I would put a satisfactory/good year labeling on their season if they made it to the third round of the playoffs or better.
A second round exit I would call an OK season but slightly disappointing. Their are 4 teams in the East who I think are capable of making a Title run, and most likely you'll have to go through one of those 4 teams in the second round.
I think the tigers boast a very good group of forwards. 3 Lines who can score. I think Tyler Bunz has improved a lot over the first half of the season. I am very impressed with how much his lateral movement has improved.
Team defense has made loads of improvement since the beginning of the season with the forwards becoming more involved. Each Defenseman brings something unique to the table. However The Tigers have trouble breaking up other teams cycles down low and sometimes fail to get the puck out of their end on a consistent basis.
I wouldn't mind a slight upgrade here. However they don't really want to give away a good young prospect for a rental player when their is going to be a high turnover rate next season.
I don't really see the Tigers doing anything significant. I think they may be more willing to tinker with adding another forward to complete a solid 4 lines. I have heard that Cole Grbavic has decided to rejoin the team.
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Tigers vs Lethbridge
The Tigers lost tonight 3-2 in OT. I wasn't able to watch the game.
Fight Video From last Night. Thomas Carr lays a beating on Cam Braes.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Tigers Defeat Hitmen 6-4
Very entertaining game tonight between these two teams.
The Hitmen started out of the gate real strong getting 2 powerplays back to back. The fans were vocal in disagreeing with the calls. The tigers would kill off those 2 powerplays however Calgary would get a couple outstanding efforts and build a quick 2-0 lead.
1. Hitmen Misha Fisenko would outmuscle 2 tigers in his own end and carry the puck up the ice. If I remember right He made a nice pass over to a streaking Todd Fidler who had a step on the tigers defender. 1-0 Hitmen
2. There was a battle for the puck behind the tigers net, and I believe it was Tomas Kundratek who thought he had the puck and started to skate out front. Low and behold the puck was still behind the net and Joel Broda would sneakily do a quick wrap-around and Beat Tyler Bunz before he knew what happened. 2-0 Hitmen
Then the tigers would get on a roll scoring 6 straight goals, dominating the second period. To me it seemed like the Hitmen were putting themselves out of position going for the big hits. The tigers made them pay for it.
In the third I thought The Hitmen largely stepped off their gas pedal. They looked very flat. However late in the third they got a couple lucky breaks after the tigers scored an Empty Netter. A shot from the point would be redirected off I believe the pants of Mark Isherwood. Then the Hitmen would score on a bad angle shot that Bunz would have liked to have back.
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There were 2 incidents were tigers had run into goaltender Micheal Snider and both times he was throwing punches at the tiger intruder. One where joey frazer drove to the net and was knocked off balance, and one where Taylor Gal had a mini-breakaway and was forced off balance after a well placed shot under the crossbar.
I thought Kale Kessey, and Linden Vey had remarkable games. Kessey scored twice and threw some bone-crunching hits. The puck seemed to follow Linden Vey even when his back was turned.
I thought Bretton Cameron struggled, I thought he was fighting the puck tonight. I thought Tristan King lost too many battles along the boards. Wacey Hamilton played his usual good game, its not too often you see him play a bad game and thats a very good thing. I thought Taylor Gal also had himself a good night.
There was a new tiger in the lineup 16 year old Todd Fiddler. He looked a little unsure of where to go at times, but he also looked like he had a nice set of hands. I think he will fit in well down the road.
The tigers now get to Enjoy a Christmas break. They get a full week off before playing Regina in the hat on Sunday 27th. The tigers have an extremely Busy January where they play 15 games in 30 days. 11 of those games are on the road.
Happy Holidays!
The Hitmen started out of the gate real strong getting 2 powerplays back to back. The fans were vocal in disagreeing with the calls. The tigers would kill off those 2 powerplays however Calgary would get a couple outstanding efforts and build a quick 2-0 lead.
1. Hitmen Misha Fisenko would outmuscle 2 tigers in his own end and carry the puck up the ice. If I remember right He made a nice pass over to a streaking Todd Fidler who had a step on the tigers defender. 1-0 Hitmen
2. There was a battle for the puck behind the tigers net, and I believe it was Tomas Kundratek who thought he had the puck and started to skate out front. Low and behold the puck was still behind the net and Joel Broda would sneakily do a quick wrap-around and Beat Tyler Bunz before he knew what happened. 2-0 Hitmen
Then the tigers would get on a roll scoring 6 straight goals, dominating the second period. To me it seemed like the Hitmen were putting themselves out of position going for the big hits. The tigers made them pay for it.
In the third I thought The Hitmen largely stepped off their gas pedal. They looked very flat. However late in the third they got a couple lucky breaks after the tigers scored an Empty Netter. A shot from the point would be redirected off I believe the pants of Mark Isherwood. Then the Hitmen would score on a bad angle shot that Bunz would have liked to have back.
------------
There were 2 incidents were tigers had run into goaltender Micheal Snider and both times he was throwing punches at the tiger intruder. One where joey frazer drove to the net and was knocked off balance, and one where Taylor Gal had a mini-breakaway and was forced off balance after a well placed shot under the crossbar.
I thought Kale Kessey, and Linden Vey had remarkable games. Kessey scored twice and threw some bone-crunching hits. The puck seemed to follow Linden Vey even when his back was turned.
I thought Bretton Cameron struggled, I thought he was fighting the puck tonight. I thought Tristan King lost too many battles along the boards. Wacey Hamilton played his usual good game, its not too often you see him play a bad game and thats a very good thing. I thought Taylor Gal also had himself a good night.
There was a new tiger in the lineup 16 year old Todd Fiddler. He looked a little unsure of where to go at times, but he also looked like he had a nice set of hands. I think he will fit in well down the road.
The tigers now get to Enjoy a Christmas break. They get a full week off before playing Regina in the hat on Sunday 27th. The tigers have an extremely Busy January where they play 15 games in 30 days. 11 of those games are on the road.
Happy Holidays!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Where are they now?
Compiled a small list on former more recent Tigers and where they are currently playing.
Matt McCue - He is Playing for the Manitoba Moose of the AHL. Right now he is currently on the injured list after suffering from post-concussion symptoms. Consequently he has been limited to appearing in just 10 games.
He has racked up 4 fights so far. In his fights he has had alright showings for the most part, however you can tell its been a while since he has had opponents who can stand up to him. HE looks a bit rusty against the guys who know what they are doing.
Tyler Ennis - Ennis is playing for the Buffalo Sabers farm team the Portland Pirates. H has has 23 points in 31 games. Judging by his numbers his offense looks a little streaky, where he will score 2-3 points one night and then go cold for a couple games. Despite co-leading the ahl team in points, he is a team worst -10. Earlier in the year he had a 1 game call-up with the Sabres where he potted his first NHL goal.
Matt Keetley - Has been given a reduced workoad this year after Leland Irving took over their farm teams starting role. He was sent down to the echl for 3 games earlier in the year to get a little more playing time. He posted a remarkable 1.01 g.a.a and .930 save percentage in 3 games for the Salmon Kings of the echl.
It seems like his play is back on track though as he has started the last 2 games for the Abbotsford Heat. So far this year he has put up impressive numbers in 9 games played. A .927 save percentage followed by a 2.40 G.A.A
Sean Ringrose is playing for the Alberta Golden Bears of the CIS. His number suggest he has adjusted very well to the university game, putting up 21 points in 16 games, and an Impressive +19. The golden bears are leading the canada west division with a 14-2 record.
Daine Todd is back in action with the University of New Brunswick. In 15 games Todd has accumulated 14 points. UNB leads the CIS with a perfect 15-0 record. Todd has missed all of last season with another shoulder injury, and returned to play in October of this year.
Brennan Bosch - is playing for the Saskatchewan Huskies. He has amassed 10 points in 16 games played. He just played for the CIS all-stars which beat Team Canada in an Exhibition. Bosch scored in the game.
Josh Koper - was either just let go or reassigned from Edmonton and Is now playing for the Spruce Grove Saints of the AJHL
Travis Dunstall - after being dropped from Everett he went back to the Grande Praire Storm of the AJHL. He is currently 5th in points for the entire league with 57 points in 32 games played. He has 2 4 goal games with grande prairie.
John Stampohar - Stampohar was reassigned to the Fargo Force of the USHL by the Kamloops Blazers earlier in the year. Currently Stampohar has 0 points in 7 games with 11 penalty minutes.
Colton Grant - Playing for the Chilliwack Bruins. He has racked up 9 points in 30 games for chilliwack.
Ryan Holfeld - He was playing for the ushl's Fargo Force. He played in 6 games collecting a 3-3 record with a .832 save percentage and 3.97 G.A.A. I believe he left the team near the end of November displeased of his ice-time.
I've also found stats for him playing for the Victoria Grizzlies of the BCHL. in 11 games he has a .918 save percentage and 2.88 G.A.A to go along with 2 shutouts in 11 games played.
Yashar Farmanara - Is playing for the Western Mustangs of the CIS. Yashar has 10 points in 16 games played.
Mikael Ahlen - Is playing for Nybro IF a division 1 team. No idea on what league that is. He has put up 20 points in 22 games.
Tommy Maxwell - Is playing for the Manitoba Moose(AHL). He has racked up 4 points in 31 games to go along with 98 penalty minutes.
Chris Stevens - has played 7 games for the reading royals of the echl. He registered no points and was released by the team. I am unaware if he has joined another team or not.
Edit: There are rumors that he has joined the Ft St.John Flyers, a "AAA" senior league in B.C
David Schlemko - Is currently playing for the upstart Phoenix Coyotes. He has 5 points in 16 games, and receives around 17 minutes of ice-time a game.
Gord Baldwin - has just returned from a neck/shoulder injury. He has 8 pts in 19 games with 38 penalty minutes and is a plus 9. He plays for the Abbotsford Heat of the AHL
Roman Psurny - Playing for HC Slovan Ustecti Lvi (Czech First Division). He has been injured frequently as of late, but is putting up nearly a point per game.
Jordan Bendfeld - Is currently playing for the Stockton Thunder of the ECHL. in 17 games he has 25 penalty minutes, along with 3 points.
Brett Robertson - playing for Stfx(CIS) - He has recorded 5 points in 13 games, in the past 2 seasons he has been a point a game player.
Kevin Undershute - playing for STfx - of the CIS. Kevin has 14 points in 15 games.
Tyler Swystun playing for Calgary - of the CIS. 3 points in 15 games
Jerrid Sauer playing for Calgary - of the CIS. 8 points in 16 games. I believe he is still playing defense.
Matt McCue - He is Playing for the Manitoba Moose of the AHL. Right now he is currently on the injured list after suffering from post-concussion symptoms. Consequently he has been limited to appearing in just 10 games.
He has racked up 4 fights so far. In his fights he has had alright showings for the most part, however you can tell its been a while since he has had opponents who can stand up to him. HE looks a bit rusty against the guys who know what they are doing.
Tyler Ennis - Ennis is playing for the Buffalo Sabers farm team the Portland Pirates. H has has 23 points in 31 games. Judging by his numbers his offense looks a little streaky, where he will score 2-3 points one night and then go cold for a couple games. Despite co-leading the ahl team in points, he is a team worst -10. Earlier in the year he had a 1 game call-up with the Sabres where he potted his first NHL goal.
Matt Keetley - Has been given a reduced workoad this year after Leland Irving took over their farm teams starting role. He was sent down to the echl for 3 games earlier in the year to get a little more playing time. He posted a remarkable 1.01 g.a.a and .930 save percentage in 3 games for the Salmon Kings of the echl.
It seems like his play is back on track though as he has started the last 2 games for the Abbotsford Heat. So far this year he has put up impressive numbers in 9 games played. A .927 save percentage followed by a 2.40 G.A.A
Sean Ringrose is playing for the Alberta Golden Bears of the CIS. His number suggest he has adjusted very well to the university game, putting up 21 points in 16 games, and an Impressive +19. The golden bears are leading the canada west division with a 14-2 record.
Daine Todd is back in action with the University of New Brunswick. In 15 games Todd has accumulated 14 points. UNB leads the CIS with a perfect 15-0 record. Todd has missed all of last season with another shoulder injury, and returned to play in October of this year.
Brennan Bosch - is playing for the Saskatchewan Huskies. He has amassed 10 points in 16 games played. He just played for the CIS all-stars which beat Team Canada in an Exhibition. Bosch scored in the game.
Josh Koper - was either just let go or reassigned from Edmonton and Is now playing for the Spruce Grove Saints of the AJHL
Travis Dunstall - after being dropped from Everett he went back to the Grande Praire Storm of the AJHL. He is currently 5th in points for the entire league with 57 points in 32 games played. He has 2 4 goal games with grande prairie.
John Stampohar - Stampohar was reassigned to the Fargo Force of the USHL by the Kamloops Blazers earlier in the year. Currently Stampohar has 0 points in 7 games with 11 penalty minutes.
Colton Grant - Playing for the Chilliwack Bruins. He has racked up 9 points in 30 games for chilliwack.
Ryan Holfeld - He was playing for the ushl's Fargo Force. He played in 6 games collecting a 3-3 record with a .832 save percentage and 3.97 G.A.A. I believe he left the team near the end of November displeased of his ice-time.
I've also found stats for him playing for the Victoria Grizzlies of the BCHL. in 11 games he has a .918 save percentage and 2.88 G.A.A to go along with 2 shutouts in 11 games played.
Yashar Farmanara - Is playing for the Western Mustangs of the CIS. Yashar has 10 points in 16 games played.
Mikael Ahlen - Is playing for Nybro IF a division 1 team. No idea on what league that is. He has put up 20 points in 22 games.
Tommy Maxwell - Is playing for the Manitoba Moose(AHL). He has racked up 4 points in 31 games to go along with 98 penalty minutes.
Chris Stevens - has played 7 games for the reading royals of the echl. He registered no points and was released by the team. I am unaware if he has joined another team or not.
Edit: There are rumors that he has joined the Ft St.John Flyers, a "AAA" senior league in B.C
David Schlemko - Is currently playing for the upstart Phoenix Coyotes. He has 5 points in 16 games, and receives around 17 minutes of ice-time a game.
Gord Baldwin - has just returned from a neck/shoulder injury. He has 8 pts in 19 games with 38 penalty minutes and is a plus 9. He plays for the Abbotsford Heat of the AHL
Roman Psurny - Playing for HC Slovan Ustecti Lvi (Czech First Division). He has been injured frequently as of late, but is putting up nearly a point per game.
Jordan Bendfeld - Is currently playing for the Stockton Thunder of the ECHL. in 17 games he has 25 penalty minutes, along with 3 points.
Brett Robertson - playing for Stfx(CIS) - He has recorded 5 points in 13 games, in the past 2 seasons he has been a point a game player.
Kevin Undershute - playing for STfx - of the CIS. Kevin has 14 points in 15 games.
Tyler Swystun playing for Calgary - of the CIS. 3 points in 15 games
Jerrid Sauer playing for Calgary - of the CIS. 8 points in 16 games. I believe he is still playing defense.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Team Canada Names It's Squad
TSN Link to the final Roster: http://www.tsn.ca/world_jrs/feature/?id=13609
"Canada's junior hockey team made its final roster cuts on Wednesday morning, releasing forwards Philippe Cornet, Cody Eakin, Scott Glennie and Louis Leblanc, defencemen Tyler Cuma, Shawn Lalonde and Dylan Olsen and goaltenders Matt Hackett and Olivier Roy."
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Notable cuts are Minnesota-Deluth's Dylan Olsen. A first Round NHL pick who decided to play NCAA hockey instead of going the whl route. He was essentially in a 4 way battle for the last Defenceman's spot.
A question that I'm sure had no part whatsoever in deciding, but you gotta wonder. If Olsen had joined the Tigers If Willie Desjardin and his coaching staff might have seen more of what he had to offer.
I was also a little disappointed that Cody Eakin was cut from team Canada. From what I understand he was in a battle for the 13th forward spot with Rimouski's Jordan Caron, Boston's first round pick in the last NHL Entry Draft.
I would have liked to see a Broncos on the team as I will be watching a game or two from Swift Current.
CHL Top 10
Despite their loss to the Kootenay Ice the Medicine hat Tigers were given an honorable mention in this weeks CHL Top 10.
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Also something Funky is going on with the whl news feed.Its showing news that is over a year old.
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Josh Koper
Is now playing hockey for the spruce grove Saints. Im not sure if the Oil Kings re-assigned him or he left on his own accord.
"Canada's junior hockey team made its final roster cuts on Wednesday morning, releasing forwards Philippe Cornet, Cody Eakin, Scott Glennie and Louis Leblanc, defencemen Tyler Cuma, Shawn Lalonde and Dylan Olsen and goaltenders Matt Hackett and Olivier Roy."
-------
Notable cuts are Minnesota-Deluth's Dylan Olsen. A first Round NHL pick who decided to play NCAA hockey instead of going the whl route. He was essentially in a 4 way battle for the last Defenceman's spot.
A question that I'm sure had no part whatsoever in deciding, but you gotta wonder. If Olsen had joined the Tigers If Willie Desjardin and his coaching staff might have seen more of what he had to offer.
I was also a little disappointed that Cody Eakin was cut from team Canada. From what I understand he was in a battle for the 13th forward spot with Rimouski's Jordan Caron, Boston's first round pick in the last NHL Entry Draft.
I would have liked to see a Broncos on the team as I will be watching a game or two from Swift Current.
CHL Top 10
Despite their loss to the Kootenay Ice the Medicine hat Tigers were given an honorable mention in this weeks CHL Top 10.
------------------------
Also something Funky is going on with the whl news feed.Its showing news that is over a year old.
-----------------------------------------------
Josh Koper
Is now playing hockey for the spruce grove Saints. Im not sure if the Oil Kings re-assigned him or he left on his own accord.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Kootenay Defeats Tigers 6-4
I didn't watch the game tonight. I was planning too, however 30 minutes before gametime I submerged myself into a computer game while waiting for the game to start and lost track of time.
Well it seems the Tigers started the game off a little slow tonight. Kootenay scored the games first 4 goals, 3 of them were on the powerplay.
It was mentioned on Jeff Bromley's blog that the Tigers Bus arrived late. It sounded like the tigers missed their warm-up. Link to his blog
The tigers manged to claw their way back to within 1, however 2 quick Kootenay goals with less than minute before the second period ended would take the wind out of their sales.
Mark Isherwood was ejected from the game in the second period. He received a 2 minute slashing period, a 10 minute misconduct, and a game misconduct.
Gui Glasspoole managed his first point in the WHL getting an assist on Joey frazer's goal in the third period.
----------------------------------------
Canada Junoirs fall 4-2 TO CIS Allstars
Brennan Bosch former Tiger Captain scored a goal for the CIS All-stars.
Well it seems the Tigers started the game off a little slow tonight. Kootenay scored the games first 4 goals, 3 of them were on the powerplay.
It was mentioned on Jeff Bromley's blog that the Tigers Bus arrived late. It sounded like the tigers missed their warm-up. Link to his blog
The tigers manged to claw their way back to within 1, however 2 quick Kootenay goals with less than minute before the second period ended would take the wind out of their sales.
Mark Isherwood was ejected from the game in the second period. He received a 2 minute slashing period, a 10 minute misconduct, and a game misconduct.
Gui Glasspoole managed his first point in the WHL getting an assist on Joey frazer's goal in the third period.
----------------------------------------
Canada Junoirs fall 4-2 TO CIS Allstars
Brennan Bosch former Tiger Captain scored a goal for the CIS All-stars.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Wacey Hamilton WHL Player of the Week
CALGARY, AB. - The BOSTON PIZZA WHL Player of the Week is forward Wacey Hamilton of the Medicine Hat Tigers.
Hamilton collected 11 points, scoring two goals and nine assists to go with a +5 rating, in five games over the past week, helping the Tigers post a 5-0-0-0 record in that span, with four of the victories coming on the road.
http://www.whl.ca/tigers-wacey-hamilton-named-boston-pizza-whl-player-of-the-week-p139555
Hamilton collected 11 points, scoring two goals and nine assists to go with a +5 rating, in five games over the past week, helping the Tigers post a 5-0-0-0 record in that span, with four of the victories coming on the road.
http://www.whl.ca/tigers-wacey-hamilton-named-boston-pizza-whl-player-of-the-week-p139555
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Tigers Defeat Canes 5-4
I missed the first period.
Devan Dubyk in the net tonight. It is also the third game in three nights for the tigers. They look a little tired out there at times. I wasn't really happy with the reffing in the second period, I thought the tigers were getting the short end of the stick on a few calls.
Second Period
Lethbridge Goal 3-1
Lethbridge would go up 3-1 on a 5-3 powerplay. Jace Coyle would get called for cross checking, and Tomas Kundratek would fire the puck over the boards for a delay of game penalty. Canes Austin Fyten would walk out in front from the side of the net, and roof one over Devan Dubuk who went down a little early.
Then the tigers would start their comeback.
Tigers Goal 3-2
The tigers shot the puck on goal from the point, and their was mass confusion in front of the net, everyone trying to whack the puck. Somehow between all the bodies the puck slid under the Canes goalie Branden Anderson. Thomas Carr would get credit for his first of the year.
Tigers Goal 3-3 Tie
The tigers would get a powerplay however it would be nullified half a minute later as Tristan King got tangled up with a hurricanes player. Just as the original hurricane penalty ended giving the Canes a powerplay, Wacey Hamilton threaded a pass through a couple sticks To Taylor gal who had a mini breakaway. He would make a move outwait the goaltender to go down and fire the puck past his glove.
Tiger Goal 4-3
One of the weakest goals you can score. Emerson Etem gave a little backhanded whack at the puck as he was skating by. Somehow Branden Anderson tripped or fell over as he was on his knees and didn't see the puck slowly trickle into the net.
Third Period
A bit of a slower pace in the first 10 minutes of the third. The tigers seem content on trying to defend their lead.
Tigers Goal 5-3
Joey Frazer had a good run to the net but tripped himself and barreled into the Canes Luca Sbisa. Sbisa would take his sweet time getting off of him. The puck would come to the point and konan would fire one on net. Joey Frazer got the rebound and whacked the puck in.
Lethbridge Goal 5-4
Well no opposition lead is safe, however it seems to be the case where no tiger lead is safe either. The Hurricanes would get a powerplay after Jace Coyle gets called for a penalty.
The hurricanes did a real good job of moving the puck around, however the tigers weren't giving them any clear shooting lanes. After a couple quick passes the puck would come to carter banks along the half wal and he would wire a shot, short side past Devan Dubyk.
End Game
Thoughts
A very weird play near the end of the game. When the hurricanes goaltender was pulled for the extra attacker, he left his goal stick lying across the goal line.
It would take a minute for the refs to notice, but when the puck went into the canes end they would blow the play down and give Lethbridge an interference penalty.
I thought the tigers showed a good deal of tiredness tonight. However they battled through it and managed to find a way to win the game.
I am disappointed in how many penalties Jace Coyle has taken in the last 2 games.
I am also very pleased that Joey Frazer is starting to pick up his play. It is like he threw a switch and has won a lot more battles.
Fights
Bretton Cameron vs Mitch Maxwell (Will post the video when it comes available)
Looks like Maxwell took liberties on Tyler Bunz and Cameron answered.
----------------------------------
Link TO Medicine Hat News article
http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/168779/110/
Devan Dubyk in the net tonight. It is also the third game in three nights for the tigers. They look a little tired out there at times. I wasn't really happy with the reffing in the second period, I thought the tigers were getting the short end of the stick on a few calls.
Second Period
Lethbridge Goal 3-1
Lethbridge would go up 3-1 on a 5-3 powerplay. Jace Coyle would get called for cross checking, and Tomas Kundratek would fire the puck over the boards for a delay of game penalty. Canes Austin Fyten would walk out in front from the side of the net, and roof one over Devan Dubuk who went down a little early.
Then the tigers would start their comeback.
Tigers Goal 3-2
The tigers shot the puck on goal from the point, and their was mass confusion in front of the net, everyone trying to whack the puck. Somehow between all the bodies the puck slid under the Canes goalie Branden Anderson. Thomas Carr would get credit for his first of the year.
Tigers Goal 3-3 Tie
The tigers would get a powerplay however it would be nullified half a minute later as Tristan King got tangled up with a hurricanes player. Just as the original hurricane penalty ended giving the Canes a powerplay, Wacey Hamilton threaded a pass through a couple sticks To Taylor gal who had a mini breakaway. He would make a move outwait the goaltender to go down and fire the puck past his glove.
Tiger Goal 4-3
One of the weakest goals you can score. Emerson Etem gave a little backhanded whack at the puck as he was skating by. Somehow Branden Anderson tripped or fell over as he was on his knees and didn't see the puck slowly trickle into the net.
Third Period
A bit of a slower pace in the first 10 minutes of the third. The tigers seem content on trying to defend their lead.
Tigers Goal 5-3
Joey Frazer had a good run to the net but tripped himself and barreled into the Canes Luca Sbisa. Sbisa would take his sweet time getting off of him. The puck would come to the point and konan would fire one on net. Joey Frazer got the rebound and whacked the puck in.
Lethbridge Goal 5-4
Well no opposition lead is safe, however it seems to be the case where no tiger lead is safe either. The Hurricanes would get a powerplay after Jace Coyle gets called for a penalty.
The hurricanes did a real good job of moving the puck around, however the tigers weren't giving them any clear shooting lanes. After a couple quick passes the puck would come to carter banks along the half wal and he would wire a shot, short side past Devan Dubyk.
End Game
Thoughts
A very weird play near the end of the game. When the hurricanes goaltender was pulled for the extra attacker, he left his goal stick lying across the goal line.
It would take a minute for the refs to notice, but when the puck went into the canes end they would blow the play down and give Lethbridge an interference penalty.
I thought the tigers showed a good deal of tiredness tonight. However they battled through it and managed to find a way to win the game.
I am disappointed in how many penalties Jace Coyle has taken in the last 2 games.
I am also very pleased that Joey Frazer is starting to pick up his play. It is like he threw a switch and has won a lot more battles.
Fights
Bretton Cameron vs Mitch Maxwell (Will post the video when it comes available)
Looks like Maxwell took liberties on Tyler Bunz and Cameron answered.
----------------------------------
Link TO Medicine Hat News article
http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/168779/110/
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Tigers Defeat Hitmen 6-5 SO
Long Post
New Player in lineup: Gui GlassPoole
Wow what a Barn burner. A highly entertaining hockey game in Calgary Tonight.
3rd straight game where these two teams have gone into extra time.
It is also the second time in a row where Calgary has scored in the last second to tie the game in regulation against the Tigers.
Calgary started off getting all the bounces in the hockey game scoring the games first 3 goals.
1. CAL Fiddler, (14) (Schultz, MacKenzie), 7:18 (PP)
On the powerplay Schultz fed a cross ice pass over to Fiddler at the side of the net. Matt Konan was caught forgetting about his man at the side of the net.
1-0 Hitmen
1. CAL Broda, (18) (Schultz, Fiddler), 16:23
Tigers get caught in their own end. Clouston had the rookies out, and The Hitmen managed to get their top line out against them. Broda would do a wrap-around, and the puck looked like it banked in off a Tiger defender
2-0 Calgary
CAL Schultz, (14) , 2:26 (SH)
The tigers were on the powerplay. Thomas Carr half fans on a pass, and the Hitmen Captain walked in on a clear cut breakaway. He showed some nice hands as he deked Bunz and went upstairs.
3-0 Calgary
At this point the tigers weren't playing bad, but Calgary was getting all the breaks and they couldn't seems to penetrate Calgary's zone very effectively. Then the luck started to change.
M.H Isherwood, (11) (Gal, Hamilton), 14:13
(PP)
Isherwood gets fed a one-timer at the point and blasts one on net. The Hitmen Goaltender Micheal Snider was screened by 3 bodies in front.
3-1 Calgary
3. M.H Cameron, (26) (Kundratek), 1:39
Off a Tiger Rush Emerson Etem was knocked over by Calgary's goaltender. Wacey Hamilton would be open all alone in front, however the save was made by Snider. Then off a scramble Bretton Cameron throws a desperate backhanded whack on his knees and the puck slides into the far side. Beautiful second effort.
3-2 Calgary
3. M.H Etem, (22) (MacKay, Kessy), 2:11
Off a tiger Rush Matt MacKay makes a sweet move which makes a 2 on 4 into a 2 on1.
He feeds it over To Etem who dekes out Snider.
TIE GAME 3-3 BABY
3. M.H Etem, (23) (Konan, Kundratek), 10:50
Just after the Hitmen get a glorious chance off the post. The tigers go back up the ice. Matt Konan gets the puck at the point and blasts one on net. Their is a huge rebound and Emerson Etem makes no mistake, burying it past Micheal Snider
4-3 Tigers WOOOOO
3. CAL Schultz, (15) (Broda, Nyren), 15:51 (PP)
Calgary would get a PP after Thomas Carr would take a guy out nullifying a 2on1.
Joel Broda throws one on net, and it goes in off Of Ian Schultz skate. I am a little surprised they didn't review this one.
4-4 Tie Game
3. M.H Etem, (24) (Konan), 17:02
Emerson Etem would finish off his hat-trick and show why he is a potential first round draft pick. Splitting the Calgary Defense and blowing past them. He would then Deke out Micheal Snider. Giving the tigers back the lead.
5-4 Tigers
3. CAL Fiddler, (15) (Nyren, Broda), 19:59 (PP)
A heartbreaker. Isherwood would get penalized after battling a rebound over the glass with his glove. Giffen Nyren would shoot the puck on net with about 4 seconds left. Tyler Fiddler was johnny on the post, whacking in the rebound before Kundratek could get over their.
5-5 Tie Game
End of Regulation
Overtime
Despite each team getting a powerplay, neither team would get a shot on goal.
Shootout
Tristan King would throw out multiple fakes and deke glove side, but Snider read his move.
Jace Coyle would put on some speed, then slow right down, and shoot the puck five hole for a goal.
Bretton Cameron - Would rifle the shot upstairs to seal the victory.
Thoughts
Its too bad the tigers couldn't close the deal in regulation. Essentially thats 3 points Calgary has stolen away in the dying seconds of the game.
They had Calgary on their heels big time in the third. The tigers rookie line didn't receive much ice time after they were scored in earlier in the game.
I thought Emerson Etem, and Matt MacKay had very strong games. Cameron, Vey, and Hamilton had their usual good games. I thought Thomas Carr had a bit of an off night. He didn't play bad but there were 2 unlucky plays that indirectly led to 2 Calgary goals.
Their was a weird play in the first period. Where Mark Isherwood wired a shot on net. It looked extremely close, and to be honest my first reaction was wow that looked like a goal but the play would continue and a minute later a whistle would stop play.
The refs halt the game for 5-8 minutes and review the play. After much deliberation and a video review they decided it was no goal.
-------------------------------------------
Fights
Matt Konan vs Ben Wilson
Tomas Kundratek absolutely nailed Wilson with his head down crossing the blueline. Behind the play these two start throwing punches. Konan lands a couple good ones to the helmet. But then Wilson throws a hard punch under Konan's visor which would topple him over. Konan had a huge height advantage but didn't use that reach to his advantage. Decision: Ben Wilson
Bretton Cameron vs Ian Schultz
- Cameron threw a borderline hit from behind on a Hitman player. Schultz didn't like it one bit and skated over to Cameron, they had a few words and dropped the gloves.
It was a longer fight and Cameron hung in their pretty well but he was a little over matched against a tough opponent in Schultz. Cameron landed a good shot or two, but Schultz landed about 5-6 better ones. Decision: Ian Schultz
---------------------------------
Ryan Hollweg Gets Some Revenge on the Player that knocked him out with a severe concussion in junior.
New Player in lineup: Gui GlassPoole
Wow what a Barn burner. A highly entertaining hockey game in Calgary Tonight.
3rd straight game where these two teams have gone into extra time.
It is also the second time in a row where Calgary has scored in the last second to tie the game in regulation against the Tigers.
Calgary started off getting all the bounces in the hockey game scoring the games first 3 goals.
1. CAL Fiddler, (14) (Schultz, MacKenzie), 7:18 (PP)
On the powerplay Schultz fed a cross ice pass over to Fiddler at the side of the net. Matt Konan was caught forgetting about his man at the side of the net.
1-0 Hitmen
1. CAL Broda, (18) (Schultz, Fiddler), 16:23
Tigers get caught in their own end. Clouston had the rookies out, and The Hitmen managed to get their top line out against them. Broda would do a wrap-around, and the puck looked like it banked in off a Tiger defender
2-0 Calgary
CAL Schultz, (14) , 2:26 (SH)
The tigers were on the powerplay. Thomas Carr half fans on a pass, and the Hitmen Captain walked in on a clear cut breakaway. He showed some nice hands as he deked Bunz and went upstairs.
3-0 Calgary
At this point the tigers weren't playing bad, but Calgary was getting all the breaks and they couldn't seems to penetrate Calgary's zone very effectively. Then the luck started to change.
M.H Isherwood, (11) (Gal, Hamilton), 14:13
(PP)
Isherwood gets fed a one-timer at the point and blasts one on net. The Hitmen Goaltender Micheal Snider was screened by 3 bodies in front.
3-1 Calgary
3. M.H Cameron, (26) (Kundratek), 1:39
Off a Tiger Rush Emerson Etem was knocked over by Calgary's goaltender. Wacey Hamilton would be open all alone in front, however the save was made by Snider. Then off a scramble Bretton Cameron throws a desperate backhanded whack on his knees and the puck slides into the far side. Beautiful second effort.
3-2 Calgary
3. M.H Etem, (22) (MacKay, Kessy), 2:11
Off a tiger Rush Matt MacKay makes a sweet move which makes a 2 on 4 into a 2 on1.
He feeds it over To Etem who dekes out Snider.
TIE GAME 3-3 BABY
3. M.H Etem, (23) (Konan, Kundratek), 10:50
Just after the Hitmen get a glorious chance off the post. The tigers go back up the ice. Matt Konan gets the puck at the point and blasts one on net. Their is a huge rebound and Emerson Etem makes no mistake, burying it past Micheal Snider
4-3 Tigers WOOOOO
3. CAL Schultz, (15) (Broda, Nyren), 15:51 (PP)
Calgary would get a PP after Thomas Carr would take a guy out nullifying a 2on1.
Joel Broda throws one on net, and it goes in off Of Ian Schultz skate. I am a little surprised they didn't review this one.
4-4 Tie Game
3. M.H Etem, (24) (Konan), 17:02
Emerson Etem would finish off his hat-trick and show why he is a potential first round draft pick. Splitting the Calgary Defense and blowing past them. He would then Deke out Micheal Snider. Giving the tigers back the lead.
5-4 Tigers
3. CAL Fiddler, (15) (Nyren, Broda), 19:59 (PP)
A heartbreaker. Isherwood would get penalized after battling a rebound over the glass with his glove. Giffen Nyren would shoot the puck on net with about 4 seconds left. Tyler Fiddler was johnny on the post, whacking in the rebound before Kundratek could get over their.
5-5 Tie Game
End of Regulation
Overtime
Despite each team getting a powerplay, neither team would get a shot on goal.
Shootout
Tristan King would throw out multiple fakes and deke glove side, but Snider read his move.
Jace Coyle would put on some speed, then slow right down, and shoot the puck five hole for a goal.
Bretton Cameron - Would rifle the shot upstairs to seal the victory.
Thoughts
Its too bad the tigers couldn't close the deal in regulation. Essentially thats 3 points Calgary has stolen away in the dying seconds of the game.
They had Calgary on their heels big time in the third. The tigers rookie line didn't receive much ice time after they were scored in earlier in the game.
I thought Emerson Etem, and Matt MacKay had very strong games. Cameron, Vey, and Hamilton had their usual good games. I thought Thomas Carr had a bit of an off night. He didn't play bad but there were 2 unlucky plays that indirectly led to 2 Calgary goals.
Their was a weird play in the first period. Where Mark Isherwood wired a shot on net. It looked extremely close, and to be honest my first reaction was wow that looked like a goal but the play would continue and a minute later a whistle would stop play.
The refs halt the game for 5-8 minutes and review the play. After much deliberation and a video review they decided it was no goal.
-------------------------------------------
Fights
Matt Konan vs Ben Wilson
Tomas Kundratek absolutely nailed Wilson with his head down crossing the blueline. Behind the play these two start throwing punches. Konan lands a couple good ones to the helmet. But then Wilson throws a hard punch under Konan's visor which would topple him over. Konan had a huge height advantage but didn't use that reach to his advantage. Decision: Ben Wilson
Bretton Cameron vs Ian Schultz
- Cameron threw a borderline hit from behind on a Hitman player. Schultz didn't like it one bit and skated over to Cameron, they had a few words and dropped the gloves.
It was a longer fight and Cameron hung in their pretty well but he was a little over matched against a tough opponent in Schultz. Cameron landed a good shot or two, but Schultz landed about 5-6 better ones. Decision: Ian Schultz
---------------------------------
Ryan Hollweg Gets Some Revenge on the Player that knocked him out with a severe concussion in junior.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Tigers Defeat Regina 7-2
It was a very chippy game tonight. I believe both sides ended up with a few injuries. It was almost like a playoff atmosphere game, until the tigers took control.
For the tigers Mark Isherwood took an elbow then fell awkwardly on his shoulder, and he didn't return to the game.
Taylor Gal was the recipient of a Craig Orfino charge from across the rink. Gal went off the ice looking like he also had a bum shoulder, I don't believe he returned to the game either.
Thomas Carr would exact some measure of revenge engaging Craig Orfino in a fight a couple shifts later. Both were exchanging punches but I thought Carr got the better Of him as he landed a wicked uppercut, and a couple other solid shots to the face.
I thought Regina skated with the tigers fairly well for most of the first two periods, but they were falling apart defensively in the third period. The tigers caught them off line changes for odd man rushes on 2 or 3 straight changes.
Colton Tuebert snapped in the third period. Going after Tristan King and throwing punches then on his way to the box he engaged Thomas Kundratek in a mini-fight. Kundratek was more than happy to oblige, but the refs were in the way.
I thought Clouston did a great job of managing the bench tonight, I liked how he gave the rookies some powerplay time.
Scott McKay scored his first goal of the year to finish off a 3 goal flurry in just over a minute to put the game away with authority.
Overall I thought the tigers played a very good hockey game. They had a little lapse during the second half of the first period, but they managed to come back strong in the second period.
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Kale Kessey
I've said it before but this guy has to be more careful on throwing hits.
I like seeing him make clean hard body checks, but some of them are borderline dangerous.
If the guy has his back turned or half turned into the boards, you cant go full tilt into him, you have to lay up and give him a small bump.
For the tigers Mark Isherwood took an elbow then fell awkwardly on his shoulder, and he didn't return to the game.
Taylor Gal was the recipient of a Craig Orfino charge from across the rink. Gal went off the ice looking like he also had a bum shoulder, I don't believe he returned to the game either.
Thomas Carr would exact some measure of revenge engaging Craig Orfino in a fight a couple shifts later. Both were exchanging punches but I thought Carr got the better Of him as he landed a wicked uppercut, and a couple other solid shots to the face.
I thought Regina skated with the tigers fairly well for most of the first two periods, but they were falling apart defensively in the third period. The tigers caught them off line changes for odd man rushes on 2 or 3 straight changes.
Colton Tuebert snapped in the third period. Going after Tristan King and throwing punches then on his way to the box he engaged Thomas Kundratek in a mini-fight. Kundratek was more than happy to oblige, but the refs were in the way.
I thought Clouston did a great job of managing the bench tonight, I liked how he gave the rookies some powerplay time.
Scott McKay scored his first goal of the year to finish off a 3 goal flurry in just over a minute to put the game away with authority.
Overall I thought the tigers played a very good hockey game. They had a little lapse during the second half of the first period, but they managed to come back strong in the second period.
----------------------------------
Kale Kessey
I've said it before but this guy has to be more careful on throwing hits.
I like seeing him make clean hard body checks, but some of them are borderline dangerous.
If the guy has his back turned or half turned into the boards, you cant go full tilt into him, you have to lay up and give him a small bump.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Christmas Confusion
To make a long story short, I clicked a wrong button trying to save my blog template and it reverted to an original blogger template.
Funny how that happens, trying to make a backup copy then before you can save it you completely obliterate the original. /sigh....oh well
Shouldn't take too much work to redo, I'm sure it I will have it close to what it was before next week.
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On another note it looks like Regina May be trying to gear up for an extended run. They managed to acquire a couple pieces of trade bait from Lethbridge in Ashton Carter, and grinder Craig Orfino.
I am surprised that Regina made this move.
I think Regina Will be trying to make its case as a team to be reckoned with. I would expect a couple more moves from them to bolster their lineup, otherwise the trade doesn't make much sense.
Ultimately they are taking a risk, and well no one comes out on top without taking any, but if they don't make any playoff noise this year, they may regret the trade later.
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Tigers Defeat Red Deer 2-1 SO
A lot of studying going on and I completely forgot about the game. It sounds like Tyler Bunz stole the show in the third period, as Red Deer peppered 22 shots on him in the third alone.
For the MH News article on the game go here
I will start updating this site more regularly starting on friday.
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Fight videos from the lethbridge game.
Funny how that happens, trying to make a backup copy then before you can save it you completely obliterate the original. /sigh....oh well
Shouldn't take too much work to redo, I'm sure it I will have it close to what it was before next week.
-------------
On another note it looks like Regina May be trying to gear up for an extended run. They managed to acquire a couple pieces of trade bait from Lethbridge in Ashton Carter, and grinder Craig Orfino.
I am surprised that Regina made this move.
I think Regina Will be trying to make its case as a team to be reckoned with. I would expect a couple more moves from them to bolster their lineup, otherwise the trade doesn't make much sense.
Ultimately they are taking a risk, and well no one comes out on top without taking any, but if they don't make any playoff noise this year, they may regret the trade later.
-------------------
Tigers Defeat Red Deer 2-1 SO
A lot of studying going on and I completely forgot about the game. It sounds like Tyler Bunz stole the show in the third period, as Red Deer peppered 22 shots on him in the third alone.
For the MH News article on the game go here
I will start updating this site more regularly starting on friday.
---------------------------------------
Fight videos from the lethbridge game.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Tigers Defeat Canes 4-3
I missed the first period.
The Tigers managed to take a 3-0 lead into the third period. They kept Lethbridge to only 9 shots for the first 2 periods .I thought the tigers played an average road game from what I saw, but the Hurricanes really didn't put on a charge until the third period.
I thought the Tigers defensive game could use another practice or two to work on. They are starting to get that tunnel vision and forgetting about an open man streaking in late.
Lethbridge came on strong in the third, and the tigers were guilty of standing and watching the play. Lethbridge would score two goals very quickly, and were right back in the game. I believe the second goal went in off a tiger at the side of the net.
Tristan King would put the tigers back into a 2 goal (4-2) lead, as he manged a partial break with 2 canes closing on either side. He rifled a laser over the shoulder of Ville Kolpannen from the top of the circle.
Lethbridge defensman Brennan Yadlowski would get his first of the year after waiting out 2 tigers attempts to block a shot. Yadlowski would just throw the puck towards the net and it looked like it may have been redirected as it was a softer shot but Bunz looked like he had trouble seeing the play, as their was lots of traffic in front.
The tigers would hold on for the 4-3 victory as the canes never really got a good chance in the final minute and a half with the goalie pulled.
Fights (videos to be posted later)
Tigers Tanner Sohn fought Lethbridge tough guy overager Dustin Donaghy twice in the game. In their first fight Donaghy knocked Sohn down twice. Sohn would leave the game temporarily and then come back.
In their second fight Sohn tried a different strategy of keeping far back then trying to land bombs with his right. However Donaghy managed to throw a few of those short left jabs which would eventually knock Sohn off balance. Sohn would throw a big punch just as the refs came in. Give Sohn credit for the balls to go another round.
I would give both fights To Donaghy, but it looked like Sohn may have connected with that last punch in thier second fight as Donaghy didn't look very happy.
Kale Kessey vs Brent Henke
I missed this one but I will post the video later. The Canes broadcaster said it was a fairly even fight with punches being thrown from both sides.
The Tigers managed to take a 3-0 lead into the third period. They kept Lethbridge to only 9 shots for the first 2 periods .I thought the tigers played an average road game from what I saw, but the Hurricanes really didn't put on a charge until the third period.
I thought the Tigers defensive game could use another practice or two to work on. They are starting to get that tunnel vision and forgetting about an open man streaking in late.
Lethbridge came on strong in the third, and the tigers were guilty of standing and watching the play. Lethbridge would score two goals very quickly, and were right back in the game. I believe the second goal went in off a tiger at the side of the net.
Tristan King would put the tigers back into a 2 goal (4-2) lead, as he manged a partial break with 2 canes closing on either side. He rifled a laser over the shoulder of Ville Kolpannen from the top of the circle.
Lethbridge defensman Brennan Yadlowski would get his first of the year after waiting out 2 tigers attempts to block a shot. Yadlowski would just throw the puck towards the net and it looked like it may have been redirected as it was a softer shot but Bunz looked like he had trouble seeing the play, as their was lots of traffic in front.
The tigers would hold on for the 4-3 victory as the canes never really got a good chance in the final minute and a half with the goalie pulled.
Fights (videos to be posted later)
Tigers Tanner Sohn fought Lethbridge tough guy overager Dustin Donaghy twice in the game. In their first fight Donaghy knocked Sohn down twice. Sohn would leave the game temporarily and then come back.
In their second fight Sohn tried a different strategy of keeping far back then trying to land bombs with his right. However Donaghy managed to throw a few of those short left jabs which would eventually knock Sohn off balance. Sohn would throw a big punch just as the refs came in. Give Sohn credit for the balls to go another round.
I would give both fights To Donaghy, but it looked like Sohn may have connected with that last punch in thier second fight as Donaghy didn't look very happy.
Kale Kessey vs Brent Henke
I missed this one but I will post the video later. The Canes broadcaster said it was a fairly even fight with punches being thrown from both sides.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Tigers Vs Lethbridge Postponed
Calgary, AB - Due to the weather and poor road conditions, the Western Hockey League regrets to announce that tonight’s match-up between the Medicine Hat Tigers and Lethbridge Hurricanes, originally scheduled to be played Saturday, December 5 at 7PM in Lethbridge, has been canceled. This game has been rescheduled to be played on Monday, December 7th with a 7PM start time.
http://www.whl.ca/whl-announces-hurricanes--tigers-game-postponed-p139338
http://www.whl.ca/whl-announces-hurricanes--tigers-game-postponed-p139338
Friday, December 4, 2009
Kris Russel's First NHL FIght
-----------------------
Blades vs Tigers tonight at the Arena - Teddy Bear Toque & Mittens Toss Night
The Blades will be looking to rebound after Brandon beat them convincingly 7-2 in Brandon on Wednesday.
The last time I watched Saskatoon on the webcast they played a very physical style of game.
Jace Coyle and Matt Konan missed the previous game with day to day type injuries, hopefully their both ready to go. Jyri Niemi and Curtis Hamilton are injured for Saskatoon.
---------------------
Emerson Etem
An article done on him by NHl.com
Go here for the full link
"He's had a real quick adjustment," Medicine Hat coach Willie Desjardins told NHL.com. "He really wants to be a player. He worked hard in the offseason so he's in great physical shape. He knew a lot about our league coming in. He studied it, he researched it, he knew what he was getting into. He's adjusted real quickly."
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Team Canada WJC Camp Roster Announced
No Tigers players made the camp
Two Players who in the past were tigers property made the camp: Dylan Olsen, and Patrick Weircioch.
Click here for the full roster
The U.S announced their camp roster for this year as well and Emerson Etem was not on the list either.
----------------------------------
I'm not surprised that no tigers were picked. I think they may have considered linden Vey for a spot, but realized he is more of a scorer, rather than a grinder. With soo many high scoring forwards already on the roster Vey wold have been given a grinder type role, and I think their are other players who would do a better job at that role.
With okal being injured, and kundratek to old to play for the czechs we will have to hope that Willie Desjardin can bring home another gold.
From what Bob Mackenzie said on the TV it looks like competition will be very close as the swedes, Russians, and the U.S should have good teams.
I believe there are about 7 players who could be on the team that are playing in the nhl.
Two Players who in the past were tigers property made the camp: Dylan Olsen, and Patrick Weircioch.
Click here for the full roster
The U.S announced their camp roster for this year as well and Emerson Etem was not on the list either.
----------------------------------
I'm not surprised that no tigers were picked. I think they may have considered linden Vey for a spot, but realized he is more of a scorer, rather than a grinder. With soo many high scoring forwards already on the roster Vey wold have been given a grinder type role, and I think their are other players who would do a better job at that role.
With okal being injured, and kundratek to old to play for the czechs we will have to hope that Willie Desjardin can bring home another gold.
From what Bob Mackenzie said on the TV it looks like competition will be very close as the swedes, Russians, and the U.S should have good teams.
I believe there are about 7 players who could be on the team that are playing in the nhl.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
WJ Roster Camp Invites Announced Tomorrow
With less than a month to go until the puck drops at the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship, Canada takes its next step towards capturing their sixth straight gold medal when they announce the selection camp roster on Wednesday.
Join host Cory Woron and hockey insider Bob McKenzie as Hockey Canada makes the announcement live on TSN.ca at Noon et/9am pt. Following the announcement, McKenzie will break down the player selection and there will be a one-on-one interview with Team Canada head coach Willie Desjardins.
-Full article at tsn
Edit: The U.S Camp invites will also be announced tomorow.
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I am hoping that Linden Vey and/or Wacey Hamilton gets invited. It would be nice to see 1 tiger on Team Canada. However I think their chances of getting selected are on the bubble.
I wont be able to make todays game vs lethbridge, so no recaps tonight. Tonights game is also On Shaw TV.
---------------
Sportsnet
Rogers Sportsnet has come out with their tv schedule of this years game.
The tigers are included in one game.
Sun. Jan. 24 – Medicine Hat Tigers at Edmonton Oil Kings (National) – 5:00 pm Mountain.
FOr the full list go here: www.whl.ca
Join host Cory Woron and hockey insider Bob McKenzie as Hockey Canada makes the announcement live on TSN.ca at Noon et/9am pt. Following the announcement, McKenzie will break down the player selection and there will be a one-on-one interview with Team Canada head coach Willie Desjardins.
-Full article at tsn
Edit: The U.S Camp invites will also be announced tomorow.
--------------
I am hoping that Linden Vey and/or Wacey Hamilton gets invited. It would be nice to see 1 tiger on Team Canada. However I think their chances of getting selected are on the bubble.
I wont be able to make todays game vs lethbridge, so no recaps tonight. Tonights game is also On Shaw TV.
---------------
Sportsnet
Rogers Sportsnet has come out with their tv schedule of this years game.
The tigers are included in one game.
Sun. Jan. 24 – Medicine Hat Tigers at Edmonton Oil Kings (National) – 5:00 pm Mountain.
FOr the full list go here: www.whl.ca
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Early Monday
Fights from Red Deer
Kale Kessey VS Turner Elson
Not much of a fight. Kessey Slipped early.
Bretton Cameron vs Alex Petrovic
Petrovic gets the decision. Didn't really look like Cameron initially wanted to fight but Petrovic wasnt letting the one linesman break it up. Petrovic was angered after a buzzer bodycheck sandwich from Cameron and Hamilton.
-------------------------
Link to the MH News article: http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/162048/110/
Kale Kessey VS Turner Elson
Not much of a fight. Kessey Slipped early.
Bretton Cameron vs Alex Petrovic
Petrovic gets the decision. Didn't really look like Cameron initially wanted to fight but Petrovic wasnt letting the one linesman break it up. Petrovic was angered after a buzzer bodycheck sandwich from Cameron and Hamilton.
-------------------------
Link to the MH News article: http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/162048/110/
Tigers Defeat Red Deer 4-1
No recap tonight unfortunately.I will probably link fight videos, and possible articles about the game later
I was at the Three Days Grace concert that was held at the Arena Saturday Night. They put on a phenomenal show. Opening up for them were: The Used, and Default.
Just a bit of a heads up that updates during the next two weeks may continue to be sparse. It is pretty much crunch time for College Students, and I am still trying to catch up from the week I missed after catching the swine flu.
Teddy Bear Toss
This year it is December 4th VS the Saskatoon Blades. Saskatoon is on fire right now only having lost 3 games all year. They are a very physical team.
The Tigers play Lethbridge Tuesday night at the Arena.
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Ryan Holfeld Update.
He has joined the New Victoria Grizzles of the bchl. Holfeld had been playing for the ushl's Fargo Force. Apparently he wasn't satisfied with the icetime he had been receiving. He had only played 6 games for the Force registering 3 wins 3 losses, with a 3.97 G.A.A and .832 save percentage
I was at the Three Days Grace concert that was held at the Arena Saturday Night. They put on a phenomenal show. Opening up for them were: The Used, and Default.
Just a bit of a heads up that updates during the next two weeks may continue to be sparse. It is pretty much crunch time for College Students, and I am still trying to catch up from the week I missed after catching the swine flu.
Teddy Bear Toss
This year it is December 4th VS the Saskatoon Blades. Saskatoon is on fire right now only having lost 3 games all year. They are a very physical team.
The Tigers play Lethbridge Tuesday night at the Arena.
----------------------------------
Ryan Holfeld Update.
He has joined the New Victoria Grizzles of the bchl. Holfeld had been playing for the ushl's Fargo Force. Apparently he wasn't satisfied with the icetime he had been receiving. He had only played 6 games for the Force registering 3 wins 3 losses, with a 3.97 G.A.A and .832 save percentage
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Team WHL Defeats Russia 4-2
Linden Vey and Wacey Hamilton were split up for this game.
Linden Vey had a goal and a +1
Hamilton had 2 PM's in the game. He was wearing an "A" for the game.
It seems like Sportsnet decided to air todays game on a tape delay. Its funny that it will appear on Sportsnet Ontario before airing in the west.
GO here for the game summary.
http://www.leaguestat.com/chl/canrus/en/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=92
Linden Vey had a goal and a +1
Hamilton had 2 PM's in the game. He was wearing an "A" for the game.
It seems like Sportsnet decided to air todays game on a tape delay. Its funny that it will appear on Sportsnet Ontario before airing in the west.
GO here for the game summary.
http://www.leaguestat.com/chl/canrus/en/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=92
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
WHL vs Russia + Okal Injury
*Team WHL spoilers*.
I half watched the game while doing other activities.
Team WHL defeated Russia 2-1.
I thought Wacey Hamilton and Linden Vey looked a bit nervous for the first two periods.
They were both on the same line. Willie looked like he was rotating all the lines.
Wacey Hamilton would get the eventual game winner as he put team whl up 2-0. Linden Vey made a shot/pass to the middle, and Wacey made a very nice tip and put it over the shoulder of Russia's goaltender.
Other breif thoughts.
I liked Levko Koper from spokane, he seemed involved in a lot of plays. Eberle, Schenn, Eakin line looked really good.
I thought Jared Cowen looked a little slow.
I liked Russia's Kirill Petrov he undressed a couple team WHL defenders.
Wacey Hamilton was on the ice for Russia's last goal. Their line was scheduled to come out on the ice, but Linden Vey wasn't out there yet. Hamilton was playing the left wing and the play developed off the right wing side.
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Dusters for Dollars
The tigers have also reached their goal of raising $10,000 dollars for the Canadian Cancer Society. Willie Desjardin will get his mustached shaved on friday. Tigershockey.com reports that it will be the first time he has completely shaved his mustache in 30 years.
They are still accepting donations until November 30th
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Zdenik Okal Suffers Major Injury
Apparently his injury is pretty serious. They had to sew up a vein, he had a nick on one of his tendons, and they had to put back a major nerve. Right now he has been told that he shouldn't be moving his hand very much at all. He is listed out for 6-8 weeks.
The News mentions that Okal had received an invitation to the Czechs national junior camp. It appears as thought he may have to miss out on that unless his injury can heal up quickly.
The tigers in the meantime have called up 18-year-old right winger Josh Lazowski, and expect him to dress for a number of future games. Lazowski has been property of the Seattle Thunderbirds and Red Deer Rebels at one point.
More can be read from the full article at the Mh News website.
http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/160390/110/
I half watched the game while doing other activities.
Team WHL defeated Russia 2-1.
I thought Wacey Hamilton and Linden Vey looked a bit nervous for the first two periods.
They were both on the same line. Willie looked like he was rotating all the lines.
Wacey Hamilton would get the eventual game winner as he put team whl up 2-0. Linden Vey made a shot/pass to the middle, and Wacey made a very nice tip and put it over the shoulder of Russia's goaltender.
Other breif thoughts.
I liked Levko Koper from spokane, he seemed involved in a lot of plays. Eberle, Schenn, Eakin line looked really good.
I thought Jared Cowen looked a little slow.
I liked Russia's Kirill Petrov he undressed a couple team WHL defenders.
Wacey Hamilton was on the ice for Russia's last goal. Their line was scheduled to come out on the ice, but Linden Vey wasn't out there yet. Hamilton was playing the left wing and the play developed off the right wing side.
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Dusters for Dollars
The tigers have also reached their goal of raising $10,000 dollars for the Canadian Cancer Society. Willie Desjardin will get his mustached shaved on friday. Tigershockey.com reports that it will be the first time he has completely shaved his mustache in 30 years.
They are still accepting donations until November 30th
--------------------------
Zdenik Okal Suffers Major Injury
Apparently his injury is pretty serious. They had to sew up a vein, he had a nick on one of his tendons, and they had to put back a major nerve. Right now he has been told that he shouldn't be moving his hand very much at all. He is listed out for 6-8 weeks.
The News mentions that Okal had received an invitation to the Czechs national junior camp. It appears as thought he may have to miss out on that unless his injury can heal up quickly.
The tigers in the meantime have called up 18-year-old right winger Josh Lazowski, and expect him to dress for a number of future games. Lazowski has been property of the Seattle Thunderbirds and Red Deer Rebels at one point.
More can be read from the full article at the Mh News website.
http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/160390/110/
Team WHL takes on the Russians
Tigers Wacey Hamilton and Linden Vey are expected to play in both games today, and tomorrow. Willie Desjardin will be coaching the team.
Jon Keen over at Keens Corner reports that the Bronco's Justin Dowling was Centering Hamilton and Vey during a whl practice.
Sportsnet Pacific
If you have a satellite of some sort you can watch the game live on sportsnet pacific at 8:00 mtn time.
Sportsnet West
If you just have Sportsnet west you will have to wait and watch it at midnight on a tape delay. That is a bit stupid IMO, but I guess more people may be interested in the daily sports highlights or the Oilers games than the russia vs whl game.
Russians have lost all 4 games of their series so far.
Linden Vey has this to say about todays game.
“I think anytime you put a Canadian team against the Russians, it’s going to be a special game,” said Vey, who will join Tigers’ teammate Wacey Hamilton on the Team WHL roster “It’s usually going to be a close game and a hard-fought battle.
“I know the Russians have played four good games versus the QMJHL and OHL so far, and I’m looking forward to seeing what we can do against them,” added the Los Angeles Kings draft pick.
-Courtesy www.whl.ca
For a link to the main super Series website go here
http://www.subwaysuperseries.com/
Jon Keen over at Keens Corner reports that the Bronco's Justin Dowling was Centering Hamilton and Vey during a whl practice.
Sportsnet Pacific
If you have a satellite of some sort you can watch the game live on sportsnet pacific at 8:00 mtn time.
Sportsnet West
If you just have Sportsnet west you will have to wait and watch it at midnight on a tape delay. That is a bit stupid IMO, but I guess more people may be interested in the daily sports highlights or the Oilers games than the russia vs whl game.
Russians have lost all 4 games of their series so far.
Linden Vey has this to say about todays game.
“I think anytime you put a Canadian team against the Russians, it’s going to be a special game,” said Vey, who will join Tigers’ teammate Wacey Hamilton on the Team WHL roster “It’s usually going to be a close game and a hard-fought battle.
“I know the Russians have played four good games versus the QMJHL and OHL so far, and I’m looking forward to seeing what we can do against them,” added the Los Angeles Kings draft pick.
-Courtesy www.whl.ca
For a link to the main super Series website go here
http://www.subwaysuperseries.com/
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Tigers Defeat Rebels 3-1
Link to the game highlights
http://www.tigershockey.com/multimedia/mc.php?cat=hilites
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www.tigershockey.com News article
Medicine Hat, AB - The Medicine Hat Tigers defeated the Red Deer Rebels 3-1 for their fifth straight home victory Sunday night.
Tigers rookie forward Emerson Etem scored two goals - his rookie leaque leading 18th and 19th - and added an assist to lead the Tigers to their 11th victory on home ice this season.
Also scoring for the Tigers, who led 3-0 at one point, was defenceman Tomas Kundratek with his first goal of the season.
Forward Linden Vey added two assists.
Medicine Hat goaltender Tyler Bunz (12-7-2-2) stopped 38 of 39 for his fourth win in five starts.
The Tigers scored all three of their goals on the power play, finishing 3 for 4, while Red Deer was 1 for 4 with the man advantage.
The Tigers next opponent is the Lethbridge Hurricanes on Tuesday, December 1st. Game time is 7:00pm (CST) and can be heard live on CHAT 94.5 fm at tigershockey.com or watched via webcast at livestream.whl.ca.
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I'll link the fight videos tomorrow if they pop up at hockeyfights.com.
Zdenek Okal
Looks like he will be out 4-6 weeks. Kruger mentioned that there was some slight tendon damage. If it takes longer than 4 weeks to heal he might miss playing for the czech's in the world junior tourney.
---
Link to MH news article
http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/159452/110/
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Fight Videos
Lane Scheidl vs Thomas Carr
Nathan Green vs Mark Isherwood & Cullen Morin vs Bretton Cameron
http://www.tigershockey.com/multimedia/mc.php?cat=hilites
---
www.tigershockey.com News article
Medicine Hat, AB - The Medicine Hat Tigers defeated the Red Deer Rebels 3-1 for their fifth straight home victory Sunday night.
Tigers rookie forward Emerson Etem scored two goals - his rookie leaque leading 18th and 19th - and added an assist to lead the Tigers to their 11th victory on home ice this season.
Also scoring for the Tigers, who led 3-0 at one point, was defenceman Tomas Kundratek with his first goal of the season.
Forward Linden Vey added two assists.
Medicine Hat goaltender Tyler Bunz (12-7-2-2) stopped 38 of 39 for his fourth win in five starts.
The Tigers scored all three of their goals on the power play, finishing 3 for 4, while Red Deer was 1 for 4 with the man advantage.
The Tigers next opponent is the Lethbridge Hurricanes on Tuesday, December 1st. Game time is 7:00pm (CST) and can be heard live on CHAT 94.5 fm at tigershockey.com or watched via webcast at livestream.whl.ca.
-----------------
I'll link the fight videos tomorrow if they pop up at hockeyfights.com.
Zdenek Okal
Looks like he will be out 4-6 weeks. Kruger mentioned that there was some slight tendon damage. If it takes longer than 4 weeks to heal he might miss playing for the czech's in the world junior tourney.
---
Link to MH news article
http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/159452/110/
------
Fight Videos
Lane Scheidl vs Thomas Carr
Nathan Green vs Mark Isherwood & Cullen Morin vs Bretton Cameron
Friday, November 20, 2009
Tigers Defeat Raiders 6-4
I thought the tigers played a pretty good first period. The bounces didn't really go their way, but they changed that around later in the game.
In the first period the tigers had a goal disallowed, and Bunz let in a partially screened flutter shot that no doubt he would have liked to have back. A dominating period was suddenly a tie game.
I thought the tigers started getting away from their defensive systems that had worked so well in previous games. They gave up a lot of shots. It looked like Bunz was a little late reacting to pucks in todays game.
I liked numerous player tonight, The Hamilton, Cameron, Kessey line played extremely well. I thought Linden Vey had a good game. The Rookie line of Reid Petryk, Dylan Bredo, S. Mckay I thought had a few outstanding shifts, Keeping P.A in their own end for a good minute straight. Taylor Gal played another solid game. Gal would be my choice for most improved this year.
Thomas Carr had an intense fight with Raider Garret Taylor. Both guys were just chuckin the fists. Thomas Carr landed a few bombs and had Garret Taylor at his mercy when the refs stepped in.
Tough Break For Joey Frazer. Finally scoring a goal on a shot he fanned on, then after a long goal review the refs waved it off.
The refs put their whistles away in the first, and let a lot of stuff go that would have been called normally.
Injury
Zdenik Okal looked to be in a lot of discomfort after getting his wrist stepped on. A long pool of blood trailed to the tigers bench. Hopefully no tendons were cut.
Tritan King was still out with the cold/flu bug. They think he will be ready for Sundays game.
Bretton Cameron is now tied with Cody Eakin for most goals scored in the league. Although the tigers have played 3 more games.
In the first period the tigers had a goal disallowed, and Bunz let in a partially screened flutter shot that no doubt he would have liked to have back. A dominating period was suddenly a tie game.
I thought the tigers started getting away from their defensive systems that had worked so well in previous games. They gave up a lot of shots. It looked like Bunz was a little late reacting to pucks in todays game.
I liked numerous player tonight, The Hamilton, Cameron, Kessey line played extremely well. I thought Linden Vey had a good game. The Rookie line of Reid Petryk, Dylan Bredo, S. Mckay I thought had a few outstanding shifts, Keeping P.A in their own end for a good minute straight. Taylor Gal played another solid game. Gal would be my choice for most improved this year.
Thomas Carr had an intense fight with Raider Garret Taylor. Both guys were just chuckin the fists. Thomas Carr landed a few bombs and had Garret Taylor at his mercy when the refs stepped in.
Tough Break For Joey Frazer. Finally scoring a goal on a shot he fanned on, then after a long goal review the refs waved it off.
The refs put their whistles away in the first, and let a lot of stuff go that would have been called normally.
Injury
Zdenik Okal looked to be in a lot of discomfort after getting his wrist stepped on. A long pool of blood trailed to the tigers bench. Hopefully no tendons were cut.
Tritan King was still out with the cold/flu bug. They think he will be ready for Sundays game.
Bretton Cameron is now tied with Cody Eakin for most goals scored in the league. Although the tigers have played 3 more games.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
NHL Happenings
Was an interesting night in the nhl last night.
Derek Dorsett was ran from behind by Dallas Forward James Neal, here is the video. The aftermath looks a little scary as Dorsett falls to his knees then plops over. Lets hope he is ok and their isn't significant damage.
Dorsett tried to goad James Neal into a fight earlier in the game. I thought it was an extremely dirty hit. Slowing down the play it looked like Neal put some extra oomf into it and connected up high almost around the neck area. Dorsett's back was turned and his numbers were clearly visible to Neal the whole way. I think if Dorsett saw the hit coming he wouldn't have been knocked cold, instead he was looking for the puck along the boards and had his head smacked against the glass from behind.
The league has scheduled a phone hearing with James Neal tomorrow Morning. Neal doesn't have a reputation of nasty hits.
Everyone knows that Dorsett is an agitator. It seemed like a case of trying to pay the agitator back, except Dorsett was in a very vulnerable position.
Edit: James Neal received a 2 game suspension.
Scott Niedermayer's causes a fan Brawl.
He tries to throw his stick to a little girl in the audience after being nominated for a 3 star selection, but the fans start throwing punches for the stick.
Derek Dorsett was ran from behind by Dallas Forward James Neal, here is the video. The aftermath looks a little scary as Dorsett falls to his knees then plops over. Lets hope he is ok and their isn't significant damage.
Dorsett tried to goad James Neal into a fight earlier in the game. I thought it was an extremely dirty hit. Slowing down the play it looked like Neal put some extra oomf into it and connected up high almost around the neck area. Dorsett's back was turned and his numbers were clearly visible to Neal the whole way. I think if Dorsett saw the hit coming he wouldn't have been knocked cold, instead he was looking for the puck along the boards and had his head smacked against the glass from behind.
The league has scheduled a phone hearing with James Neal tomorrow Morning. Neal doesn't have a reputation of nasty hits.
Everyone knows that Dorsett is an agitator. It seemed like a case of trying to pay the agitator back, except Dorsett was in a very vulnerable position.
Edit: James Neal received a 2 game suspension.
Scott Niedermayer's causes a fan Brawl.
He tries to throw his stick to a little girl in the audience after being nominated for a 3 star selection, but the fans start throwing punches for the stick.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Late Wednesday
I've been hearing rumors that the tigers have been involved in trade talks with Prince Albert. The Tigers play Prince Albert Friday night at the arena.
Edit: Doubt anything will happen in the immediate future. I think they are just preliminary talks.
Swedish Goal Celebration
I found this on youtube and thought it was pretty funny. I wonder if the celebration will catch on in other leagues..haha.
Edit: Doubt anything will happen in the immediate future. I think they are just preliminary talks.
Swedish Goal Celebration
I found this on youtube and thought it was pretty funny. I wonder if the celebration will catch on in other leagues..haha.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Tigers Defeat Brandon 4-3
I missed half of the game, but here's what I saw.
I thought the tigers played phenomenal on defense tonight. Brandon's last two goals were from good bounces on point shots. Devan Dubyk played pretty well, but might have liked a goal or two back.
Brandon I thought played very physical and were extremely aggressive in all situations. They don't let a team breathe in their own zone, but sometimes the tigers caught their forwards in deep and developed an odd man rush. Brandon also got caught being too aggressive and taking some offensive zone penalties. Their defense looks really tall, and I was impressed by some of their fine line passes out of their zone.
When Brandon had the momentum rolling I noticed a span in the second period where they threw out the Schenn line followed by the Glennie line, and then played the two lines immediately again. Brandon also seemed to do a lot of changing on the fly to get their match ups out. It cost them in the third period when they took a too many men penalty with only 2 minutes left in the game.
The tigers I thought did a very good job at going on the offensive after a Brandon charge up the ice. I was actually a little surprised on how well they held the fort in the third period. Yes they gave up a goal but everytime Brandon went into the tigers zone, the tigers would find a way to not only get the puck out but go up the ice with a chance of their own.
I came into the game thinking Brandon had the superior team by far, but I came away from this game thinking the tigers could compete with them in a 7 game series. Brandon came to play and I thought for the most part the tigers frustrated them.
CSS Preliminary Lists
NHL central scouting mentions two tigers in their preliminary lists.
The CSS lists players by league.
They list Emerson Etem at 4th spot in the whl.
They list Tyler Bunz as the 4th ranked Goalie in the whl.
Full List here: http://www.nhl.com/league/ext/Central%20Scouting/2010/PrelimRankingsDomestic.pdf
John Stampohar on the Move
After managing just three assists in 10 games with the Kamloops Blazers, John Stampohar was reassigned on Tuesday to an American junior hockey league.
http://www.bclocalnews.com/bc_thompson_nicola/kamloopsthisweek/sports/blazers/news/70301887.html
Apparently John was in and out of their lineup lately. I am not surprised by the move. Trying not to be rude but I didn't think he had the hockey smarts or the talent to play at the whl level. He didn't really adapt and learn the tricks of the trade and his potential flattened out.
I thought in the preseason he looked like he had improved, but it was evident he couldn't carry that on against tougher competition in the regular season. IMO if he wants to play pro hockey he has got to take on the tough guy role, learn to make punishing but legal hits, and use his size to his advantage.
SO in hindsight the trade with kamloops was kinda even, as both players left their new teams.
I thought the tigers played phenomenal on defense tonight. Brandon's last two goals were from good bounces on point shots. Devan Dubyk played pretty well, but might have liked a goal or two back.
Brandon I thought played very physical and were extremely aggressive in all situations. They don't let a team breathe in their own zone, but sometimes the tigers caught their forwards in deep and developed an odd man rush. Brandon also got caught being too aggressive and taking some offensive zone penalties. Their defense looks really tall, and I was impressed by some of their fine line passes out of their zone.
When Brandon had the momentum rolling I noticed a span in the second period where they threw out the Schenn line followed by the Glennie line, and then played the two lines immediately again. Brandon also seemed to do a lot of changing on the fly to get their match ups out. It cost them in the third period when they took a too many men penalty with only 2 minutes left in the game.
The tigers I thought did a very good job at going on the offensive after a Brandon charge up the ice. I was actually a little surprised on how well they held the fort in the third period. Yes they gave up a goal but everytime Brandon went into the tigers zone, the tigers would find a way to not only get the puck out but go up the ice with a chance of their own.
I came into the game thinking Brandon had the superior team by far, but I came away from this game thinking the tigers could compete with them in a 7 game series. Brandon came to play and I thought for the most part the tigers frustrated them.
CSS Preliminary Lists
NHL central scouting mentions two tigers in their preliminary lists.
The CSS lists players by league.
They list Emerson Etem at 4th spot in the whl.
They list Tyler Bunz as the 4th ranked Goalie in the whl.
Full List here: http://www.nhl.com/league/ext/Central%20Scouting/2010/PrelimRankingsDomestic.pdf
John Stampohar on the Move
After managing just three assists in 10 games with the Kamloops Blazers, John Stampohar was reassigned on Tuesday to an American junior hockey league.
http://www.bclocalnews.com/bc_thompson_nicola/kamloopsthisweek/sports/blazers/news/70301887.html
Apparently John was in and out of their lineup lately. I am not surprised by the move. Trying not to be rude but I didn't think he had the hockey smarts or the talent to play at the whl level. He didn't really adapt and learn the tricks of the trade and his potential flattened out.
I thought in the preseason he looked like he had improved, but it was evident he couldn't carry that on against tougher competition in the regular season. IMO if he wants to play pro hockey he has got to take on the tough guy role, learn to make punishing but legal hits, and use his size to his advantage.
SO in hindsight the trade with kamloops was kinda even, as both players left their new teams.
Monday, November 16, 2009
ISS Top 30 NHL Prospects
ISS has come out with their November rankings of the top 30 prospects for this years NHL draft. They List Emerson Etem in the 23rd spot.
Click here for the full list: http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/11591/iss_top302010_prospects_november/
NHL.com
-NHL.com has a new article out today on Tyler Ennis and his NHL debut. You can find the article Here: http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=506300
Tyler Bunz
Tyler earns Tiger player of the week honours after posting a 2-0-0-1 record in three starts this past week, including a goals against average of 1.67 and save percentage of .933.
http://www.tigershockey.com/media/media.php?stype=browsei&season=2009&month=Nov&lim1=1
Sean Ringrose
In Lethbridge, AB on Friday, Ringrose, a former Medicine Hat Tiger, notched two goals and four assists while former Prince George Cougar Eric Hunter chipped in two goals and three helpers as the Golden Bears skated to an 8-5 win over the Pronghorns.
http://www.whl.ca/canada-west-update-p138851
Willie Desjardin
A little while ago Desjardin got his 300th whl coaching victory. ON Saturday he got his 300th victory as a Tigers Head Coach.
http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/156266/110/
Click here for the full list: http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/11591/iss_top302010_prospects_november/
NHL.com
-NHL.com has a new article out today on Tyler Ennis and his NHL debut. You can find the article Here: http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=506300
Tyler Bunz
Tyler earns Tiger player of the week honours after posting a 2-0-0-1 record in three starts this past week, including a goals against average of 1.67 and save percentage of .933.
http://www.tigershockey.com/media/media.php?stype=browsei&season=2009&month=Nov&lim1=1
Sean Ringrose
In Lethbridge, AB on Friday, Ringrose, a former Medicine Hat Tiger, notched two goals and four assists while former Prince George Cougar Eric Hunter chipped in two goals and three helpers as the Golden Bears skated to an 8-5 win over the Pronghorns.
http://www.whl.ca/canada-west-update-p138851
Willie Desjardin
A little while ago Desjardin got his 300th whl coaching victory. ON Saturday he got his 300th victory as a Tigers Head Coach.
http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/156266/110/
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Tigers Defeat Lethbridge 4-2
First I wanna say it was a good night for Former Tigers as 5 of them scored NHL goals including: Tyler Ennis, David Schlemko, Darren Helm, and Joffrey Lupul, Jay Bouwmeester.
Tyler's goal was on a 180 spin shot that beat Ray Emery up high. Schlemko joined in the rush and fired a low shot that beat Marty Turco. Darren Helm was skating down the side and fired a bullet top corner that trickled in past Jonas Hiller.
You can see all the goals on the nhl website, as they show game highlights of every game free. Just click on the video link on thier respective games
http://www.nhl.com/scores/index.html#?navid=nav-scr-main
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Thoughts
Tonight I thought the tigers played a solid game. Lethbridge's Ville Kolppanen made quite a few high quality glove saves, and he was named the games third star. It could have very well have been a 6-2 game.
I am very much in favor of seeing the Isherwood and Coyle pairing split up. The tigers team seems to be making strong headway on playing better in their own end.
They made a couple dangerous mistakes but lethbridge wasn't able to capitalize on them.
They've only let in 1,3, and 2 goals respectively in their last 3 games which is a pretty big improvement. Especially considering the type of talent they played against. Their not last in goals against anymore.
Lethbridge's Luca Sbisa really looks like a man among boys. He was throwing players like Bretton Cameron, and Tomas Kundratek( 2 of the stronger players) to the ice without looking like he was using much effort.
I didn't particularly like the reffing tonight. It wasn't horrendous but they were calling awkward stuff and probably could have let a couple accidental trips go. I was also a little stunned how Thomas Carr was the only one with a penalty after Ashton Carter came in and started mixing things up, and tripped up Tyler Bunz.
--
Player Thoughts
I thought Emerson Etem has been playing harder the last 2 games.I thought he threw more hits, and played in more of the dirty areas tonight. I would like to see him do more of that stuff, learn how to win battles in the corners. I also thought Joey Frazer was playing better tonight. I don't particularly like his game but he played good tonight.
Zdenek Okal needs to step up his game, and stop worrying about after the whistle jostling. I thought his play hasn't been that great throughout November.
Tyler's goal was on a 180 spin shot that beat Ray Emery up high. Schlemko joined in the rush and fired a low shot that beat Marty Turco. Darren Helm was skating down the side and fired a bullet top corner that trickled in past Jonas Hiller.
You can see all the goals on the nhl website, as they show game highlights of every game free. Just click on the video link on thier respective games
http://www.nhl.com/scores/index.html#?navid=nav-scr-main
----------
Thoughts
Tonight I thought the tigers played a solid game. Lethbridge's Ville Kolppanen made quite a few high quality glove saves, and he was named the games third star. It could have very well have been a 6-2 game.
I am very much in favor of seeing the Isherwood and Coyle pairing split up. The tigers team seems to be making strong headway on playing better in their own end.
They made a couple dangerous mistakes but lethbridge wasn't able to capitalize on them.
They've only let in 1,3, and 2 goals respectively in their last 3 games which is a pretty big improvement. Especially considering the type of talent they played against. Their not last in goals against anymore.
Lethbridge's Luca Sbisa really looks like a man among boys. He was throwing players like Bretton Cameron, and Tomas Kundratek( 2 of the stronger players) to the ice without looking like he was using much effort.
I didn't particularly like the reffing tonight. It wasn't horrendous but they were calling awkward stuff and probably could have let a couple accidental trips go. I was also a little stunned how Thomas Carr was the only one with a penalty after Ashton Carter came in and started mixing things up, and tripped up Tyler Bunz.
--
Player Thoughts
I thought Emerson Etem has been playing harder the last 2 games.I thought he threw more hits, and played in more of the dirty areas tonight. I would like to see him do more of that stuff, learn how to win battles in the corners. I also thought Joey Frazer was playing better tonight. I don't particularly like his game but he played good tonight.
Zdenek Okal needs to step up his game, and stop worrying about after the whistle jostling. I thought his play hasn't been that great throughout November.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Hitmen Defeat Tigers 3-2 SO
IT was a fast paced and very entertaining hockey game. Both sides came to play tonight.The tigers started out slow but they got back on track in the second period.
The tigers look like they had worked on their defensive positioning in their own zone, and they looked a hundred times better tonight.
The Hitmen would start out the game strong, they controlled the play for the first 8 minutes of the hockey game. I believe Calgary scored on their first shot of the hockey game as Tyler Fiddler rifled a shot past Bunz after cruising into the high slot area. It was a good hard well placed, low shot with a screen in front.
The tigers would tie up the game in the second period on a powerplay. Mark Isherwood launched 4 rockets from the point, but it was the fifth one that would squeak through Martin Jones. There was no real screen in front it just beat Jones cleanly about pad height off the ice.
The Hitmen would go up with 0.2 seconds left on the clock at the end of the second period. Their was a 3 on 3 scramble behind the tigers net for puck possession. Bretton Cameron would leave his post in front of the net in anticipation of the puck coming out the other side. However at that exact moment Hitmen Chase Schaber would dig the puck out and flip it in front to a pinching Micheal Stone. He scored so close to the buzzer they would go upstairs and review it. The goal stood and the hitmen escaped with a 2-1 lead after a very intense second period.
In the third period Hitman Kris Focault would take his 3rd minor penalty of the game. Tomas kundratek would flick the puck towards the net, and Tristan King would make a deflection. It was a fairly slow shot, and Martin Jones reacted quickly sticking out the right pad. However Emerson Etem was Johnny on the spot, and he immediately fired home the rebound.
That little tip by Tristan King made the rebound possible, and the score would stay tied 2-2 after regulation play.
In overtime the Tigers were awarded a 4on3 powerplay after some fancy stickhandling by Linden Vey that would cause Erik Bonsor to trip him up. It looked like Coyle and Isherwood were sorta competing for the right to shoot, and they both looked like they were trying to let one fly as soon as they got possession. Martin Jones would make a few saves from longer shots as the tigers were unable to score on the advantage.
The game would head to a Shootout, with the tigers up first.
1st Shooter Mark Isherwood - He shot towards the five-hole area that Jones stopped easily. 0-0
2nd Shooter - Kris Focault- He would make up for his 3 penalties in the game by putting a move on that Froze Bunz in place, and allowed him to score easily putting a puck past a spinning Bunz.
1-0 Hitmen
3rd shooter Matt MacKay - Would try the move where he fakes to the right, and goes left, but Jones read Him like a glove.
1-0 Hitmen
4th shooter Brandon Kozun - Would try the Pavel Datsyuk move, with a slight fake to go right, then pull the puck back and hope the goalie bit. However Bunz stayed right with him, and it would officially snap Kozun's 16 game point streak. 1-0 Hitmen
5th Shooter - Tristan King - cant remember this one but it Looked like Jones stopped him easily as well.
and The Hitmen will take the 2 points. The tigers played a heck of a road game. They only made 1 bad mistake and played a pretty phenomenal defensive hockey game considering their past games.
The tigers look like they had worked on their defensive positioning in their own zone, and they looked a hundred times better tonight.
The Hitmen would start out the game strong, they controlled the play for the first 8 minutes of the hockey game. I believe Calgary scored on their first shot of the hockey game as Tyler Fiddler rifled a shot past Bunz after cruising into the high slot area. It was a good hard well placed, low shot with a screen in front.
The tigers would tie up the game in the second period on a powerplay. Mark Isherwood launched 4 rockets from the point, but it was the fifth one that would squeak through Martin Jones. There was no real screen in front it just beat Jones cleanly about pad height off the ice.
The Hitmen would go up with 0.2 seconds left on the clock at the end of the second period. Their was a 3 on 3 scramble behind the tigers net for puck possession. Bretton Cameron would leave his post in front of the net in anticipation of the puck coming out the other side. However at that exact moment Hitmen Chase Schaber would dig the puck out and flip it in front to a pinching Micheal Stone. He scored so close to the buzzer they would go upstairs and review it. The goal stood and the hitmen escaped with a 2-1 lead after a very intense second period.
In the third period Hitman Kris Focault would take his 3rd minor penalty of the game. Tomas kundratek would flick the puck towards the net, and Tristan King would make a deflection. It was a fairly slow shot, and Martin Jones reacted quickly sticking out the right pad. However Emerson Etem was Johnny on the spot, and he immediately fired home the rebound.
That little tip by Tristan King made the rebound possible, and the score would stay tied 2-2 after regulation play.
In overtime the Tigers were awarded a 4on3 powerplay after some fancy stickhandling by Linden Vey that would cause Erik Bonsor to trip him up. It looked like Coyle and Isherwood were sorta competing for the right to shoot, and they both looked like they were trying to let one fly as soon as they got possession. Martin Jones would make a few saves from longer shots as the tigers were unable to score on the advantage.
The game would head to a Shootout, with the tigers up first.
1st Shooter Mark Isherwood - He shot towards the five-hole area that Jones stopped easily. 0-0
2nd Shooter - Kris Focault- He would make up for his 3 penalties in the game by putting a move on that Froze Bunz in place, and allowed him to score easily putting a puck past a spinning Bunz.
1-0 Hitmen
3rd shooter Matt MacKay - Would try the move where he fakes to the right, and goes left, but Jones read Him like a glove.
1-0 Hitmen
4th shooter Brandon Kozun - Would try the Pavel Datsyuk move, with a slight fake to go right, then pull the puck back and hope the goalie bit. However Bunz stayed right with him, and it would officially snap Kozun's 16 game point streak. 1-0 Hitmen
5th Shooter - Tristan King - cant remember this one but it Looked like Jones stopped him easily as well.
and The Hitmen will take the 2 points. The tigers played a heck of a road game. They only made 1 bad mistake and played a pretty phenomenal defensive hockey game considering their past games.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Tigers Defeat Tri-City 6-1
Tri-City had an .833 winning percentage prior to tonights game, tops in the league. They are also ranked #3 in the chl, and right near the top of the league in lowest goals scored against.
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I had to miss tonights game so no recap.From the sounds of things the tigers smelled blood in the third period and pounced.
Link To the MH News Article: http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/155073/110/
I Just got over the flubug and then caught a cold. These are also the reasons why this blog has been pretty quiet this week.
Cole Penner
Cole Penner Was traded yesterday and it so ends his rocky relationship with the Prince Albert Raiders. Chilliwack Bruins gave up a 12th round draft pick for him.
A good majority of teams start passing on picks after the 10th round.
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I had to miss tonights game so no recap.From the sounds of things the tigers smelled blood in the third period and pounced.
Link To the MH News Article: http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/155073/110/
I Just got over the flubug and then caught a cold. These are also the reasons why this blog has been pretty quiet this week.
Cole Penner
Cole Penner Was traded yesterday and it so ends his rocky relationship with the Prince Albert Raiders. Chilliwack Bruins gave up a 12th round draft pick for him.
A good majority of teams start passing on picks after the 10th round.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Wheaties Shred Tigers 5-1
Devan Dubyk and Tyler Bunz
Devan Dubyk would get the start tonight. Tyler Bunz replaced him in the second period. Dubyk was ran over in the first period by a Wheat King player, and could have been a factor on why he was replaced.
Matt Konan was trying to hold on to the wheat king forward when they ran out of room and the forward ran right over Dubyk, while Konan did a little spin out of the way. I was a little disappointed that Matt Konan received the only penalty.
While Konan deserved a holding call, I thought the wheat king player should have been penalized, as he didn't appear to try and hold up. Dubyk stayed in the game for the rest of the period, but looked quite shaken as he was barrel rolled over, and took some time to recover.
Thoughts
I thought Tonight the Wheat Kings just exposed the tigers so-so attitude on the road and their weak defensive systems when they play that way. There were quite a few times where 3 tigers were on the same side of the ice, taking on only 2 wheat king players, leaving a good chunk of the ice open.
The Wheat Kings did a phenomenal job on defense for most of the game as the tigers offensive opportunities were limited. Jace Coyle was the only Tiger with a goal as he wristed a floater on net, and the Wheat King goalie was a little out of position on the PP. The only tigers I liked tonight were Dylan Businius,Tyler Bunz, and Reid Petryk, although that is going with a low quality type webcast picture.
The Wheat Kings showed they were the superior team by far tonight.
Fight Wacey Hamilton vs Brodie Melanychuk
The fight would happen after Brodie would cream Taylor Gal from behind. Gal was using his body to shield the puck along the boards and the Wheat King player made hard enough contact to knock him over. One of those plays where you gotta judge on how much force to use as overdoing it will result in a penalty.
Wacey Hamilton would fly over, and start throwing punches. Hamilton looked like he landed a very weak jab off the start, and then Melanychuck would put Hamilton in a headlock for about 8 seconds. The camera angle was poor and you couldn't tell if Melanychuck threw anything in the headlock. Wacey Would Wiggle free of the headlock and push him over the top which would end the fight.
Decision: Draw as nothing really landed. Wacey would receive 2 for instigating, 5 for fighting, and a ten minute misconduct.
Brandons webcast quality was kinda poor, not very good picture.
Devan Dubyk would get the start tonight. Tyler Bunz replaced him in the second period. Dubyk was ran over in the first period by a Wheat King player, and could have been a factor on why he was replaced.
Matt Konan was trying to hold on to the wheat king forward when they ran out of room and the forward ran right over Dubyk, while Konan did a little spin out of the way. I was a little disappointed that Matt Konan received the only penalty.
While Konan deserved a holding call, I thought the wheat king player should have been penalized, as he didn't appear to try and hold up. Dubyk stayed in the game for the rest of the period, but looked quite shaken as he was barrel rolled over, and took some time to recover.
Thoughts
I thought Tonight the Wheat Kings just exposed the tigers so-so attitude on the road and their weak defensive systems when they play that way. There were quite a few times where 3 tigers were on the same side of the ice, taking on only 2 wheat king players, leaving a good chunk of the ice open.
The Wheat Kings did a phenomenal job on defense for most of the game as the tigers offensive opportunities were limited. Jace Coyle was the only Tiger with a goal as he wristed a floater on net, and the Wheat King goalie was a little out of position on the PP. The only tigers I liked tonight were Dylan Businius,Tyler Bunz, and Reid Petryk, although that is going with a low quality type webcast picture.
The Wheat Kings showed they were the superior team by far tonight.
Fight Wacey Hamilton vs Brodie Melanychuk
The fight would happen after Brodie would cream Taylor Gal from behind. Gal was using his body to shield the puck along the boards and the Wheat King player made hard enough contact to knock him over. One of those plays where you gotta judge on how much force to use as overdoing it will result in a penalty.
Wacey Hamilton would fly over, and start throwing punches. Hamilton looked like he landed a very weak jab off the start, and then Melanychuck would put Hamilton in a headlock for about 8 seconds. The camera angle was poor and you couldn't tell if Melanychuck threw anything in the headlock. Wacey Would Wiggle free of the headlock and push him over the top which would end the fight.
Decision: Draw as nothing really landed. Wacey would receive 2 for instigating, 5 for fighting, and a ten minute misconduct.
Brandons webcast quality was kinda poor, not very good picture.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Tigers Defeat Moose Jaw 3-2
PreGame:
Petryk and Busenius both listed on the game sheet. It is Matt Mackay's and Devan Dubyk's first games against their former teams. Dubyk is dressed in goal for tonight.
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Tigers open up the game strong but they seem to have a case of stone hands tonight. Lots of pucks in good scoring areas but failing to get good wood on the shots.
Tomas Kundratek absolutely hammered Travis Harmonic on a nice open ice hit, harmonic missed a shift or two but he has returned to the game.
Warrior Goal PP
1-0 Stanton, (4) (Rowinski, Harmonic), 10:34 (PP)
The tigers take two penalties 20 seconds apart. Moose Jaw would work the puck up high, the tigers keep in a triangle formation. The puck goes over to the left side, a tigers follows but trips and it leaves the center of the ice open.
Rowinski would feed Ryan Stanton a pass and he would let go a howitzer in the upper slot area that just trickles in past Dubyk.
Warrior Goal
2-0 Bast, (17) (Howden, Frazee), 17:10
The warriors would get a 3 on 2. Thomas Frazee skates down the left side waits and waits, then as soon as Tomas Carr moved his stick over to face Frazee he passes over to Quinton Howden skating down the middle of the ice who would let loose a rocket . Devan Dubyk came over to make the save, but the puck is loose. Jason Bast would come in and knock it in.
Fight Taylor Gal vs Kevin Smith
Gal would follow threw on a hit that was from clearly from behind. Smith look dazed for a second not knowing what happened, looked at the ref, then charged Gal. IT was pretty much a wrestling match with Gal getting the takedown. Smith would get 2 , 5 and 10 minute misconduct evening out the initial 2 minute penalty to Gal
End Of Period.
I thought the tigers were fighting the puck a little, they threw a couple good hits and their is a good deal of jostling after the whistle. Again a bad start on the road, but the offense got their chances, stuff like Cameron losing the puck in the slot, and Matt MacKay not getting good wood on a 2on0 hasn't helped.
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2nd Period
Tiger Goooooaaaaaaal! PP
2-1 Etem, (16) (King, Kundratek), 4:36 (PP)
On the powerplay two warriors players would get caught out of position. Kundratek makes a nice cross ice pass To Tristan King, who then makes another cross ice Pass TO Emerson Etem at the side of the net, and he roofs it with the goalie out of position.
Tiger Goooooaaaaaaal! PP
Gal, (8) (Isherwood, Hamilton), 7:26 (PP)
A controversial call but the tigers will take it. A warrior makes a nice hit on Bretton Cameron, but gets penalized for it.
The puck would come out to Isherwood at the point who has a clear shooting lane. He wires a shot, and It looks like Taylor Gal was credited with the tip.
End Of Second
This period was a very good period for the Tigers. I thought the Tigers controlled the play, and had some help from the refs. I don't really like the calls being made, and the warrior fans are pretty irate with the officials. Should be in for a beauty of a third period, the game is up for grabs. I can definitely see the ref looking to call something against the tigers.
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Third Period.
Tigers Gooooooooooaaaaaal!
3-2 Vey, (9)
Just as the tigers penalty was expiring Linden Vey takes the puck up the ice by himself. It was pretty much a 1on 3. The Warriors Goalie Brandon Glover was playing way over on the short side, leaving the right half of the net open. Linden Vey took a look thought for a moment, then fired a bullet into the open side.
End Game
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Tigers WIN!!
A very good road win. Devan Dubyk made a game saving save early in the third period which at the time preserved a 2-2 game. I thought the warriors shot themselves in the foot with all the penalties they took. They were a few bad calls by the ref in the second but I thought most of them were warranted in the third period.
A great start to the weekend. Tomorrow the tigers get to try and avenge their 2nd round playoff exit as they faceoff against the Brandon Wheat Kings. From what I understand Brandon's Weakness so far has been goaltending and their 3rd and 4th lines.
I really liked listening to the warriors broadcaster and their color guy they were very knowledgeable and fun to listen to. I thought the quality of Moose Jaw's webcast was pretty bad, the picture was horrible.
Thoughts on Dubyk
Dubyk is really solid positionally, however he lets out rebounds on any shot that is down low. I think he needs to work on his rebound control a bit. I thought he played really well tonight.
Petryk and Busenius both listed on the game sheet. It is Matt Mackay's and Devan Dubyk's first games against their former teams. Dubyk is dressed in goal for tonight.
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Tigers open up the game strong but they seem to have a case of stone hands tonight. Lots of pucks in good scoring areas but failing to get good wood on the shots.
Tomas Kundratek absolutely hammered Travis Harmonic on a nice open ice hit, harmonic missed a shift or two but he has returned to the game.
Warrior Goal PP
1-0 Stanton, (4) (Rowinski, Harmonic), 10:34 (PP)
The tigers take two penalties 20 seconds apart. Moose Jaw would work the puck up high, the tigers keep in a triangle formation. The puck goes over to the left side, a tigers follows but trips and it leaves the center of the ice open.
Rowinski would feed Ryan Stanton a pass and he would let go a howitzer in the upper slot area that just trickles in past Dubyk.
Warrior Goal
2-0 Bast, (17) (Howden, Frazee), 17:10
The warriors would get a 3 on 2. Thomas Frazee skates down the left side waits and waits, then as soon as Tomas Carr moved his stick over to face Frazee he passes over to Quinton Howden skating down the middle of the ice who would let loose a rocket . Devan Dubyk came over to make the save, but the puck is loose. Jason Bast would come in and knock it in.
Fight Taylor Gal vs Kevin Smith
Gal would follow threw on a hit that was from clearly from behind. Smith look dazed for a second not knowing what happened, looked at the ref, then charged Gal. IT was pretty much a wrestling match with Gal getting the takedown. Smith would get 2 , 5 and 10 minute misconduct evening out the initial 2 minute penalty to Gal
End Of Period.
I thought the tigers were fighting the puck a little, they threw a couple good hits and their is a good deal of jostling after the whistle. Again a bad start on the road, but the offense got their chances, stuff like Cameron losing the puck in the slot, and Matt MacKay not getting good wood on a 2on0 hasn't helped.
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2nd Period
Tiger Goooooaaaaaaal! PP
2-1 Etem, (16) (King, Kundratek), 4:36 (PP)
On the powerplay two warriors players would get caught out of position. Kundratek makes a nice cross ice pass To Tristan King, who then makes another cross ice Pass TO Emerson Etem at the side of the net, and he roofs it with the goalie out of position.
Tiger Goooooaaaaaaal! PP
Gal, (8) (Isherwood, Hamilton), 7:26 (PP)
A controversial call but the tigers will take it. A warrior makes a nice hit on Bretton Cameron, but gets penalized for it.
The puck would come out to Isherwood at the point who has a clear shooting lane. He wires a shot, and It looks like Taylor Gal was credited with the tip.
End Of Second
This period was a very good period for the Tigers. I thought the Tigers controlled the play, and had some help from the refs. I don't really like the calls being made, and the warrior fans are pretty irate with the officials. Should be in for a beauty of a third period, the game is up for grabs. I can definitely see the ref looking to call something against the tigers.
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Third Period.
Tigers Gooooooooooaaaaaal!
3-2 Vey, (9)
Just as the tigers penalty was expiring Linden Vey takes the puck up the ice by himself. It was pretty much a 1on 3. The Warriors Goalie Brandon Glover was playing way over on the short side, leaving the right half of the net open. Linden Vey took a look thought for a moment, then fired a bullet into the open side.
End Game
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Tigers WIN!!
A very good road win. Devan Dubyk made a game saving save early in the third period which at the time preserved a 2-2 game. I thought the warriors shot themselves in the foot with all the penalties they took. They were a few bad calls by the ref in the second but I thought most of them were warranted in the third period.
A great start to the weekend. Tomorrow the tigers get to try and avenge their 2nd round playoff exit as they faceoff against the Brandon Wheat Kings. From what I understand Brandon's Weakness so far has been goaltending and their 3rd and 4th lines.
I really liked listening to the warriors broadcaster and their color guy they were very knowledgeable and fun to listen to. I thought the quality of Moose Jaw's webcast was pretty bad, the picture was horrible.
Thoughts on Dubyk
Dubyk is really solid positionally, however he lets out rebounds on any shot that is down low. I think he needs to work on his rebound control a bit. I thought he played really well tonight.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Pats Blowout Tigers 7-4
I missed the first half of the game......
Well it wasn't necessarily a blowout, the tigers played fairly well from what I saw but the Pats opened up the game late with a few momentum killing goals that Tyler Bunz would have liked to get back.
Turning Point(s)
Just after the Tigers tied the game at 3-3,Right off the faceoff Regina's Brett Lefler is on a 1 on 2 by himself. He skates into the zone and fires a wrist shot on net which beats Bunz, a shot that Bunz probably should have stopped. **It should be noted that the tigers D were also backed up pretty good and Leffler used the Defender as a partial screen.
The tigers manage to tie up the game 27 seconds into the third period. The tigers continue with lots of pressure on the PP after Tuebert threw the puck over the glass.
The tigers are all over the pats hemming them into their end for the first 4 minutes of the third putting on all kinds of pressure. Just as the penalty expires the pats get a rush up the ice. Brett Leffler again decides to shoot from high in the tigers zone, and once again the shot Beats Tyler Bunz, a shot he should have stopped.
Willie Desjardin would pull Bunz immediately after In favor Of Devan Dubyk.
Regina would further deflate any chance at a comeback scoring the insurance goal on the PP as Jordan Eberle would fire a bad angle shot on net that would beat Devan Dubyk, another suspect goal.
From there it was pretty much game over. The tigers had lots of chances to score to go ahead, they looked to have the momentum and creating chances, but it was Brett Leffler fooling Bunz twice which would deflate the tigers team.
Regina would score a 7th time on a partial break. Coyle made a nice play to break up a breakaway attempt, but their wasn't enough bodies down low to cover the rebound pass to a Regina Player coming in late.
Cody Carlson scored his first goal as a pat against the Tigers.
3 stars.
1. REG - 7 Jordan Eberle
2. REG - 19 Jordan Weal
3. M.H - 15 Linden Vey
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Goaltending
Don't be so quick to jump on Goaltending as the problem.
I think Bunz has improved quite a bit already.
While he didn't play that well tonight, I thought Bunz has shown very good mobility, and reflexes as a 17 year old. Its obvious though that he is still adapting to being the everyday goaltender.
Half the battle for a goaltender is the mental focus required to play the position. Its games like tonight that they have to learn to shake off and be prepared to work harder the next game.
The tigers haven't been helping their goalies out either with blown coverages galore early in the season, although their getting better.
He is still learning and I think this experience he is getting now will be extremely beneficial later on.
Well it wasn't necessarily a blowout, the tigers played fairly well from what I saw but the Pats opened up the game late with a few momentum killing goals that Tyler Bunz would have liked to get back.
Turning Point(s)
Just after the Tigers tied the game at 3-3,Right off the faceoff Regina's Brett Lefler is on a 1 on 2 by himself. He skates into the zone and fires a wrist shot on net which beats Bunz, a shot that Bunz probably should have stopped. **It should be noted that the tigers D were also backed up pretty good and Leffler used the Defender as a partial screen.
The tigers manage to tie up the game 27 seconds into the third period. The tigers continue with lots of pressure on the PP after Tuebert threw the puck over the glass.
The tigers are all over the pats hemming them into their end for the first 4 minutes of the third putting on all kinds of pressure. Just as the penalty expires the pats get a rush up the ice. Brett Leffler again decides to shoot from high in the tigers zone, and once again the shot Beats Tyler Bunz, a shot he should have stopped.
Willie Desjardin would pull Bunz immediately after In favor Of Devan Dubyk.
Regina would further deflate any chance at a comeback scoring the insurance goal on the PP as Jordan Eberle would fire a bad angle shot on net that would beat Devan Dubyk, another suspect goal.
From there it was pretty much game over. The tigers had lots of chances to score to go ahead, they looked to have the momentum and creating chances, but it was Brett Leffler fooling Bunz twice which would deflate the tigers team.
Regina would score a 7th time on a partial break. Coyle made a nice play to break up a breakaway attempt, but their wasn't enough bodies down low to cover the rebound pass to a Regina Player coming in late.
Cody Carlson scored his first goal as a pat against the Tigers.
3 stars.
1. REG - 7 Jordan Eberle
2. REG - 19 Jordan Weal
3. M.H - 15 Linden Vey
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Goaltending
Don't be so quick to jump on Goaltending as the problem.
I think Bunz has improved quite a bit already.
While he didn't play that well tonight, I thought Bunz has shown very good mobility, and reflexes as a 17 year old. Its obvious though that he is still adapting to being the everyday goaltender.
Half the battle for a goaltender is the mental focus required to play the position. Its games like tonight that they have to learn to shake off and be prepared to work harder the next game.
The tigers haven't been helping their goalies out either with blown coverages galore early in the season, although their getting better.
He is still learning and I think this experience he is getting now will be extremely beneficial later on.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Tigers loose to Silvertips 3-1
Keeping It Short..
I thought the Tigers ran into a team that was very well coached, and Everett had all their players buying into their systems. They played a phenomenal Road Game. Thomas Heemskerk improved on his remarkable .926 save percentage. A couple lucky bounces and the tigers could have won the game, as they did manage quite a few close calls.
The Silvertips ran into the leagues highest scoring team(Tigers) and they frustrated them left, right, and center. It was like playing a team full of Colton Grant's. Everett had sticks in the way, and really made the tigers work for each inch of ice.
When Everett scored their 2nd Goal I could see Willie Desjardin having a talk With Zdenek Okal as he made two poor decisions ( 1 was a miscommunication with the defense in throwing the puck to nobody behind the net, the 2nd was not coming back to help out the defense, as their was a man open in front who eventually scored the game winner.
Curtis Valk was called up to play as Dylan Businius, and Reid Petryk are day-to-day, and Kale Kessey sat out for his one game suspension.
I thought the Tigers ran into a team that was very well coached, and Everett had all their players buying into their systems. They played a phenomenal Road Game. Thomas Heemskerk improved on his remarkable .926 save percentage. A couple lucky bounces and the tigers could have won the game, as they did manage quite a few close calls.
The Silvertips ran into the leagues highest scoring team(Tigers) and they frustrated them left, right, and center. It was like playing a team full of Colton Grant's. Everett had sticks in the way, and really made the tigers work for each inch of ice.
When Everett scored their 2nd Goal I could see Willie Desjardin having a talk With Zdenek Okal as he made two poor decisions ( 1 was a miscommunication with the defense in throwing the puck to nobody behind the net, the 2nd was not coming back to help out the defense, as their was a man open in front who eventually scored the game winner.
Curtis Valk was called up to play as Dylan Businius, and Reid Petryk are day-to-day, and Kale Kessey sat out for his one game suspension.
Kessey Gets 1 Game Suspension
Kale Kessey received a one game suspension for his hit on a Seattle Thunderbird player last Saturday night.
My initial reaction was that it was one of those borderline hits where he had the guy lined up but the Seattle Player turned at the last second. I didn't get a chance to view the replay, but I remember that Kessey was coming in fast.
Kessey received a 5 minute major for boarding and a game misconduct on the play.
The weekly updates came out today and the tigers have a couple injuries:
#2 Dylan Busenius – Thigh Contusion – day to day
#17 Reid Petryk – Bruised Ribs – day to day
Tigers face off against the Everett Silvertips Tonight.
My initial reaction was that it was one of those borderline hits where he had the guy lined up but the Seattle Player turned at the last second. I didn't get a chance to view the replay, but I remember that Kessey was coming in fast.
Kessey received a 5 minute major for boarding and a game misconduct on the play.
The weekly updates came out today and the tigers have a couple injuries:
#2 Dylan Busenius – Thigh Contusion – day to day
#17 Reid Petryk – Bruised Ribs – day to day
Tigers face off against the Everett Silvertips Tonight.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Tigers Defeat Seattle 11-2
Attendance looked really low tonight. Probably more to do with it being Halloween and all.
The Tigers played way more physical than they have been playing on the road. Hopefully next weekend when they go through Saskatchewan they can maintain that physicality.
I was pleased that the Tigers gave more Ice time To Tanner Sohn and he looked good out there.
Three Tigers had hat tricks tonight including Emerson Etem, Bretton Cameron, and Matt MacKay. Mark Isherwood and Jayce Coyle were +6 on the night. That is with their 4th line receiving ample playing time in the third period.
Looking at the stats sheet the tigers lead the league in goals scored, and their 1 goal behind Kamloops for most goals scored against.
5 of the last 6 games have been blowouts.
The games where the tigers have been blown out is on the road.
The games where they have turned up the heat has been at home.
I was a little shocked that Seattle's Head Coach didn't change his goalie, leaving him in for all 11 goals.
Edit: I heard from a couple T-birds fans that quite a few players have been hit with the flu bug. I guess Calvin Pickard was injured so thats why they kept their starter in for the whole game.
Link To MH News Article: http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/151396/110/
"The regulars that were missing from the Seattle lineup due to the flu included Scott Ramsay, Steve Chaffin, Prab Rai, Sena Acolatse and Chance Lund. Thunderbirds head coach Rob Sumner also said team captain Lindsay Nielsen played while under the weather, as did Stefan Warg, Tyler Alos and Luke Lockhart. Zachary Walker and Connor Sanvido, two 16-year-olds, were called up from the midget AAA ranks to help Seattle ice a full lineup."
The Tigers played way more physical than they have been playing on the road. Hopefully next weekend when they go through Saskatchewan they can maintain that physicality.
I was pleased that the Tigers gave more Ice time To Tanner Sohn and he looked good out there.
Three Tigers had hat tricks tonight including Emerson Etem, Bretton Cameron, and Matt MacKay. Mark Isherwood and Jayce Coyle were +6 on the night. That is with their 4th line receiving ample playing time in the third period.
Looking at the stats sheet the tigers lead the league in goals scored, and their 1 goal behind Kamloops for most goals scored against.
5 of the last 6 games have been blowouts.
The games where the tigers have been blown out is on the road.
The games where they have turned up the heat has been at home.
I was a little shocked that Seattle's Head Coach didn't change his goalie, leaving him in for all 11 goals.
Edit: I heard from a couple T-birds fans that quite a few players have been hit with the flu bug. I guess Calvin Pickard was injured so thats why they kept their starter in for the whole game.
Link To MH News Article: http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/151396/110/
"The regulars that were missing from the Seattle lineup due to the flu included Scott Ramsay, Steve Chaffin, Prab Rai, Sena Acolatse and Chance Lund. Thunderbirds head coach Rob Sumner also said team captain Lindsay Nielsen played while under the weather, as did Stefan Warg, Tyler Alos and Luke Lockhart. Zachary Walker and Connor Sanvido, two 16-year-olds, were called up from the midget AAA ranks to help Seattle ice a full lineup."
Friday, October 30, 2009
Rebels Power Past Tigers 4-2
Pre-Game:
Wacey Hamilton dressed tonight
Red Deers Landon Ferarro dressed for the first time in 10 games with a knee injury
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1st Period
Rebels Goal
1-0 Cowen, (4) (Green, Coetzee), ,
Little joey frazer couldn't contain his man in the corner and the rebels got a path to the net. Frazer was just able to just knock the puck off his stick, while the two tigers defenseman battled their guys in front of the net
I don't know how but Bunz looked like he was knocked down in the process, and then Josh Cowen picked up the loose puck skated past a slash from joey frazer and scored in the top of the net while Bunz was laying down.
Rebels Goal
2-0 Cowen, (4) (Coetzee, Morin),
Cullin Morin shot the puck from the point, and the puck was tipped not once but twice.
End OF first
A very fast paced first period. I thought the tigers were playing pretty good in their defensive zone despite being outscored by 2 goals. They were only beat once to the net and they didn't give up any odd man rushes. I think that "flu" and "lower body injury" suffered by Wacey Hamilton is actually a shoulder injury, just a guess. Wacey Hamilton also received a 10 minute misconduct at the end of the first period.
------------------------------------
2nd Period
Rebels Goal
3-0 Green, (7) (Kudrna, Ferraro),
Tomas Kundratek and Thomas Carr get caught flat footed as the puck is chipped by Kundratek along the boards and Andej Kudma gets a breakaway. Tyler Bunz makes a very good first stop, however Nathan Green is able to shoot in the rebound.
Rebels Goal
4-0 Coetzee, (9) (Nugent-Hopkins, Green)(PP),
Linden vey was dragged over trying to block a shot which left the center of the ice wide open. Nugent Hopkins passes over to Willie Coetzee who absolutely rifles one from the point. Powerplay Goal.
Tigers Goal
4-1 Gal, (5)
Taylor Gal blocks a pass along the blueline short handed and is sent in on a breakaway. Nathan Green just manages to catch him at the last second and trips him up. Gal is still able to get a shot off as he is falling. The goalie stops the shot but the puck is knocked into the net as Gal, and Nathan Green crash into him.
End OF Second
Well I thought the tigers let off the gas pedal a little bit compared to teh first period. You could see the frustration in their play as they are doing a bit of pushing and shoving after the whistle.
I'm not seeing very many checks being finished and the rebels look like they have built a lot of confidence in their play.
--------------------------------------
Third Period
Tiger Goal
4-2 King, (8) (Cameron, Kundratek),
Just as the Tigers PP was expiring, Off the Wing I thought it was Emerson Etem who shot the puck and Rebels Goalie Darcy Kuemper knocked it away with his blocker, However the puck went off the glass behind him and right back out in front. Tristan King skated in and put it home.
End Game
Final Score 4-2 Rebels.
Well the tigers played better in the third but I really thought the rebels let off the gas pedal. The refs were pretty favorable to the tigers and they got a few PP opportunities. The tigers managed quite a few high quality scoring chances and Darcy Kuemper stood on his head and turned most of them away.
A very disappointing road trip going 0-3, But that last period was a step in the right direction.
The tigers take on the struggling Seattle Thunderbirds Tomorrow night at the Arena.
Wacey Hamilton dressed tonight
Red Deers Landon Ferarro dressed for the first time in 10 games with a knee injury
--------------------------------------------------
1st Period
Rebels Goal
1-0 Cowen, (4) (Green, Coetzee), ,
Little joey frazer couldn't contain his man in the corner and the rebels got a path to the net. Frazer was just able to just knock the puck off his stick, while the two tigers defenseman battled their guys in front of the net
I don't know how but Bunz looked like he was knocked down in the process, and then Josh Cowen picked up the loose puck skated past a slash from joey frazer and scored in the top of the net while Bunz was laying down.
Rebels Goal
2-0 Cowen, (4) (Coetzee, Morin),
Cullin Morin shot the puck from the point, and the puck was tipped not once but twice.
End OF first
A very fast paced first period. I thought the tigers were playing pretty good in their defensive zone despite being outscored by 2 goals. They were only beat once to the net and they didn't give up any odd man rushes. I think that "flu" and "lower body injury" suffered by Wacey Hamilton is actually a shoulder injury, just a guess. Wacey Hamilton also received a 10 minute misconduct at the end of the first period.
------------------------------------
2nd Period
Rebels Goal
3-0 Green, (7) (Kudrna, Ferraro),
Tomas Kundratek and Thomas Carr get caught flat footed as the puck is chipped by Kundratek along the boards and Andej Kudma gets a breakaway. Tyler Bunz makes a very good first stop, however Nathan Green is able to shoot in the rebound.
Rebels Goal
4-0 Coetzee, (9) (Nugent-Hopkins, Green)(PP),
Linden vey was dragged over trying to block a shot which left the center of the ice wide open. Nugent Hopkins passes over to Willie Coetzee who absolutely rifles one from the point. Powerplay Goal.
Tigers Goal
4-1 Gal, (5)
Taylor Gal blocks a pass along the blueline short handed and is sent in on a breakaway. Nathan Green just manages to catch him at the last second and trips him up. Gal is still able to get a shot off as he is falling. The goalie stops the shot but the puck is knocked into the net as Gal, and Nathan Green crash into him.
End OF Second
Well I thought the tigers let off the gas pedal a little bit compared to teh first period. You could see the frustration in their play as they are doing a bit of pushing and shoving after the whistle.
I'm not seeing very many checks being finished and the rebels look like they have built a lot of confidence in their play.
--------------------------------------
Third Period
Tiger Goal
4-2 King, (8) (Cameron, Kundratek),
Just as the Tigers PP was expiring, Off the Wing I thought it was Emerson Etem who shot the puck and Rebels Goalie Darcy Kuemper knocked it away with his blocker, However the puck went off the glass behind him and right back out in front. Tristan King skated in and put it home.
End Game
Final Score 4-2 Rebels.
Well the tigers played better in the third but I really thought the rebels let off the gas pedal. The refs were pretty favorable to the tigers and they got a few PP opportunities. The tigers managed quite a few high quality scoring chances and Darcy Kuemper stood on his head and turned most of them away.
A very disappointing road trip going 0-3, But that last period was a step in the right direction.
The tigers take on the struggling Seattle Thunderbirds Tomorrow night at the Arena.
New Events Center
City Council held a meeting yesterday on the Events Center.
If you missed the meeting and would like to watch it you can download it from the medicine hat website. http://www.city.medicine-hat.ab.ca/City%20Government/Departments/Community%20Development/New%20Event%20Centre%20Planning/index.asp
*Top link on page*
Note there is no audio for the first 30 minutes. So I skipped the beginning.
Key Notes
- They presented a proposal for 5500 seat arena expandable to 6500. It would maintain that "close" atmosphere feel. IT would also have 22 suites located at one end. The score clock could be pulled up if need be. Their would be a restaurant and lounge.
-The total cost they estimate at around 89 million dollars, with a 5% leeway of 94 million Dollars.
-The building would be about 175,00-180,000 square feet which is 3 times the size of the current arena.
They also said that the operating cost of the current arena for next year is about $400,000. The operating cost for the new building would be much lower.(I think they said $175,000 but I cant remember)
- 25 year lifetime expectancy. They also said that if they build it at the arena location there would obviously be flood issues.
On November 16th council is expected to go over funding options.
They also said that city council is expected to vote on the project on january 4th, 2010
If you missed the meeting and would like to watch it you can download it from the medicine hat website. http://www.city.medicine-hat.ab.ca/City%20Government/Departments/Community%20Development/New%20Event%20Centre%20Planning/index.asp
*Top link on page*
Note there is no audio for the first 30 minutes. So I skipped the beginning.
Key Notes
- They presented a proposal for 5500 seat arena expandable to 6500. It would maintain that "close" atmosphere feel. IT would also have 22 suites located at one end. The score clock could be pulled up if need be. Their would be a restaurant and lounge.
-The total cost they estimate at around 89 million dollars, with a 5% leeway of 94 million Dollars.
-The building would be about 175,00-180,000 square feet which is 3 times the size of the current arena.
They also said that the operating cost of the current arena for next year is about $400,000. The operating cost for the new building would be much lower.(I think they said $175,000 but I cant remember)
- 25 year lifetime expectancy. They also said that if they build it at the arena location there would obviously be flood issues.
On November 16th council is expected to go over funding options.
They also said that city council is expected to vote on the project on january 4th, 2010
Thursday, October 29, 2009
2 Tigers Named to Team WHL
The 2009 SUBWAY® Super Series will take place November 16 – 26 and marks the seventh straight year that teams of CHL All-Stars have competed against Team Russia in preparation for the World Junior Hockey Championships.
Tigers forwards Wacey Hamilton and Linden Vey are expected to take part in both games being held on November 25th in Victoria and November 26th in Kelowna.
Those dates actually come at a good time as the tigers are on a 6 day layoff period, during that week.
http://www.whl.ca/team-whl-rosters-announced-for-subway%C2%AE-super-series-p138492
Tigers forwards Wacey Hamilton and Linden Vey are expected to take part in both games being held on November 25th in Victoria and November 26th in Kelowna.
Those dates actually come at a good time as the tigers are on a 6 day layoff period, during that week.
http://www.whl.ca/team-whl-rosters-announced-for-subway%C2%AE-super-series-p138492
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tigers 0 @ P.A 6
Pre Game Notes
Wacey Hamilton still out of the lineup.
Devin Dubyk Gets the start tonight.
Looks Like Okal, Kessey, and Cameron are wearing full face shields.
Boston Leier Is dressed for the second straight game.
Line Combos
Kessey Vey Etem
Okal Cameron King
Gal Frazer M. MacKay
Leier Petryk S. MKay
Lines Were mixed up in the second period. In the third period the 3rd and 4th lines played the last half of the game.
-------------------------
1st Period
Lots of continuous play, not many whistles both teams had a few good chances. Tigers started a bit slow but started putting more pressure on later in the period.
Zdenik Okal had a half open net but couldn't backhand a shot over a sprawled out Garret Zemlak. Also the Raiders had a shorthanded Breakaway but they didn't get a shot on net as Isherwood raced back and got a stick in the way to deflect the puck high
Dylan Businius played a lot more minutes than usual. HE took a surprise hit with about 5 minutes to go and looked like he was limping a bit, hopefully its just a slight charley horse.
End OF First
--------------------
Second Period
Ugg A repeat of the second period in last nights game.
Raiders Goal
1-0 Raiders Hickmott, (8) (Herrod, Deck)
The tigers forwards were caught being greedy and not coming back quick enough. Jordan Hickmott the late guy coming in was fed a really nice pass By Brandon Herrod. Hickmott just waited as Dubyk dropped to his knees, and Hickmott easily deked to the left and put the puck into a partial open net.
Raiders Goal
2-0 Herrod, (7) (Maylan)
Jace Coyle coughed the puck up along the boards high in the tigers zone. The raiders then had a 3on1 in which Justin Maylan Gave a cross ice pass to brandon Herrod who shot it onto the partial open net. Dubyk didnt have much chance on that one.
Raider Goal
3-0 McCallum, (7) (Rowley, Herrod),
A pretty big Defensive breakdown McCallum was allowed to walk behind the net out the otherside for a wrap around, then managed to get his own rebound completely untouched. The defenders and center man got caught watching
Its disappointing the Tigers are bringing their "B" game. It looks like they are tired, or have bus legs or something. Their not moving their feet like they did during those 2 blowouts at the arena. They miss their Captain Wacey Hamilton to light a fire under their @$$. They did manage quite a few shots in the second, but a lot of them were long shots on the PP. They are making Garrett Zemlak look good with most of their shots coming either from the outside, or not getting good wood on close encounters in tight.
End Of Second.
---------------------------
Third Period
Raiders Goal
4-0 Cameron, (6) (Maylan, Button),
Jace Coyle gets caught up on a rush. ON a 4 on2 he fires a bullet of a pass that Cameron cant handle. Raiders turn it back the other way on a 2 on 1
Justin Maylan Waited out a sprawling defender then passed to dustin cameron who tipped it in on the open net.
Raider Goal
5-0 Rowley, (2)
Rowley fired a hard wrist shot from the point. Kundratek got his stick in the way trying to knock the puck down, and perfectly tipped it into his own net.
Raider Goal
6-0 Hickmott, (9) (Deck, Revenko)
Raiders on the PP. Deck passed it over To Hickmott on the half wall who one-timed it on net. It looked like Scott McKay may have screened Dubyk as the puck went in low stick side.
End Game
--------------------
5 of 6 periods these last 2 games I thought the tigers didn't bring a complete effort. Tonight it was not one specific area but it was a pretty equal team loss. Forwards, Goaltending and Defense was not up to snuff.
The Raiders goaltender played a pretty good game. He stopped the tough shots when he had too, and managed to control his rebounds on a lot of those shots from the outside.
The tigers were also 0/7 on the PP. They gave up a breakaway and 2- 2on1 rushes while on their powerplay.
3 Stars
1. P.A - 26 Brandon Herrod
2. P.A - 35 Garrett Zemlak
3. P.A - 12 Craig McCallum
Link TO MH News article: http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/149610/110/
--------------------
Article Comments
Found a couple comments to be a little amusing.
Challenge Issued?
-Willie Desjardin's Comments in the paper
“It’s tough but that’s why not everybody wins and not everybody goes on to be hockey players. That’s when you see the character of your team, the character of your players.”
Wacey Hamilton still out of the lineup.
Devin Dubyk Gets the start tonight.
Looks Like Okal, Kessey, and Cameron are wearing full face shields.
Boston Leier Is dressed for the second straight game.
Line Combos
Kessey Vey Etem
Okal Cameron King
Gal Frazer M. MacKay
Leier Petryk S. MKay
Lines Were mixed up in the second period. In the third period the 3rd and 4th lines played the last half of the game.
-------------------------
1st Period
Lots of continuous play, not many whistles both teams had a few good chances. Tigers started a bit slow but started putting more pressure on later in the period.
Zdenik Okal had a half open net but couldn't backhand a shot over a sprawled out Garret Zemlak. Also the Raiders had a shorthanded Breakaway but they didn't get a shot on net as Isherwood raced back and got a stick in the way to deflect the puck high
Dylan Businius played a lot more minutes than usual. HE took a surprise hit with about 5 minutes to go and looked like he was limping a bit, hopefully its just a slight charley horse.
End OF First
--------------------
Second Period
Ugg A repeat of the second period in last nights game.
Raiders Goal
1-0 Raiders Hickmott, (8) (Herrod, Deck)
The tigers forwards were caught being greedy and not coming back quick enough. Jordan Hickmott the late guy coming in was fed a really nice pass By Brandon Herrod. Hickmott just waited as Dubyk dropped to his knees, and Hickmott easily deked to the left and put the puck into a partial open net.
Raiders Goal
2-0 Herrod, (7) (Maylan)
Jace Coyle coughed the puck up along the boards high in the tigers zone. The raiders then had a 3on1 in which Justin Maylan Gave a cross ice pass to brandon Herrod who shot it onto the partial open net. Dubyk didnt have much chance on that one.
Raider Goal
3-0 McCallum, (7) (Rowley, Herrod),
A pretty big Defensive breakdown McCallum was allowed to walk behind the net out the otherside for a wrap around, then managed to get his own rebound completely untouched. The defenders and center man got caught watching
Its disappointing the Tigers are bringing their "B" game. It looks like they are tired, or have bus legs or something. Their not moving their feet like they did during those 2 blowouts at the arena. They miss their Captain Wacey Hamilton to light a fire under their @$$. They did manage quite a few shots in the second, but a lot of them were long shots on the PP. They are making Garrett Zemlak look good with most of their shots coming either from the outside, or not getting good wood on close encounters in tight.
End Of Second.
---------------------------
Third Period
Raiders Goal
4-0 Cameron, (6) (Maylan, Button),
Jace Coyle gets caught up on a rush. ON a 4 on2 he fires a bullet of a pass that Cameron cant handle. Raiders turn it back the other way on a 2 on 1
Justin Maylan Waited out a sprawling defender then passed to dustin cameron who tipped it in on the open net.
Raider Goal
5-0 Rowley, (2)
Rowley fired a hard wrist shot from the point. Kundratek got his stick in the way trying to knock the puck down, and perfectly tipped it into his own net.
Raider Goal
6-0 Hickmott, (9) (Deck, Revenko)
Raiders on the PP. Deck passed it over To Hickmott on the half wall who one-timed it on net. It looked like Scott McKay may have screened Dubyk as the puck went in low stick side.
End Game
--------------------
5 of 6 periods these last 2 games I thought the tigers didn't bring a complete effort. Tonight it was not one specific area but it was a pretty equal team loss. Forwards, Goaltending and Defense was not up to snuff.
The Raiders goaltender played a pretty good game. He stopped the tough shots when he had too, and managed to control his rebounds on a lot of those shots from the outside.
The tigers were also 0/7 on the PP. They gave up a breakaway and 2- 2on1 rushes while on their powerplay.
3 Stars
1. P.A - 26 Brandon Herrod
2. P.A - 35 Garrett Zemlak
3. P.A - 12 Craig McCallum
Link TO MH News article: http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/149610/110/
--------------------
Article Comments
Found a couple comments to be a little amusing.
Challenge Issued?
-Willie Desjardin's Comments in the paper
“It’s tough but that’s why not everybody wins and not everybody goes on to be hockey players. That’s when you see the character of your team, the character of your players.”
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Tigers Whiped By Blades 7-2
I missed the first period. But from the sounds of things the tigers took it to the Blades in the first period but didn't have any luck being down 2-0.
The blades were playing really physical and it looked like it Intimidated the tigers in the second and third period.
In the second and third periods I thought the tigers played real poorly on their defensive game. They were soft on the puck, doing a lot of reaching and standing, which could be attributed to the physical play of Saskatoon. They still did manage a handful of good scoring opportunities, but the Blades did a pretty good job at whacking away pucks when the tigers started to close in.
It sounded like the tigers just had a very tough game, with some early injuries. Their gonna have to find a way to play with the blades physical style of play next time they face each other.
Willie Desjardin Interview
The blades broadcaster Interviewed Willie Desjardin after the game and he sounded pretty pissed in a polite sort of way, giving very short generic answers.
Willie Said that they lost 3 guys in the first 5 minutes of the game and was forced to play the 16 year olds on their 3rd line.
I could see Both Okal, and Cameron wearing full face shields. The tigers looked pretty tired in the third and they are probably a little banged up.
They will have to find a way to come back against Prince Albert Tomorrow.
Link to the MH News Article: http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/149012/110/
The blades were playing really physical and it looked like it Intimidated the tigers in the second and third period.
In the second and third periods I thought the tigers played real poorly on their defensive game. They were soft on the puck, doing a lot of reaching and standing, which could be attributed to the physical play of Saskatoon. They still did manage a handful of good scoring opportunities, but the Blades did a pretty good job at whacking away pucks when the tigers started to close in.
It sounded like the tigers just had a very tough game, with some early injuries. Their gonna have to find a way to play with the blades physical style of play next time they face each other.
Willie Desjardin Interview
The blades broadcaster Interviewed Willie Desjardin after the game and he sounded pretty pissed in a polite sort of way, giving very short generic answers.
Willie Said that they lost 3 guys in the first 5 minutes of the game and was forced to play the 16 year olds on their 3rd line.
I could see Both Okal, and Cameron wearing full face shields. The tigers looked pretty tired in the third and they are probably a little banged up.
They will have to find a way to come back against Prince Albert Tomorrow.
Link to the MH News Article: http://www.medicinehatnews.com/content/view/149012/110/
Monday, October 26, 2009
Monday
A couple small pieces of news.
Tigers player of the week
Tristan King was named the Tigers player of the week, after recording 7 points in 3 games.
http://www.tigershockey.com/media/media.php?stype=browsei&season=2009&month=Oct&lim1=0
The WHL This week
Jon Keen interviewed Willie Desjardin and they talked about his role for the upcoming World Junoirs. Also at the end of the show they aired a piece which included Bob Ridley interviewing the CHL player of the week Mark Isherwood
http://www.whl.ca/Easton-WHL-Radio-Show-s11270
Here is an article from the Edmonton Journal about the Tigers demolishing the Oil Kings On Saturday.
http://www.edmontonjournal.com/sports/Tigers+gobble+struggling+Kings/2142777/story.html
A couple quotes from the article
"That's the worst performance that I've seen in the 2 1/2 years I've been here," Oil Kings head coach Steve Pleau said. "That's unacceptable from every standpoint. We were out-played, out-worked, out-coached out ... everything."
"Koper worked his butt off tonight and I should personally apologize to him," the coach said. "To get beat by your ex-team like that, that's gotta hurt. But he played with pride. I give him a lot of credit."
------------------------------------------------
Recently Traded Tigers
Colton Grant----8GP--1G--2A--3PTS --- -1 --13PMS
John Stampohar--6GP--0G--2A--2PTS---- -4---7PMS
Cody Carlson----4GP--0G--2A--2PTS--- -2 ---0PMS
Josh Koper------2GP--1G--0A--1PTS--- +1----4PM
Carlson has been playing on Regina's Top Line with Colton Tuebert.
Those stats are all games they have played with their new team.
Tigers New Guys
Matt MacKay 11GP--6G--3A--9PTS --- +1 --5PMS
Cole Grbavac 2GP--0G--1A--1PTS --- -1 --0PMS
Deven Dubyk GP:2 MIN:65 GA:5 Saves:30 G.A.A:4.58 SV%:.857
I haven't heard anything new about Cole Grbavac.
Tigers player of the week
Tristan King was named the Tigers player of the week, after recording 7 points in 3 games.
http://www.tigershockey.com/media/media.php?stype=browsei&season=2009&month=Oct&lim1=0
The WHL This week
Jon Keen interviewed Willie Desjardin and they talked about his role for the upcoming World Junoirs. Also at the end of the show they aired a piece which included Bob Ridley interviewing the CHL player of the week Mark Isherwood
http://www.whl.ca/Easton-WHL-Radio-Show-s11270
Here is an article from the Edmonton Journal about the Tigers demolishing the Oil Kings On Saturday.
http://www.edmontonjournal.com/sports/Tigers+gobble+struggling+Kings/2142777/story.html
A couple quotes from the article
"That's the worst performance that I've seen in the 2 1/2 years I've been here," Oil Kings head coach Steve Pleau said. "That's unacceptable from every standpoint. We were out-played, out-worked, out-coached out ... everything."
"Koper worked his butt off tonight and I should personally apologize to him," the coach said. "To get beat by your ex-team like that, that's gotta hurt. But he played with pride. I give him a lot of credit."
------------------------------------------------
Recently Traded Tigers
Colton Grant----8GP--1G--2A--3PTS --- -1 --13PMS
John Stampohar--6GP--0G--2A--2PTS---- -4---7PMS
Cody Carlson----4GP--0G--2A--2PTS--- -2 ---0PMS
Josh Koper------2GP--1G--0A--1PTS--- +1----4PM
Carlson has been playing on Regina's Top Line with Colton Tuebert.
Those stats are all games they have played with their new team.
Tigers New Guys
Matt MacKay 11GP--6G--3A--9PTS --- +1 --5PMS
Cole Grbavac 2GP--0G--1A--1PTS --- -1 --0PMS
Deven Dubyk GP:2 MIN:65 GA:5 Saves:30 G.A.A:4.58 SV%:.857
I haven't heard anything new about Cole Grbavac.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Tigers Defeat Oil Kings 7-1
Pre Game
Direct Link to Gamesheet: www.whl.ca
The tigers website stated that they just re-assigned Boston Leir, and Curtis Valk. However Valk is dressed for tonights game. Also Dman Scott McKay has had a couple forward shifts
Edmonton is on a 3 game losing streak. They have however taken 3 of 4 points against the tigers, and smoked them 5-1 last time the tigers visited Edmonton
Scratches: Zdenik Okal(concussion) Tomas Kundratek(Flu) Wacey Hamilton(Unknown)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1st Period
Edmonton Goal
1-0 Edmonton Koper, (2) (Raedeke, Proulx), 0:33
The Oil Kings Open up the scoring early. Some very good work from Readeke, Koper, proux line. Josh Koper Picks up the rebound on a goal mouth scramble and puts it past Bunz.
Tiger Goal
1-1 Cameron, (12) (King, Gal), 0:43
Right after the Oil Kings goal, the tigers pick up the puck off the faceoff, they come in on a mini 2on1. Triston King feeds Bretton Cameron and the goalie has no chance.
Tiger Goal
2-1 TigersEtem, (12) , 5:23 (SH)
Shorthanded Emerson Etem picks up the puck in the Oil Kings zone, walks out in front and uses his long reach to wrap the puck around Edmonton's Goaltender.
Tiger Goal
3-1 Tigers King, (6) (Vey, Carr), 15:01 (PP)
The tigers look like they've developed a nice little system to get some room on the powerplay. Carr feeds Linden Vey who Feeds Triston King, and he fires a wrist shot. Kale Kessey was in perfect positioning providing a nice screen.
Tiger Goal
4-1 Tigers King, (7) (Etem, Vey), 18:00 (PP)
A bit of a controversial Play. Just prior to the goal Emerson Etem was crunched he had his head down coming out of the zone, However the Oil King player came full speed right from the bench. Kale Kessey Immediately went over and started a fight.
The Oil Kings commentator was pretty furious that the tigers did not get an instigator penalty.(Kessey Did start the fight so his point was valid)
On the powerplay a Tiger Defender feeds Triston King up high and the tigers get a 2-0 breakaway, Kings feeds Etem who feeds King and scores on the open net.
Fight: Kale Kessey vs Travis Ewanyk
Not much of a fight. It started after the Emerson Hit. Kessey Tripped on a stick and they went down
The Oil Kings look frustrated you may see some of their frustration boiling over if the tigers get a bigger lead.
End Period
-----------------------------------------
2nd Period
Tiger Goal
5-1 Tigers Coyle, (3) (Etem, Kessy), 5:38
Emerson Etem has the puck down low and feeds a pinching Coyle from the point. He fires a slapper in from the high slot.
Thats it for Cam Lanigan. Torrie Jung replaces him in net
After that goal the pace of the game has really slowed down.
Fight
Tanner Sohn vs Brett Breitkreuz.
Not sure how it started but Sohn gets off to a good start throwing multiple rights to the back of BreitKreuz's head. Sohn then throws a couple jabs with his left trying to get Breitkreuz's to face him. Breitkreuz throws a left jab and squares around. Sohn then starts chucking the rights again and Breitkreuz half turns around. He then goes for the takedown picking Up Sohn's leg and tackling him.....which means the tigers get a powerplay. Breuitkruez also gets a game misconduct
End OF Second
----------------------
Third Period
Tiger Goal
6-1 TigersMacKay, (6) (Vey, King), 10:24 (PP)
On the Powerplay Triston King makes a very nice move, He beats his man along the boards, and makes a perfect pass over to Matt MacKay. MacKay didn't get good wood on the shot but it trickled in.
Tiger Goal
7-1 Tigers Vey, (6) (Carr, Busenius), 14:18 (PP)
On the PP linden Vey walks off the halfwall and beats Torrie Jung on the short side.
2 oil kings were caught in the middle of the ice, and Linden had allot of open ice to walk in on.
Tanner Sohn went feet first into the boards, camera zoomed out right away but it didn't look that healthy.
End Game
------------------------
The game was all tigers. They controlled the play and gave their young guys allot of Ice time in the third period.
3 Stars
1. M.H - 19 Tristan King
2. M.H - 26 Emerson Etem
3. EDM - 12 Josh Koper
This weekend was phenomenal. Outscoring the opposition 16-3. IT seems like they are finally developing that Killer Instinct. The kind of instinct that only the elite teams posses. Whats more impressive is they did it without 3 of their top guys who were out with injuries.
On the radio I was amused at how the Oil Kings play by play man was directing harsh comments to the league. He really does not like the new fighting rules, and kept commenting about it throughout the game. Especially about the instigator that wasn't called, and when Breitzkruz was given a game misconduct for throwing Sohn to the ice during their fight.
I really like the quality of the Oil Kings webcast. The camera guy does a decent job, but they also have a great opening clip to start the game, they show some of the fan giveaways, and they play funny videos during the intermission.
Top Quality stuff and entertaining.
Direct Link to Gamesheet: www.whl.ca
The tigers website stated that they just re-assigned Boston Leir, and Curtis Valk. However Valk is dressed for tonights game. Also Dman Scott McKay has had a couple forward shifts
Edmonton is on a 3 game losing streak. They have however taken 3 of 4 points against the tigers, and smoked them 5-1 last time the tigers visited Edmonton
Scratches: Zdenik Okal(concussion) Tomas Kundratek(Flu) Wacey Hamilton(Unknown)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1st Period
Edmonton Goal
1-0 Edmonton Koper, (2) (Raedeke, Proulx), 0:33
The Oil Kings Open up the scoring early. Some very good work from Readeke, Koper, proux line. Josh Koper Picks up the rebound on a goal mouth scramble and puts it past Bunz.
Tiger Goal
1-1 Cameron, (12) (King, Gal), 0:43
Right after the Oil Kings goal, the tigers pick up the puck off the faceoff, they come in on a mini 2on1. Triston King feeds Bretton Cameron and the goalie has no chance.
Tiger Goal
2-1 TigersEtem, (12) , 5:23 (SH)
Shorthanded Emerson Etem picks up the puck in the Oil Kings zone, walks out in front and uses his long reach to wrap the puck around Edmonton's Goaltender.
Tiger Goal
3-1 Tigers King, (6) (Vey, Carr), 15:01 (PP)
The tigers look like they've developed a nice little system to get some room on the powerplay. Carr feeds Linden Vey who Feeds Triston King, and he fires a wrist shot. Kale Kessey was in perfect positioning providing a nice screen.
Tiger Goal
4-1 Tigers King, (7) (Etem, Vey), 18:00 (PP)
A bit of a controversial Play. Just prior to the goal Emerson Etem was crunched he had his head down coming out of the zone, However the Oil King player came full speed right from the bench. Kale Kessey Immediately went over and started a fight.
The Oil Kings commentator was pretty furious that the tigers did not get an instigator penalty.(Kessey Did start the fight so his point was valid)
On the powerplay a Tiger Defender feeds Triston King up high and the tigers get a 2-0 breakaway, Kings feeds Etem who feeds King and scores on the open net.
Fight: Kale Kessey vs Travis Ewanyk
Not much of a fight. It started after the Emerson Hit. Kessey Tripped on a stick and they went down
The Oil Kings look frustrated you may see some of their frustration boiling over if the tigers get a bigger lead.
End Period
-----------------------------------------
2nd Period
Tiger Goal
5-1 Tigers Coyle, (3) (Etem, Kessy), 5:38
Emerson Etem has the puck down low and feeds a pinching Coyle from the point. He fires a slapper in from the high slot.
Thats it for Cam Lanigan. Torrie Jung replaces him in net
After that goal the pace of the game has really slowed down.
Fight
Tanner Sohn vs Brett Breitkreuz.
Not sure how it started but Sohn gets off to a good start throwing multiple rights to the back of BreitKreuz's head. Sohn then throws a couple jabs with his left trying to get Breitkreuz's to face him. Breitkreuz throws a left jab and squares around. Sohn then starts chucking the rights again and Breitkreuz half turns around. He then goes for the takedown picking Up Sohn's leg and tackling him.....which means the tigers get a powerplay. Breuitkruez also gets a game misconduct
End OF Second
----------------------
Third Period
Tiger Goal
6-1 TigersMacKay, (6) (Vey, King), 10:24 (PP)
On the Powerplay Triston King makes a very nice move, He beats his man along the boards, and makes a perfect pass over to Matt MacKay. MacKay didn't get good wood on the shot but it trickled in.
Tiger Goal
7-1 Tigers Vey, (6) (Carr, Busenius), 14:18 (PP)
On the PP linden Vey walks off the halfwall and beats Torrie Jung on the short side.
2 oil kings were caught in the middle of the ice, and Linden had allot of open ice to walk in on.
Tanner Sohn went feet first into the boards, camera zoomed out right away but it didn't look that healthy.
End Game
------------------------
The game was all tigers. They controlled the play and gave their young guys allot of Ice time in the third period.
3 Stars
1. M.H - 19 Tristan King
2. M.H - 26 Emerson Etem
3. EDM - 12 Josh Koper
This weekend was phenomenal. Outscoring the opposition 16-3. IT seems like they are finally developing that Killer Instinct. The kind of instinct that only the elite teams posses. Whats more impressive is they did it without 3 of their top guys who were out with injuries.
On the radio I was amused at how the Oil Kings play by play man was directing harsh comments to the league. He really does not like the new fighting rules, and kept commenting about it throughout the game. Especially about the instigator that wasn't called, and when Breitzkruz was given a game misconduct for throwing Sohn to the ice during their fight.
I really like the quality of the Oil Kings webcast. The camera guy does a decent job, but they also have a great opening clip to start the game, they show some of the fan giveaways, and they play funny videos during the intermission.
Top Quality stuff and entertaining.
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