Grizzlies drop opener, 3-2
October 21, 2006 - ECHL (ECHL)
Utah Grizzlies News Release
Phoenix, Arizona - The Phoenix Roadrunners won their home opener 3-2, as the Grizzlies opened their road schedule at the U.S. Airways Center for the second consecutive season.
The action started early in the first period as the Grizzlies found themselves on the defensive early in the game. Despite a barrage of shots by the Roadrunners, the Grizzlies got on the board first at the 12:05 mark, courtesy of newcomer Mike Wirll on their fourth shot of the game. Less than three minutes later Justin Cox beat goaltender Josh Tordjman to extend the lead. The Roadrunners Jake Ortmeyer tallied a 5 on 3 powerplay goal to bring the game within one. Despite six shorthanded situations and twenty shots on net, the Grizzlies held the 2-1 lead into the first intermission.
The parade to the penalty box continued for both teams, as the officials strictly enforced the ECHL's new standard of play, enabling Phoenix's Ortmeyer to strike again early in the second with another powerplay goal to even the score at two. A Matt Craig backhander got the fans in Phoenix on their feet, but Tordjman turned the shot aside, as both goaltenders settled in to keep the score tied.
At 10:59 of the third Ortmeyer completed the hat-trick with a 3 on 3 goal, the game winner. The Grizzlies netminder, Rob McVicar, had an outstanding game with 55 saves in the contest.
The teams face off each of the next two nights, then the Grizzlies return to Utah for their home opener versus Las Vegas next Friday, October 27, at 7:05. Call 988-PUCK for tickets.
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