Thursday, April 17, 2008

Bears downed 2-1 in OT

Freddie Cassivi and the rest of the Hershey Bears played well last night but it wasn't quite enough. The Bears had plenty of chances but couldn't quite get the break they needed.

The game was somewhat slow paced with neither team really getting anything going until the third period. The Penguins scored first with a goal by Connor James just 17 seconds into the third period. Chris Bourque scored later in the third to send the game into overtime.

In overtime Pens forward Chris Minard took advantage of a defensive letdown and poor communication between Sami Lepisto and Bourque to score the winning goal. Bourque and Lepisto collided behind the Hershey net and then the puck was sent up the boards where the Pens picked it up and put it in.

A good game from both teams. Not an extremely physical game, nor a great offensive game. Hershey should be happy with the defense as they limited the shots on Cassivi. After the past couple weekends where the Bear goalies were facing 40+ shots, this game was a solid outing. If the Bears can hold the Pens to 2 goals than they will win the series.

Mathieu Perrault played in his first ever pro hockey game. He was impressive in his debut. He started on the fourth line but eventually moved to the third line and played the whole way through the game.

Game 2 is set for Saturday night in Wilkes-Barre. Game time is 7:05. It isn't a long trip, everyone should consider driving up.

No comments: