Bridgeport suffers first shutout this season in setback at Bojangles Coliseum
January 15, 2019 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Bridgeport Islanders News Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Charlotte Checkers goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic made 20 saves for his second shutout of the season on Tuesday, as the Bridgeport Sound Tigers (22-13-9-4), proud AHL affiliate of the New York Islanders, were blanked for the first time this year in a 1-0 loss at Bojangles Coliseum.
It was Bridgeport's first 1-0 regulation loss since Feb. 2, 2018 and extended the club's winless in regulation streak to seven games. Defenseman Chris Casto led the way with four shots for the Sound Tigers, but couldn't beat Nedeljkovic, who won his league-leading 19th contest.
BOX SCORE
Aleksi Saarela scored the game's only goal when he banked a shot off the right post and in past Christopher Gibson (10-6-4) at 9:30 of the opening period. Charlotte's leading scorer Andrew Poturalski stole the puck behind the net and centered a pass for Saarela, who converted a quick shot for his 12th goal of the season.
The Checkers controlled the majority of the opening frame and outshot Bridgeport 11-5 when it was all said and done. The second period was closer, as the Sound Tigers held their opponent to just six shots, despite being shorthanded four times. Bridgeport finally sustained consistent offensive-zone pressure in the third and peppered Nedeljkovic with chances often, especially in the final two minutes, but couldn't draw the contest even.
The Sound Tigers finished the game a perfect 6-for-6 on the penalty kill, but 0-for-4 on the power play, including two chances in the third period. Gibson made 25 saves on 26 shots in net for Bridgeport.
Next Time Out: The Sound Tigers and Checkers rematch tomorrow night with a 7 p.m. puck drop at Bojangles Coliseum. Fans can follow all of the live action online via the Sound Tigers Radio Network and AHLTV, beginning with the pre-game show at 6:45 p.m.
Next Home Game: The Sound Tigers host the Providence Bruins for their popular Star Wars Night this Saturday, featuring a 7 p.m. puck drop at Webster Bank Arena. The first 3,000 fans receive a free lightsaber and everyone in attendance is encouraged to meet Star Wars characters on the concourse. A $25 ticket package is on sale now (online or over the phone only), which includes access to the game and a food voucher valid for one (1) hot dog, one (1) soft drink, one (1) bag of chips and one (1) guaranteed lightsaber. Fans may call the Sound Tigers front office at 203-345-2300 ext. 7 or CLICK HERE to purchase!
Packed Promotional Lineup: The Sound Tigers boast one of their most extensive and wide-ranging promotional schedules ever for the 2018-19 season. The fan-friendly calendar includes the return of popular themes like Hockey and Hops (Mar. 17), Star Wars Night (Jan. 19) and Princess Night (Mar. 30). Regional hockey fans will also be elated for the addition of Hockey Weekend in Connecticut (Feb. 23-24). View the full 2018-19 promotional schedule.
For additional details or to reserve a group outing for any giveaway or theme night, please call the Sound Tigers' front office at (203) 345-2300 ext 7.
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