Controversial Goal Should Have Counted
April 25, 2002 - ECHL (ECHL)
Bakersfield Condors News Release
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. - The Bakersfield Condors received a formal notice from the West Coast Hockey League office on Thursday, issuing a statement regarding the disputed Game Four elimination against the San Diego Gulls last Friday night.
The goal in dispute would have tied the game late in the second period. Referee Mike Pearce appeared to have ruled the shot from Ryan Foster a goal, only later to waive it off. Pearce has been fined an undisclosed amount by the league and suspended from officiating further contests during the 2002 WCHL Taylor Cup Playoffs.
An official release from the league states, "Following careful review of this information, the WCHL office has determined that the goal scored by Condors forward Ryan Foster late in the second period should in fact have been allowed and would have tied the score at 3-3. It is further our determination that the referee erred in his decisions as well as his procedural policy and positioning during this questionable goal." The statement was released on Thursday morning from the WCHL offices in Boise, Idaho.
The release further states, "The WCHL office, on behalf of its staff and officials, hereby apologizes to Condors owner Jonathan Fleisig, the management and staff of the Bakersfield Condors, as well as the coaches, players, trainers, fans and sponsors of the organization."
"Obviously, we can't turn back the clock and what's done is done," said Condors President & GM Matthew Riley. "It was very disappointing to have our season end like it did. The players, staff and fans put everything they have into the Condors being successful and it's extremely frustrating to have something taken away from you that you feel is rightfully yours. With that being said, our league office handled this situation in a proficient manner by issuing their acknowledgment of the error and doling out sufficient disciplinary action.
"At the same time, we would like to send our apologies to the league representatives, and the family of Mr. Pearce, who were in attendance at Game Four, for the overzealous reaction by our organization and our fans. They were treated, for the most part, in a rude and chastising manner, and in no way deserved that treatment."
The Gulls advanced with a 3-2 victory over the Condors that night, winning the series three games to one, and await the start of their Southern Division Finals matchup against the Fresno Falcons this weekend.
Condors season tickets for the 2002-03 season are now available, with packages starting as low as $42. For information regarding season ticket packages and corporate sponsorships, contact the Condors office at 324-PUCK (7825), or visit the Condors office at Centennial Garden.
Condors droppings... A final "Condors Corner" will take place tonight at the Holiday Inn Select from 6:00-7:00pm, and air live on KGEO AM 1230. This week's guests will be Head Coach Paul Kelly, Aaron Brand, Jeff Goldie, and President & GM Matthew Riley... The American Red Cross is holding a nationwide Virtual Auction online from now until May 9th. The Condors have several packages up for bid, with proceeds raised going towards the American Red Cross - Kern County Chapter. Two pair of season tickets are on the auction, as is the opportunity to be a Radio Color Commentator for a game next season. Log on to www.ebay.com/redcross to view or bid on any items.
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