Amerks Face Moose Tonight, Look To Avoid Season Sweep
March 28, 2008 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Rochester Americans News Release
Rochester Americans vs. Manitoba Moose Friday, March 28, 2008 @ The Blue Cross Arena, AHL Game #1035
Game Notes: Tonight, the Rochester Americans look for their first of win of the season against the Manitoba Moose in the second game of a two-game home mini series between the North Division rivals. The 7:35 p.m. contest will be broadcast live on Hot Talk 1280 WHTK, whtk.com and B2 networks. The game will also be tape delayed on Time Warner SportsNet Channel 26.
The game marks the 4,000th regular season game for the Amerks who are in their 52nd season in the American Hockey League. It was October 18, 1955 when the Rochester War Memorial, now The Blue Cross Arena, first opened at the "Rochester on parade" event. One year later, on October 14, 1956, the Amerks first hit the ice under Coach Billy Reay for a tie game against the Cleveland Barons. The 6,306 in attendance witnessed Rochester's first goal, scored by Mike Nykoluk at 11:03 of the first period. Earl Balfour tied the game up on a breakaway from center ice. In the subsequent years, the Amerks have seen their fair share of milestones. Rochester's 10,000th goal was scored at home on February 20, 1991 by Mr. Amerk himself, General Manager Jody Gage. Most recently, Amerks' Head Coach Randy Cunneyworth collected his 300th career coaching victory on March 2, 2008 against the Iowa Stars. In its 52-year history, Rochester has collected six Calder Cups, 14 divisional championships, and three conference championships.
Promotions: The contest falls on the next installment of the Amerks' Friday Night Frenzies. Fans can enjoy live music from Bandit in the main lobby of The Blue Cross Arena up until gametime. A face painter will be present as part of the festivities. Friday is also Scout Night. Scout troops are invited to purchase any 200 premium ticket for $12.00 (Regular price $21.00). Any 100 end ticket can be purchased for $10.00 (Regular price $17.00). Tickets may be purchased through the Amerks office at 585-454-5335 or through The Blue Cross Arena Box Office.
Head-to-Head: Rochester and Manitoba have competed seven times thus far this season, with the Moose coming out victorious in each meeting. The Amerks are 14-20-1 all-time against the Vancouver Canucks' Affiliate.
Amerks Notes: The Amerks (20-40-6-4) enter the contest after dropping a 4-1 decision to Manitoba in game one of the series Wednesday night at The Blue Cross Arena. Tanner Glass notched Rochester's lone goal to record his fourth goal this season. Mark Mancari remains Rochester's top point-getter with 48 points (16+32) on the year. First year defenseman-turned-forward Marc-Andre Gragnani follows closely with 47 points (12+35). His 47 points currently rank him fourth among AHL rookies while his 35 assists are a team best. Stefan Meyer and Dylan hunter each share the team lead with 18 goals apiece. Rochester currently sits at the bottom of the AHL.
Player Moves: Amerks General Manager Jody Gage announced yesterday that the team has signed forward Derek Whitmore to an amateur tryout contract (ATO). The 23-year-old joins the Amerks after a four-year collegiate career with Bowling Green State University. The Rochester native registered 102 points (70+32) and 84 penalty minutes (PIM) in 143 games for the Falcons. The Greece Arcadia graduate signed a two-year deal with the Buffalo Sabres on March 26th.
Moose Notes: Manitoba enters the contest currently riding a 10-game winning streak, picking up their most recent win over Rochester Wednesday night. Leading the way for the Moose is goaltender Drew MacIntyre with a 25-16-2 record on the year and the second best goals-against-average in the AHL at 2.10. Brad Moran leads the team in points with 69 (20+49) on the season. Leading the team in goals is left winger Jason Jaffray with 21. The Moose currently reside in third place in the Western Conference with 89 points and second in the North Division.
Next Game: Rochester travels to Van Andel Arena to face the Grand Rapids Griffins in the seventh of eight meetings between the two teams this season. The 7:00 p.m. contest will be broadcast live on Hot Talk 1280 WHTK, whtk.com and B2 networks.
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