NAHL Springfield Jr. Blues

A Big Win!!!

Published on March 25, 2011 under North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Springfield Jr. Blues News Release


Tonight is the first of the final three games of the 2010-11 season for both clubs as neither made it to the playoffs this year. What incentive do these teams have, you may ask? Well, the Blues have a chance to knock Motor City out of fifth place in the North Division, and swap places with them in the final standings. Along with this, they can set the tone for next year and head into the summer break with a momentum we haven't seen around Springfield in far too many years. With so many players set to return to the old Barn called the "Nellie" next year things are looking extremely promising! Also, what a great way to welcome a new head coach than winning the last three games of the season on enemy ice. That would be a super welcome to a new Head Coach, don't you think?

The first period went by fast once again. The Blues were called for three penalties to NONE by Motor City, and yes, two of the three were just a bit questionable! Sometimes I think I should become an on ice official. Not! Everything was even as both teams played good, solid defense until Chris Sitler took a pass from T.J. Poganski and cranked it past the Motor City goalie. Mike Williams was also given an assist on the play at 15:24 of the first. Now, I've given the officials a bit of grousing, but all in all they have done a good job during the opening period. Don't let anyone know I said that though! I would hate to ruin my reputation by giving the zebras credit. Okay?!

I overheard a comment from one of the guys today that stated neither team had a lot to play in this last series of the year because neither team was going to the playoffs. Baloney I said! There is PRIDE, and the chance to start some momentum for next year. I didn't hear any more grousing.

Period two seemed to take forever, but it lasted the regulation 20 minutes. At 8:42 Stew Bell and Mike Monfredo dropped the gloves and went at it in the Blues offensive zone. The fight didn't last long and I think Stew "didn't win this one", but both players got five minute rests in the penalty box. Stew had to get some equipment replaced and left the ice for repair, so he didn't get the five minute rest in the sin bin.

Chris Sitler scored his second goal at 17:20 of the period on a drag through the crease and a pop up over the Motor City goalie's pads. He scored unassisted, and you can't help but think maybe he is playing this game in honor of his grandmother, who passed away this week. After two periods it's 2 - 1 in favor of the good guys!

The Blues have been playing excellent defense again tonight and they get a little more exciting to watch with each succeeding game. Time for the third. Let's go Blues!!

Through the first two periods the Blues have been whistled for six penalties to just two for Motor City. I had to step back and take a moment when one of the Metal Jackets grabbed and held on to one of the Blues' Jersey resulting in NO CALL. Still, the Blues are definitely staying in the game in spite of the number of penalties being called against them.

Enough about the poor officiating, even referees have a bad game once in a while. The Blues win an exciting game. Seven goals were scored in the third period, three by Motor City and four by the good guys, final score 6 - 4. The Blues defense played well, and the offense cranked it up in the third for a season record 29-23-3. Cody Kohn played one of his best games all year, along with Chris Sitler. All in all, they played a solid game from start to finish.

Tomorrow night will be round two and I'll be on FASTHockey with all who tune in to bring you all the action. I'll also send out my article to you as well. More action, and hockey at its best, the Springfield Jr. Blues and the Motor City Metal Jackets in the North American Hockey League! As the old saying goes...it just doesn't get any better than this!

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North American Hockey League Stories from March 25, 2011


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