Bats lose a close one in opener, 5-4
October 19, 2007 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Austin Ice Bats News Release
The Central Hockey League's Austin Ice Bats had a chance after coming back from two goals down in the third period, but Blair Manning of the Brahmas closed the door with a late goal to hand Austin their first loss 5-4.
The scoring started off the stick of Taylor Raszka, when he blasted home a power play goal at 15:39. Texas would quickly counter, however with two goals of their own by Jordan Cameron and Kevin McLeod. At the end of the first it was 2-1 Texas.
Early in the second period, the Ice Bats would tie things up again thanks to another power play goal by veteran Jamie Thompson. Throughout the period, the Brahmas were strong at keeping the play deep in the Bats zone, and it eventually led to two goals from Scott Sheppard. One of them was on the power play. At the end of the second the Brahmas held a 4-2 lead.
But in the third the Bats came out with a jolt of energy, propelled by Thompson's second goal of the game to close the gap to 4-3. Later on at 13:51 mark of period three, Taylor Raska took a pass from Kurtis Kisio to score on a breakaway and tie the game up at 4-4. But just as Ice Bats fans had something to cheer about, Blair Manning quieted the crowd by scoring the Brahmas fifth goal of the game less three minutes after the Bats tied the game.
The final score was 5-4, Texas.
Blair Manning of Texas was named the #1 Star of the game. Thompson and Raska of Austin were #2 and #3.
Next up for the Ice Bats is a road game tomorrow night against the Odessa Jackalopes, where they hope to pick up their first win of the season.
The Ice Bats are the AA affiliate of the Minnesota Wild (NHL) and the Houston Aeros (AHL). This is the team's 12th year in Austin. For single game, group, and season ticket packages call (512) 927-7825, or visit icebats.com for more information.
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