play their top game against a tough Corpus Christi Team, and a R.G. Flath hooking call kick started the Brahmas offense when Matt Pierce shelved his second postseason goal with :22 remaining on the powerplay. Tyler Skworchinski gave the Brahmas a 2 goal edge when he took a feed from Jordan Cameron and Kevin Seibel at the 13:19 mark of the opening period.

It was a scoreless 2nd period thanks to a remarkable 4 minute powerplay killing effort by the purple and black who outshot the Rays on their own man advantage. In the end, it was about the man in the mask for the Brahmas as Brett Jeager was in playoff mode stopping all 28 shots faced earning his third postseason shutout of his career and Texas' bid to face Odessa in the Conference Semifinals.

The Southern Conference Semifinals begins in Odessa on Friday & Saturday night in the 2-2-1-1-1 series format. The Brahmas host game 3 on Wednesday, March 31 at 7:05 PM @ NYTEX Sports Center. For tickets please contact the Brahmas Box Office at 817-336-4423.

Here's a look at the Southern Conference Semifinals Schedule between the Texas Brahmas and the Odessa Jackalopes.

Game 1, 3/26: @ Odessa 7:05 PM

Game 2, 3/27: @ Odessa 7:05 PM

Game 3, 3/31: @ Texas 7:05 PM

Game 4, 4/2: @ Texas 7:05 PM

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

Game 6, 4/5: @ Texas 7:05 PM*

Game 7, 4/7: @ Odessa 7:05 PM*

*If Necessary


Game Boxscore

@NYTEX Sports Center

Corpus Christi Icerays 0 Texas Brahmas 2 (0-2, 0-0, 0-0)

0-1 TEX: Matt Pierce (PP) (Jacobsen, Hiebert) 9:01 1st

0-2 TEX: Tyler Skworchinski (Cameron, Seibel) 13:19 1st

Game Stats

SOG: CRC 28 TEX 30

PP: CRC 0/3 TEX 1/4

PIM: CRC 12 Minutes on 6 Pen. TEX 10 Minutes on 5 PEN.

Goalies: CRC Kevin Beech 28 SVS on 30 Shots TEX Brett Jeager 28 SVS on 28 Shots

Att: 2231

3 Stars:
3rd Star: Matt Pierce (TEX)

2nd Star: Tyler Skworchinski (TEX)

1st Star: Brett Jeager (TEX)


Missouri Mavericks VS. Mississippi Riverkings

A mostly defensive showdown dominated play in Mississippi last night. Kevin Truelson and Bobby Chaumont scored goals about 6 minutes into the 1st & 2nd periods to overcome the Missouri Mavericks and force a 3rd Game tonight. Winner of Game 3 will play Rapid City in the Northern Conference Semifinals.

Game Boxscore

@Desoto Civic Center

Missouri Mavericks 1 Mississippi Riverkings 2 (0-1, 1-1, 0-0)

0-1 MIS: Kevin Truelson (PP) (Landmesser, Desment) 6:57 1st

0-2 MIS: Bobby Chaumont (Godoy) 6:47 2nd

1-2 MIZ: Jeff Macdermid (Christian) 7:23 2nd

Game Stats

SOG: MIZ 23 MIS 32

PP: MIZ 0/1 MIS 1/4

PIM: MIZ 8 Minutes on 4 Penalties MIS 2 Minutes on 1 Penalty

Goalies: MIZ Charlie Effinger 30 SVS on 32 Shots MIS Kyle Mcnulty 22 SVS on 23 Shots

ATT: 1963

3rd Star: Jeff Macdermid (MIZ)

2nd Star: Kevin Truelson (MIS)

1st Star: Bobby Chaumont (MIS)