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Pirates Look to Clinch VIP Cup in Matchup vs. Monarchs

March 8, 2013 - American Hockey League (AHL) - Portland Pirates News Release


Portland, ME - The Portland Pirates, winners of 6 of their last 7 home games look to keep the Manchester Monarchs at bay when they face off tonight at the Cumberland County Civic Center Friday night. Puck drop is set for 7 PM as the Pirates look to clinch at least a tie of the first ever VIP Cup, presented by VIP Parts, Tires & Service. The Monarchs sit in third in the Atlantic Division with 60, nine points behind the Pirates.

The Pirates are coming off a 4-3 shootout victory against the Connecticut Whale in Hartford. Goaltender Chad Johnson made 33 saves on 36 shots during regulation, while the Pirates had goals from Brandon Gormley, Chris Brown, and Chris Conner. Andy Miele scored in the sudden death shootout round to give the Pirates their 4th shootout victory of the year, and snap a 3 game skid against the Whale.

The Manchester Monarchs were victorious in their last game, defeating the Bridgeport Sound Tigers 3-2 in overtime. Rookie Jordan Weal scored the game winning goal in the extra frame, while Ian O'Connor and Colton Yellow Horn scored the goals in regulation. Manchester goaltender Martin Jones saved 32 of 34 shots faced, securing his 17th win in his 12th straight start for the Monarchs.

The last meeting between the Pirates and Monarchs was decided in overtime. Chris Conner gave the Pirates the win, scoring the winning goal just 7 seconds into extra time for the fastest overtime goal in Pirates history. Phil Lane scored twice in the hotly contested contest, while Maxim Goncharov also added his first goal of the year. The Pirates are 5-4 in the season long VIP Cup Series against the Monarchs and look for their 6th win tonight.

Tonight's game can be heard on 95.5 and 95.9 WPEI in the Portland area, 92.7FM and 100.7 FM WOXO FM in the Lewiston/Auburn area, and online on the WLOB radio player and AHL Live. The pregame show starts at 6:40 with Jeff Mannix.

Tickets are still available by calling (207) 828-4665 ext. 350 or online at ticketmaster.com.

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