Bulls Continue Hot Start to Season
October 9, 2014 - Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Belleville Bulls News Release
BELLEVILLE, ON - The Belleville Bulls added another two points on Wednesday night as they picked up their third straight win defeating the visiting Plymouth Whalers. It was a game of firsts for a couple of rookie forwards, Matt Luff and Brandon Saigeon both recorded their first career OHL goals and helped the Bulls stay a perfect 3-0 on their home ice. Charlie Graham made his fifth start of the season and made 25 saves in the 4-1 win.
A rather uneventful first period saw both clubs exchange late penalties but neither could jump ahead on the scoreboard. However there were pleanty of chances on both sides to draw first blood as shots favoured Belleville 20-15 after a scoreless 20 minutes of play.
Plymouth opened the scoring in the second period as left-winger Matt Mistele buried his 3rd of the season with an assist from Victor Crus Rydberg at 4:15. The lead was very short lived though; just 30 seconds later the Bulls answered right back with a goal of their own. Grimsby, Ontario native Brandon Saigeon put home is first career OHL goal from Michael Cramarossa and Chad Heffernan. That started a trend for Belleville as the goals kept piling up. While on the man advantage, Brett Gustavsen added another to his goal total when he beat Plymouth netminder Zach Bowman to give his club a 2-1 lead. Adam Laishram and Jordan Subban had assists on the go ahead marker. Belleville controlled a large part of the frame dominating in shots 19-3 and leading 2-1 heading into the dressing room.
Riding their momentum, the Bulls continued to apply the pressure early in the third period. Belleville capitalized on another power play opportunity as Oakville, Ontario native Matt Luff also scored his first career OHL goal at 5:30. Veteran forward Niki Petti set up the play that gave the Bulls a 2-goal cushion. The boys from the friendly city weren't finished though, 11 seconds later Brett Gustavsen found a loose puck just outside the crease and potted his second of the night to make it 4-1. Gustavsen has racked up 5 points in 6 games and was awarded the first star of the contest. "A few bounces were going my way tonight and if you are at the right place at the right time, the puck is going to land on your stick. It all starts from hard work, we have 24 guys who are working hard this year and that's what it is all about." said Gustavsen following the victory.
Brandon Saigeon took home third star honours, while Matt Luff received the second star. Charlie Graham remains undefeated and leads the league with a 1.20 goals against average. Bowman made 50 saves but the Bulls offence was too much as they out shot the Plymouth 54-26. "He's playing great and staying in front of pucks well. We're blocking a lot of shots for him but at the same time he's always there to save us at the end." added Gustavsen.
The home stand continues on Saturday night when the Bulls welcome the Niagara Ice Dogs to the Yardmen Arena. Puck drop is set for 7:05 PM. Tickets are still available, for more information visit yourbulls.com, stop by the Bulls Box Office or call (613) 966-8338.
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