Huge Nights by Cook & Reaney put Rush on the Brink of the Presidents Cup

Huge night by Brendan Cook & Les Reaney with 4 points each put the Rush within 1 win of the team's first ever CHL Presidents Cup Title as they lead the Rush on an offensive explosion as the Rush had balanced scoring with 2 goals in each of the 1st & 3rd periods. Along with a 3 goal 2nd period to lead the Rush to a 7-2 win in Game 5 down in the D/FW Area. This puts the Rush in great position going back to South Dakota for the final time this season.

Despite going down 2-0 in the first 7 minutes, the Americans responded well to make it 2-1 with a goal by Justin Bowers and then Colton Yellow Horn tied the game late in the first. But that was as close the Americans got in this one as the Rush scored his first 2 of the playoffs that eventually lead to a hat trick. While Les Reaney scored his 2nd of the night to make it 5-2 in the 2nd as Chris Whitley and the Americans had no answers on this night as they suffered the biggest loss of this year's post-season.

Whitley was pulled after 2 periods. However, backup goalie David Mckee couldn't do much better as he gave up 3rd period goals to Brendan Cook & Derek Leblanc to make it a 7-2 final score.

Rapid City goes back to South Dakota in great shape as a single win will give them the Championship. While Allen will need to win on Tuesday & Friday for Games 6 & 7 to bring the Championship to the Dallas Area.

The Americans have shown they can play, during the 2 regular season games, the Americans were 1-1 as both games were one goal games. Then in Games 1 & 2 of the playoffs, Allen won Game 1 4-1 while Rapid City won Game 2 5-4 in OT. So they have shown to play well in South Dakota early on in the Finals Series.

From the Allen Americans Website: www.allenamericans.com

From Allen, Texas: The Allen Americans lost tonight to Rapid City in front of a sell-out crowd of 6,003 at the Allen Event Center on Saturday Night. The Rush have a 3-2 series lead in the Ray Miron Presidents Cup Finals. The Club will travel to Rapid City for Game 6 on Tuesday and Game 7 on Friday if needed.

Rapid City scored the game's first two goals before the Americans fired back with two of their own. Rush forward Derek Campbell opened the scoring at 3:10. Five Minutes later, Les Reaney hit a puck sitting on the goal line to make it 2-0.

At 9:10 of the first period, Justin Bowers snapped a wrist shot from the high slot past Rapid City Backstop Danny Battochio to cut the visitor's lead in half. Forward Colton Yellow Horn was next light the lamp. He totally came with 3:57 remaining in the opening frame on the power play. The score was tied at 2-2 at 20 minutes.

Rapid City put three more goals on in the 2nd period. Brendan Cook scored the first of two at 4:03 and 10:33. His second was on the power play. Then, Les Reaney picked up a tally with 3:02 left in the frame. Even though Allen hounded the Rush Cage, the club could not find the back of the net. Rapid City had a 5-2 advantage heading into the 3rd period.

Allen Replaced Chris Whitley in net with Goalie David Mckee to start the 3rd. Cook secured a hat trick just 47 seconds into the final frame after netting his 3rd goal. Derek Leblanc scored Rapid City's last goal of the night just 3 minutes later to make the final score 7-2.

Whitley made 10 saves on 15 shots, while Mckee stopped 5 of 7. Battochio recorded 24 saves this evening to get the win.

Tonight's contest marked the last home game of the team's first season in Allen. Game six will take place on Tuesday, May 4, in Rapid City at 7:35 PM. If Necessary, Game 7 will be Friday, May 7, at 8:05 PM. Boston Pizza in Mckinney will be hosting a Team Watching Party for fans on Tuesday Night.


Rapid City Leads Series 3-2

Game Boxscore

Rapid City Rush 7 Allen Americans 2 (2-2, 3-0, 2-0)

1-0 RPC: Derek Campbell (Reaney, Bostock) 3:10 1st

2-0 RPC: Les Reaney (Cook, Jarvis) 7:32 1st

2-1 ALN: Justin Bowers (Fairbarn, Whelan) 9:10 1st

2-2 ALN: Colton Yellow Horn (PP) (Benn, Bowers) 16:03

3-2 RPC: Brendan Cook (Campbell, Grimson) 4:03 2nd

4-2 RPC: Brendan Cook (PP) (Wray) 10:33 2nd

5-2 RPC: Les Reaney (Bostock) 16:58 2nd

6-2 RPC: Brendan Cook (Reaney, Wray) 0:47 3rd

7-2 RPC: Derek Leblanc (Pelle, Hansen) 4:23 3rd


Game Stats

SOG: RPC 22 ALN 26

PP: RPC 1/7 ALN 1/6

PIM: RPC 12 Minutes on 6 Penalties ALN 16 Minutes on 8 Penalties

Goalies: RPC Danny Battochio 24 SVS on 26 Shots ALN Chris Whitley 10 SVS on 15 Shots David Mckee 5 SVS on 7 Shots

ATT: 6003

3rd Star: Danny Battochio (RPC)

2nd Star: Les Reaney (RPC)

1st Star: Brendan Cook (RPC)

CHL Championship Game 4, Rapid City uses 3 goal 2nd period to tie series

Early goals by Allen Americans All-Stars Justin Bowers & Bruce Graham in the first 3 minutes wasn't enough as the Rush came-back to score 3 goals in the 2nd period which included goals from Derek Leblanc and Brandon Hodge who have been there time-and-time again for the Rush all post-season long to get the Rush a 3-2 lead late in the 2nd period.

Then in the 3rd, it was Jon Pelle who ended a goal scoring drought that goes back to the middle of the Conference Semifinal Series against the Missouri Mavericks.

Both goalies had very strong nights as Whitley had 35 saves despite losing in an ability to at-least keep the Americans of having a shot of taking a 3-1 series lead and having a chance of winning the championship at home.

As for Rapid City's Danny Battochio he had 27 saves to get the series tied to make Game 5 a huge tipping point in the series as the Best-of-7 final would go back to Rapid City for the final time this season for Game 6 which is on Tuesday Night. If a Game 7 & Championship Decider is needed, it would be on Friday Night to ultimately decide who will win the 2010 CHL Presidents Cup Championship.

Rapid City is hoping to use this Game 4 success to maybe head back up to South Dakota up 3-2 on Saturday Night. While Allen wants to end the home season on a high as a win would put them on the brink of a championship in their teams first season in league history.

Despite the 4-2 score, a huge scrum broke out with 1:12 left in the 3rd period where several fights and even abuse of officials was seen to end what was a very exciting Game 4 of the League Championship Series.

From the Allen Americans Website: www.allenamericans.com

From Allen, Texas: The Americans dropped Game 4 tonight 4-2 to the Rapid City Rush at the Allen Event Center. The Rush tied the best-of-7 Ray Miron Presidents Cup Finals 2-2.

The Americans scored early, taking advantage of two power play opportunities. Justin Bowers struck first off a pass from Bruce Graham at 2:43 of the 1st period. Graham lit the lamp with a wrist shot from the high slot 29 seconds later that unleashed a defining roar from the crowd. Allen protected the 2-0 lead throughout the rest of the 1st period.

Rapid City scored two straight goals to tie the game by 12:12 of the 2nd period. The first Rush goal came from Derek Leblanc, while the 2nd was a power play goal right after a 5-on-3 man advantage expired. This one belonged to Brendan Lodge. Four minutes later, the Rush's leading scorer, Les Reaney, gave Rapid City its first lead in Allen. The period ended with a 3-2 Rush Advantage.

The Americans attempted a comeback in the third period, but the players had to kill off a two minute 5-on-3 advantage for Rapid City at 10:20. The Rush scored 20 seconds into the power play when Jon Pelle hacked the puck in past Whitley to bring the score to 4-2. The game contuined to the 18:48 mark when a scrum broke out. The Ref accessed 12 penalties from the stoppage. The game that ended with the 4-2 final score for the Rush to tie the series at 2-2.

Americans rookie Netminder Chris Whitley broke three records tonight. He now has played the most minutes by a goalie in the post-season with 1066, has the most appearances in a single post-season with 18 and has the most saves with 536.

Whitley ended the night with 35 saves tonight, while Rush backstop Danny Battochio stopped 27 shots. Both teams ended the night with two power play goals.

The Championship Series continues in Allen Tomorrow night with Game 5. The 7:30 PM Contest will be the last of the Americans inaugural season. To show the club's appreciation to all its fans, the Americans and the Allen Event Center are offering $2 Hot Dogs and $2 Beers. The first 5,000 fans will receive Red Americans T-Shirts in an effort to Red-Out the Rink.

Additionally, the first 2000 fans will receive free thunder sticks, and they will be a fan-fest beginning at 5:30 PM. Festivities include bounce houses, interactive gaming areas, balloon artists, a rock climbing wall and so much more.

Tickets are available by calling 972-912-1000, going to www.allenamericans.com or stopping by the Allen Event Center Box Office. The Box Offices are open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Monday through Saturday. Fans interested in multiple game packages are encouraged to speak with Allen Americans representative savings off walk-up prices at 972-912-1000.


Series Tied 2-2

Game Boxscore

Rapid City Rush 4 Allen Americans 2 (0-2, 3-0, 1-0)

0-1 ALN: Justin Bowers (PP) (Graham, Yellow Horn) 2:43 1st

0-2 ALN: Bruce Graham (PP) (Benn, Musitelli) 3:12 1st

1-2 RPC: Derek Leblanc (Flamminio, Wray) 9:21 2nd

2-2 RPC: Brendon Hodge (PP) (Grimson, Wray) 13:12 2nd

3-2 RPC: Les Reaney (Cook, Fritshaw) 17:10 2nd

4-2 RPC: Jon Pelle (PP) (Hodge, Grimson) 10:39 3rd


Game Stats

SOG: RPC 39 ALN 29

PP: RPC 2/8 ALN 2/6

PIM: RPC 33 Minutes on 11 Penalties ALN 70 Minutes on 16 Penalties

Goalies: RPC Danny Battochio 27 SVS on 29 Shots ALN Chris Whitley 35 SVS on 39 Shots

ATT: 5693

3rd Star: Chris Whitley (ALN)

2nd Star: Brendon Hodge (RPC)

1st Star: Danny Battochio (RPC)

Yellow Horn & Bowers have huge nights, Gives the Americans a 2-1 Series Lead

Huge nights with Colton Yellow Horn's Hat Trick plus Justin Bower's 2 goals in the first period stunned the Rapid City Rush who was looking to continue their momentum from the Game 2 OT Win at the Allen Event Center.

In addition to Yellow Horn & Bowers, Americans goalie had to take on a ton of Rush shots as the Rush out-shot the Americans 37-25 in the game, including 14-7 in the 2nd period. For that, they have rookie goalie Chris Whitley to think as he stopped 35 of 37 shots in the game to allow Yellow Horn's 2nd period goals to go up 4-1 and eventually be a big difference in game. Other great nights came from Jarrett Lukin & Tyler Wooddisse who each had two assists in the game.

Rapid City Goals by Brendan Cook & Scott Wray made the score 4-2 late in the 3rd period. But Whitley was able to keep the Rush from coming any closer in this game. Rapid City Goalie Danny Battochio also had to be pulled after the Americans made it 4-0 in the 2nd period. Despite Beaudry stopping all 12 shots and giving the Rush a chance to comeback late, it was to little to late as Yellow Horn scored an empty netter to give him his first pro hat trick of his career.

From the Allen Americans Website: www.allenamericans.com

From Allen, Texas: Colton Yellow Horn scored his first professional hat trick tonight en route to an Allen Americans 5-2 win at the Allen Event Center. The win gives the Americans a 2-1 series lead over Rapid City in the Ray Miron Presidents Cup Final.

The Americans started off their first final's home game by bringing in North Texas hockey icon Norm Green to do the ceremonial puck drop. The former Dallas Stars Owner arrived ready for playoff hockey, wearing his tie that he dons for postseason action.

After the Green Puck Drop, the Americans went on to open the game with a power play at 2:10. Justin Bowers shoved the puck past Rush Netminder Danny Battochio from the top of the crease for his ninth playoff goal. With 6:22 remaining in the first period, Allen increased its lead to two. Bowers scored his 2nd of the night off of a pass from Veteran Erik Adams. After 20 minutes, Allen led 2-0.

Allen's offense continued to score in the middle frame, even when the club was shorthanded. Colton Yellow Horn deked around the Rapid City Defender with an incredible move and lit the lamp 1:25 into the 2nd period on the penalty kill. Yellow Horn grabbed another goal on a three-on-two rush later in the 2nd. Nino Musitelli left a drop pass from Captain Jarrett Lukin, who passed the puck a fallen defender to an open Yellow Horn. The forward poked the puck in his 8th of the playoffs at 10:10.

The Rush replaced Battochio in net with Miguel Beaudry after the fourth Allen Goal of the game similar to Game one. Rapid City got on the scoreboard at 12:11 when Brendan Cook's shot from the high slot hit the back of the net. The goal brought the score to 4-1.

The next goal of the game came at 12:12 of the final period, when Scott Wray grabbed a tally on a slap shop to bring the Rush within two. Rapid City put an extra attacker on the ice with two minutes to go, but Yellow Horn ruined any hopes of the visitors had a comeback when he scored an empty netter to earn a hat trick. The final score 5-2.

Allen's record is now 3-0 in Game 3's in this year's playoffs.

The Championship Series continues in Allen for Game Four and Five on April 30 and May 1, respectively. To show the club's appreciation to all its fans, the Americans and the Allen Event Center are offering $2 beers and $2 hot dogs at the last home games of the team's inaugural season. Additionally, the first 2,000 fans at each game will receive free thunder sticks, and there will be a fan fest before every game at 5:30 PM. Festivities includes bounce houses, interactive gamezones, balloon artists, a rock climbing wall and so much more. Both games start at 7:30 PM.

Tickets are available by 972-912-1000, going to gettix.net or by stooping by the Allen Even Center Box Office. The Box Office is open from 10 AM to 6 PM Mondays through Saturdays. Fans interested in tickets to multiple playoff games are encouraged to speak with an Allen Americans representative regarding savings at walk up prices at 972-912-1000.

Allen Americans Leads Series 2-1


Game Boxscore

Rapid City Rush 2 Allen Americans 5 (0-2, 1-2, 1-1)

0-1 ALN: Justin Bowers (PP) (Graham, Yellow Horn) 2:10 1st

0-2 ALN: Justin Bowers (Adams, Fairbarn) 13:38

0-3 ALN: Colton Yellow Horn (SH) (Wooddisse, Lukin) 1:33 2nd

0-4 ALN: Colton Yellow Horn (Lukin, Musitelli) 10:10 2nd

1-4 RPC: Brendan Cook (Bostock) 12:11 2nd

2-4 RPC: Scott Wray (Reaney, Leblanc) 12:12 3rd

2-5 ALN: Colton Yellow Horn (EN) (Wooddisse) 19:08 3rd


Game Stats

PP: RPC 0/6 ALN 1/4

SOG: RPC 37 ALN 25

PIM: RPC 18 Minutes on 9 Penalties ALN 20 Minutes on 10 Penalties

Goalies: RPC Danny Battochio 8 SVS on 12 Shots Migueal Beaudry 12 SVS on 12 Shots ALN Chris Whitley 35 SVS on 37 Shots

ATT: 3532

3rd Star: Chris Whitley (ALN)

2nd Star: Justin Bowers (ALN)

1st Star: Colton Yellow Horn (ALN)

CHL Shots from the Point on the Presidents Cup Final

3 times a week during the playoffs. The Central Hockey League does a segment called "Shots from the Point" to provide news and notes, quick-hits and briefs on the Playoffs. Here's today's edition which will get you ready for the 3 Games in Allen which begin tonight as the battle for the Ray Miron Presidents Cup Championship continues.

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

The Rapid City Rush and Allen Americans will met in Game 3 of the Ray Miron Presidents' Cup Championship Series with the series tied at 1-1. Tonight mark's the first of three straight games at the Allen Event Center where the Americans are 5-2 during the post-season.

Game's 4 & 5 are scheduled for Friday & Saturday Night at the Allen Event Center. Game 3 has not been much of an indicator in the past as the team that has won Game 3 has won either the CHL or the WPHL Championship 13 of 21 times in league history. The Game 3 winner has won the series in each of the past two seasons and in three of the last 4.


Presidents Cup Championship Update:

Game 1, 4/23: Allen Americans 4 Rapid City Rush 1
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1269586

Game 1 Story: http://centralhockeyleague.com/pressroom/index.html?article_id=4603


Game 2, 4/24: Allen Americans 4 Rapid City Rush 5 (OT)
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1269587

Game 2 Story: http://centralhockeyleague.com/pressroom/index.html?article_id=4605


Game 3, 4/28: @ Allen 7:30 PM

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

Game 5, 5/1: @ Allen 7:30 PM

Game 6, 5/4: @ Rapid City 6:35 PM MDT*

Game 7, 5/7: @ Rapid City 7:05 PM MDT*

*If Necessary

Game 1: Allen Americans 4 Rapid City Rush 1

Allen goaltender Chris Whitley made 48 saves and the Americans scored four times in the 2nd period to earn the Game 1 win. Nino Musitelli led the way offensively scored a pair of goals in the win.

Game 2: Allen Americans 4 Rapid City Rush 5 (OT)

Rapid City Defensemen Dave Grimson scored the game tying goal with less then a minute remaining and Blane Jarvis scored his first professional OT Game Winner as the Rush evened the Series. Allen Chris Whitley's made 52 saves in the losing effort. Brendon Hodge and Les Reaney each had three helpers for the Rush.


CHL TV

Catch all of the Ray Miron Presidents Cup Playoffs live on CHL-TV. Individual Live Games and archives are available as well as the packages that allow you purchase a series at a time. Throughout the post-season, the CHL has partnered with Bieler Bros. Records (www.bilerbros.com) giving each Live Game or archive purchase a free download from Bieler Bros. Records Artists and for every playoff package, fans receive a free Bieler Bros. Record CD. Visit http://chltv.insinc.com for more info.


Close Calls

The Americans will play each of the next three games on home ice where they are 5-2 during the post-season. Although they have an impressive home record, the Americans have only outscored the opposition 27-21 in their seven playoff contests. The line of Justin Bowers, Bruce Graham, Nino Musitelli have combined for 39 points (14G 25A) with a +22 in the seven home games so far.


Comfy in Allen

The Rapid City Rush have lost home-ice advantage but they have good memories in their only previous visit to the Allen Event Center. On Friday, January 15, the Rush dismantled the Americans 6-1 handing them one of the biggest losses of the season on home ice during the regular season. Les Reaney scored a pair of goals and Scott Wray and had a goal and two assists. Danny Battochio stopped 33 of 34 shots earning the win.


Series Quick Hits

• Nino Musitelli leads all skaters with 12 goals in the post-season (CHL Playoff Record is 17). He is currently on a four game goal scoring streak with five goals over that time.
• Rapid City's OT Win on Saturday's moves their OT Record in the Post-Season to 4-0. Conversely, the Americans are 0-3 in playoff games this post-season.
• Allen's goaltender Chris Whitley has made 100 saves on 106 shots in the two games combined so far versus Rapid City. The rookie stopped 48 shots in Game 1 and 52 in Game 2. Whitley is 9-7 in the playoffs so far and with his next appearance, he will tie the CHL record for most appearances by a goaltender in the playoffs (Chad Erickson of San Angelo and Steven Plouffe of Ft. Worth). Whitley is within reach as well of breaking Erickson's records for most minutes played and saves in a playoff season.
• The imporantance of drawing first blood is magnified with the Rush and the Americans as the team strikes first typically wins the game. So far in the playoffs, the Rush and the Americans are a combined 14-3 when scoring first and through the first two games of the Finals, the team that scored first won the game.

Rapid City's Blane Jarvis's OT Winner Ties Championship at 1-1

After the Americans used a huge 2nd period to win the opening game of the Final. Blane Jarvis might have had a hard luck night if it weren't for the OT Winner as he pretty much did everything but score throughout the night as he had 7 SOG on the Game, but had no luck until 4:17 into the OT when he finally got his 5th goal of thie year's playoffs to the tie the Championship Series.

Allen defiantly had a great night as Nino Musitelli had has 3rd goal of the Championship Series and 12th overall this year. In addition to his 10 assists which gives him 22 points for the playoffs (3rd Overall in Playoff Scoring). Colton Yellow Horn & Bruce Graham also scored in the 3rd period as the Americans were looking to get the series back to Texas as the Americans were looking to lead 2-0.

Now with the Series tied at 1-1, the Championship Series shifts to the northern part of the Dallas Area as Game 3 will be on Wednesday Night. Game 4 will be taking place on Friday then Game 5 on Saturday Night as all 3 games are going to be needed.

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

From Rapid City, South Dakota: Things are all even in the Ray Miron Presidents Cup Finals after the Rapid City Rush struck late in regulation tying the game and then went on to win 5-4 in Overtime tying the best-of-7 series at 1-1 against the Allen Americans.

The Rush struck first with Scott Wray scoring his sixth goal of the playoffs at the 13:45 mark of the first period.

The Teams would exchange goals in the 2nd period with Christian Gaudet scoring for the Americans and Derek Leblanc for the Rush. After 40 minutes, the game was fairly defensive with the score 2-1.

The fireworks went off in the 3rd period, Dave Grimson decided to make his impact on the game scoring his first of two third period goals. His second came with just 39 seconds remaining in regulation tying the game and sending it to Overtime.

In the extra session, the Rush took advantage of a rebound getting several chances with Blane Jarvis finally knocking home the game winner at the 4:17 mark of the extra period. The other Americans goal, scored in the 3rd period, was notched by Nino Musitelli, his league leading 12th of the playoffs.

The Rush outshot the Americans 57-39 as Chris Whitley made 52 saves but took the loss. Danny Battochio made 35 saves earning his ninth win of the playoffs.

The Series will now shift to the Allen Events Center as Game 3 will be scheduled for Wednesday Night as the winner will take a critcal 2-1 series lead.

Series Tied 1-1

Game Boxscore

Allen Americans 4 Rapid City Rush 5 (OT) (0-1, 1-1, 3-2, 0-1)

0-1 RPC: Scott Wray (Hodge, Cook) 13:45 1st

1-1 ALN: Christian Gaudet (Yellow Horn, Benn) 9:21 2nd

1-2 RPC: Derek Leblanc (PP) (Reaney, Hodge) 17:28 2nd

2-2 ALN: Colton Yellow Horn (Lukin) 2:26 3rd

3-2 ALN: Bruce Graham (Benn) 9:40 3rd

3-3 RPC: Dave Grimson (Reaney, Battochio) 10:25 3rd

4-3 ALN: Nino Musitelli (Bowers, Graham) 14:33 3rd

4-4 RPC: Dave Grimson (EA) (Hansen, Reaney) 19:21 3rd

4-5 RPC: Blaine Jarvis (Cook, Hodge) 4:17 OT


Game Stats

SOG: ALN 38 RPC 57

PP: ALN 0/4 RPC 1/3

PIM: ALN 10 Minutes on 5 Penalties RPC 12 Minutes on 6 Penalties

Goalies: ALN Chris Whitley 52 SVS on 57 Shots RPC Danny Battochio 34 SVS on 38 Shots

ATT: 5119

3rd Star: Colton Yellow Horn (ALN)

2nd Star: Dave Grimson (RPC)

1st Star: Blaine Jarvis (RPC)

Huge 2nd Period Gives the Americans a Game 1 Win

A 4 goal 2nd period led by Nino Musitelli with 2 goals plus Justin Bowers who had an assist and did everything else but score in the Game gave the Americans a huge Game 1 win just 2 days after beating the Odessa Jackalopes in the Conference Finals.

Just about everyone had a huge night where it came together in the 2nd period such Chris Whitley stopping 18 shots in the 2nd period to Jarret Lukin who had great set up plays in the game skated past the Rapid City Rush to take the opening and stole Home Ice Advantage at least temporary.

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

From Rapid City, South Dakota: After a Game 7 win in the Southern Finals and a long trip from Texas to South Dakota, the Allen Americans showed no fatigue as they scored four times in the 2nd period and goaltender Chris Whitley made a 2010 Playoffs Single Game High 48 saves en route to a 4-1 victory in Game 1 of the Central Hockey League Ray Miron Presidents Cup Championship at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Arena.

The Americans rookie goaltender was tested early as the Rush out-shot the Americans 13-7 in the opening period but Whitley was equal to the task by stopping everything Rapid City could throw his way.

In the 2nd period, Nathan O'Nabigon scored his first goal of the post-season at the 3:49 mark of the frame by giving the Americans the lead in the game, something that has yielded much success as they are now 7-2 when striking first in this playoffs.

They weren't done though as Nino Musitelli scored his 10th goal of the playoffs and first of two in this game. It would eventually be the Game Winner which gives Musitelli's back-to-back game winning goals in the playoffs. Tobias Whelan made the score 3-0 at the 16:07 mark before Musitelli's second goal of the game and period puts things away for Allen.

The Rush broke the shutout with just over 3 minutes remaining when David Grimson found the back of the net. Whitley finished with 48 saves including 18 in the 2nd period and 17 in the 3rd period. Allen finished Game 1 1/5 on the power play while Rapid City was 0/6. Game 2 is slated for Saturday Night in South Dakota.


Allen Americans Lead Series 1-0

Game Boxscore

Allen Americans 4 Rapid City Rush 1 (0-0, 4-0, 0-1)

1-0 ALN: Nathan Onabigon (Huculak, Salekin) 3:49 2nd

2-0 ALN: Nino Musitelli (Fairbarn) 8:57 2nd

3-0 ALN: Tobias Whelan (Lukin) 16:07 2nd

4-0 ALN: Nino Musitelli (PP) (Bowers, Benn) 19:06 2nd

4-1 RPC: Dave Grimson (Weselowski, Hodge) 16:50 3rd


Game Stats

PP: ALN 1/5 RPC 0/6

SOG: ALN 21 RPC 49

PIM: ALN 12 Minutes on 6 Penalties RPC 10 Minutes on 5 Penalties

Goalies: ALN Chris Whitley 48 SVS on 49 Shots RPC Danny Battochio 9 SVS on 12 Shots Miguel Beaudry 8 SVS on 9 Shots

ATT: 4419

3rd Star: Nathan Onabigon (ALN)

2nd Star: Chris Whitley (ALN)

1st Star: Nino Musitelli (ALN)

CHL Presidents Cup Championship Schedule & Preview

This year's Championship Series for the Central Hockey League Presidents Cup Championship is a battle of new comers to the league in recent years will fight it out for their first ever league championship. The Rapid City Rush came into the league last year after the team finished 6th and 17 points back for the final playoff spot.

This year with the experience and addition of players like Scott Wray, Rich Hansen and Derek Leblanc have taken the Rush from 6th place in the North Last year to the top seed and winning the Northern Conference Championship.

Goaltending has been very strong for the most part as Danny Battochio has a strong 2.51 GAA & an impressive .920 SV% during the playoffs. He's been raising his game since the regular season with a 2.60 GAA during the regular season during his first season with the Rush.

After taking care of business of the Missouri Mavericks in the Conference Semifinals, it took a tough 7 game series where the Rush defense and goaltending was put to the test with players like Travis Clayton and Shawn Limpright who were able to light up Battochio at times, but he was able to keep his composure and drive to help the Rush defeat the Mudbugs in 7 games.

For the Championship Series, both teams have among the best defense as the Americans had the 2nd best defense of the playoff teams as they gave up just 183 goals during the regular season.

Rapid City's defense will have to get even better to deal with the Americans top forwards like Bowers and Graham. This will put players like Fritshaw and Flamminio under the spot light to help the offense to pressure the top Americans forwards, while at the same time, having to bring up the number of hits.

Allen is in their expansion season as the Americans finished 2nd in the regular season where no one had a shot of stopping Odessa who had the best regular season in 6 years by winning 48 games and getting 101 points. However a strong defense has been taking a hit in the playoffs who have given up the 2nd most goals in the playoffs only ahead of Odessa with 44 goals.

However the offense has been strong with the Americans top line of Bowers, Musitelli and Graham who were in the All Star Game & had AHL Call ups at different times during the season. They have combined for 23 goals in the playoffs which has been a big reason for the success.

Two others that are playing very well in the playoffs are Jarret Lukin and Colton Yellow who each have 5 goals in the playoffs and are not afraid to deliver some hits and play along the boards.

A couple of defensemen that could be important set-up men include Jordie Benn and Ryan Fairbarn who are among the best passers and with their speed, can be dangerous if given the chance to be on the counter-attack with the Americans offense.

Goalie Chris Whitley hasn't had the best showing, but he's been big when needed as winning the opening and clinching games in Odessa to win the Southern Conference Title.

Like Most Championship Series, this one is expected to go long and some high scoring games as the are the top & 3rd Ranked Team Offenses in the playoffs with 41 & 48 goals scored in the post-season.

In the 3 Regular Season Games against Each other. Rapid City won the series by taking 2 of 3. Including the only game in Texas back in Jan. with a 6-1 Rush Win. The 2 Games in South Dakota back in Mid-March saw the Americans win 5-4 in OT, then the next night, the Rush won 5-4 in regulation on March 12 & 13.

The Championship Series format is a 2-3-2 with Rapid City hosting the opening 2 games. Then Allen would host Games 3-5 in the middle of the series. Then Games 6 and 7 would be back up north in South Dakota.

Here's a look at how both teams got the Ray Miron Presidents Cup Championship Series.

Regular Season Series:

1/15: Rapid City Rush 6 Allen Americans 1 (1-0, 3-1, 2-0)
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1067679

3/12: Allen Americans 5 Rapid City Rush 4 (OT) (2-2, 1-1, 1-1, 1-0)
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1067867

3/13: Allen Americans 4 Rapid City Rush 5 (1-1, 0-0, 3-4)
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1067874


CHL Ray Miron Presidents Cup Championship


#1N Rapid City Rush VS. #2S Allen Americans

Rapid City Rush Road to the Presidents Cup

Regular Season Record: 43-14-7 93 PTS, 253 GF 197 GA, Finished 1st in the North

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

CONF. Finals VS. Bossier-Shreveport: Game 1 5-4 OTW, Game 2 3-4 L, Game 3 3-2 OTW, Game 4 1-6 L, Game 5 4-1 W, Game 6 0-2 L, Game 7 7-3 W


Rapid City Rush Scoring Leaders
Les Reaney 11 GP 16 PTS (6G 10A, +12)
Scott Wray 11 GP 16 PTS (5G 11A, +11)
Jon Pelle 10 GP 13 PTS (3G 10A, +8)


Rapid City Goaltending
Danny Battochio 10 GP 8-2 2.51 GAA .920 SV%
Miguel Beaudry 2 GP 0-1 4.24 GAA .833 SV%

Rapid City Rush Full Stats: www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/teamplayerstats.html?teamid=240631&seasonid=5163


Allen Americans Road to the Presidents Cup Championship

Regular Season Record: 42-17-5 89 PTS, 210 GF 183 GA, Finished 2nd in the South

CONF. Semifinals VS. Laredo: Game 1 3-4 L, Game 2 1-2 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

CONF. Finals VS. Odessa: Game 1 4-3 W, Game 2 2-3 OTL, Game 3 5-2 W, Game 4 6-4 W, Game 5 3-6 L, Game 6 3-4 OTL, Game 7 4-2 W


Allen Americans Scoring Leaders
Justin Bowers 14 GP 23 PTS (8G 15A, +1)
Nino Musitelli 14 GP 19 PTS (9G 10A, +10)
Bruce Graham 14 GP 16 PTS (6G 10A, +8)


Allen Americans Goaltending
Chirs Whitley 14 GP 8-6 2.92 GAA .908 SV%


Allen Americans Full Playoff Stats: www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/teamplayerstats.html?teamid=240630&seasonid=5163


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

All Allen Americans Home Games are @ Allen Event Center

4/23, Game 1: @ Rapid City 8:05 PM

4/24, Game 2: @ Rapid City 8:05 PM

4/28, Game 3: @ Allen 7:30 PM

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

5/1, Game 5: @ Allen 7:30 PM*

5/4, Game 6: @ Rapid City 7:35 PM*

5/7, Game 7: @ Rapid City 8:05 PM*

*If Necessary

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)

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)

Central Hockey League: Conference Semifinals #1 VS. Play In Winners

As the Play In Rounds wrapped up last night with the Missouri Mavericks beating out the Mississippi Riverkings. In addidition to the Texas Brahmas beating sweeping the Corpus Christi Icerays. The Conference Semifinals get underway tonight as the Top Seeded Teams now know their fates for the Southern & Northern Conference Semifinals get underway this weekend.

Texas Brahmas VS. Odessa Jackalopes

For Texas VS. Odessa, it's more then a series', it's personal for Odessa as the Jackalopes came within 1 game of making the CHL Presidents Cup Championship last year after the Brahmas blasted the Jackalopes 8-1 last year in Game 7. This year, Odessa will play the role of the top seed and will be looking to put their playoff disappointment behind them and will be looking to win the CHL Presidents Cup after having one of the best records in the last 5 years.

The Brahmas may have a younger roster then last year, but some imporant pieces from last year's Championship teams are still in place. Jason Deitsch is back after finishing the playoffs last year as the league leading scorer with 26 points (11G 15A) in 16 games.

Also look for Matt Pierce who was brought in from the Mississippi Riverkings in Feb. and had a strong finish to the regular season by who had 17 points in 19 games in a Brahmas uniform including getting a hat trick against Laredo back on March 5. He also had a point in both games against Corpus Christi.

Goaltending is going to be a huge part of this series as both teams have strong duos. Odessa is going with Joel Martin and Juha Toivonen who won an impressieve 21 & 27 games each. While for Texas, Last year's Championship Winning Goalie in Brett Jeager and Joe Palmer who was a finalist for Rookie of the Year this year.

Rapid City Rush VS. Missouri Mavericks

After missing out on the playoff entirely last year, the Rapid City Rush had a huge transformition this season as the Rush were able to eack out Colorado in the final couple of weeks to win the Top Seed and will face the league's new boys in the Missouri Mavericks who finished 5th and knocked out Mississippi.

The Rush have a list a mile long of goal scorers as the Rush have 10 players in double digit goals this season while having the best defenseieve record by giving up the fewest goals of the Northern Conference Playoff Teams with 197.

Missouri is looking to it's momentum and some very experienced players like Simon Watson and Jeff Christian who has at least 25 goals the last 5 staright seasons.

As for the Series themselves, I think the Texas VS. Odessa is going to be a long one with it going at least 6 games. As for Mississouri VS. Rapid City, I would expect Rapid City's strong offense to take over and win this series in either 5 or possibly 6 games at the most.

When I show the Top Scores and Goaltending for the Teams. I will show the Regular Season for both teams, as Rapid City & Odessa haven't played a playoff game yet. While Texas & Missouri have played just 2 or 3 games in the post-season.


Northern Conference

#1 Rapid City Rush VS. #5 Missouri Mavericks

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

Rapid City Scoring Leaders
Les Reaney 64 GP 86 PTS (28G 58A)
Scott Wray 64 GP 78 PTS (31G 47A)
Brendan Cook 62 GP 67 PTS (29G 38A)

Rapid City Goaltending
Danny Battochio 42 GP 28-5-6 2.60 GAA .917 SV%
Miguel Beaudry 29 GP 15-9-3 3.28 GAA .896 SV%


Missouri Mavericks Regular Season Record: 31-27-6 68 PTS, 200 GF 220 GA

Play In Round against Mississippi

Game 1 4-2 W: Game 2 1-2 L: Game 3 3-1 W

Missouri Scoring Leaders
Jeff Christian 55 GP 78 PTS (29G 49A)
Nick Sirota 62 GP 45 PTS (19G 26A)
Jeff Macdermid 59 GP 44 PTS (23G 20A)

Missouri Goaltending
Charlie Effinger 13 GP 9-3-1 2.68 GAA .913 SV%
Gerry Festa 13 GP 5-4-3 2.88 GAA .906 SV%

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

All Missouri Mavericks Home Games are @ Indendpendence Events Center

Game 1, 3/27: @ Missouri 7:05 PM

Game 2, 3/28: @ Missouri 7:05 PM

Game 3, 3/31: @ Rapid City 7:35 PM

Game 4, 4/2: @ Rapid City 8:05 PM

Game 5, 4/3: @ Rapid City 8:05 PM*

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

Game 7, 47: @ Rapid City 7:35 PM*

*If Necessary


Southern Conference

#1 Odesssa Jackalopes VS. #4 Texas Brahmas

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

Odessa Scoring Leaders
Sebastien Thinel 64 GP 97 PTS (22G 75A)
Dominic Leveille 61 GP 76 PTS (23G 53A)
Collin Circelli 63 GP 72 PTS (37G 35A)

Odessa Goaltending
Joel Martin 36 GP 27-6-4 2.50 GAA .918 SV%
Juha Toivonen 30 GP 21-5-4 2.99 GAA .905 SV%


Texas Brahmas Regular Season Record: 32-25-7 71 PTS, 187 GF 190 GA

Play In Round against Corpus Christi

Game 1 5-4 W (OT), Game 2 2-0 W

Texas Scoring Leaders
Jordan Cameron 57 GP 57 PTS (21G 36A)
Jason Deitsch 51 GP 45 PTS (12G 33A)
Tyler Skworchinski 64 GP 38 PTS (21G 17A)

Texas Goaltending
Brett Jeager 38 GP 19-15-5 2.72 GAA .912 SV%
Joe Palmer 32 GP 13-10-7 2.75 GAA .914 SV%


All Odessa Jackalopes Home Games are @ Ector County Coliseum

All Texas Brahmas Home Games are @ NYTEX Sports Center

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