ECHL Idaho Steelheads

Aces dominate undermanned Steelheads

February 18, 2011 - ECHL (ECHL)
Idaho Steelheads News Release


(Boise, ID) - The Alaska Aces converted on three of their five power-play chances Friday night, beating the Idaho Steelheads, 5-2, in front of 4,950 fans at Qwest Arena in Boise.

Wes Goldie, among the top goal-scorers in ECHL history, scored once and handed out three assists for the Aces as the visitors dominated Idaho from the opening puck-drop. Goldie netted the first goal at 3:09 and assisted on Alaska's next three goals, two of which came from Brian Swanson, as the Aces took a 4-1 lead midway through the third period.

Evan Barlow extended his point streak to a team-best nine consecutive games with a third-period power-play goal to get Idaho (24-18-10) to within 4-2 with more than five minutes to play.

However, before Idaho could build any more momentum, Tyler Ruegsegger skated in along the goal line uncontested and banged a shot past Tyler Beskorowany to re-establish a three-goal lead and take the air out of building.

Idaho's first goal of the night game off the stick of Dean Yakura at 5:49 of the first period. It was his first shot on goal as a Steelhead after being signed by the team earlier in the day.

Despite allowing five goals on 40 shots, Beskorowany played well in net. Alaska pounded on Idaho all night and the relentless pressure led to some easy opportunities for the Aces. Beskorowany is now 10-5-4 on the season. Adam Courchaine was the winning netminder for Alaska, stopping 19 of 21 Idaho shots.

The Steelheads currently have five players on assignment in the American Hockey League and three others on the 21-day Injured Reserve, which led to Idaho head coach Hardy Sauter to bringing in Yakura and Bear Trapp to give the team fifteen skaters.

Alaska's win coupled with Utah's loss at home to Las Vegas vaulted the Aces into first place in the ECHL's Mountain Division.

Idaho is back at it again Saturday night against their long-time rival, the Alaska Aces. Game time Saturday night is 7 PM. Tickets are available at www.idahosteelheads.com or by calling 208.331.TIXS.

Check out the Idaho Steelheads Statistics



ECHL Stories from February 18, 2011


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