Indy wins opener, 5-2
by Mike Wallin
October 20, 2003 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Indianapolis Ice
It's been six long months since the puck has dropped to start a Central Hockey League game at the Pepsi Coliseum. Finally, "Opening Night 2003" arrived for Ice fans. Ken McRae's team gave the crowd of 5,783 a lot to cheer up after Indianapolis downed Bossier-Shreveport 5-2.
"I thought we really came out strong tonight," said McRae. "Bossier always gives us a tough game and tonight was no different. Anytime you can beat them, you know you have played a strong game. I thought we played with a lot of energy in the first, let up a bit in the second and really played wellin the third period."
Jared Dumba, a 32 goal scorer last season, paced the Ice with two early first period goals. Dumba scored his first on the power-play and gave the Ice a 2-0 lead just 3:21 later.
"We were all so jacked up tonight," said Dumba. "We knew we had to come out flying. It was our home opener and that had to play last night. It always helps to score early at home and get the crowd into it."
Jeff Sanger turned aside 26 Mudbug shots to earn his first win in net as a member of the Ice. Last season, Sanger tended goal for the Reading Royals of the ECHL. The Chicago Blackhawks assigned the second year pro to Indianapolis as part of the new Chicago-Indianapolis affiliation.
"I was nervous tonight, just like I am in any game," said Sanger. "Once I handle the puck a couple times, I settle into the game. Here in Indy, we are all still adjusting to each other. Still, I think we played well in our own zone and our play will only improve. For me, I am thrilled to be here in Indianapolis. I think this will be a great opportunity for me."
Sanger surrendered just two goals while looking sharp throughout the game. Trevor Buchanan and Craig Soke were able to slip the puck past Sanger, however it was not enough for the Mudbugs on this night.
Mike Zeibaq, Bernie John and former ECHL All-Star Joe Guenther also scored goals for Indianapolis. Mario Doyon contributed two assists in his return game to the Indianapolis Ice. Doyon played for the IHL Ice in 1989-90. Zeibaq came to Indianapolis earlier in the week after a trade with Corpus Cristi.
The Ice opening game roster included five rookies. Forwards Adam Redmond and Philippe Choiniere, defensemen Steve Lecuyer and Mike Bozoian as well as backup netminder Brent Zelenewich. Bozoian played 10 games in Germany last season and joined Indy just hours before faceoff. He had been in camp with the Dayton Bombers of the ECHL.
The Ice are off until Fort Worth comes to town for games next Friday and Saturday. Indianapolis will play on the road for the first time next Sunday in Memphis.
The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central.
Central Hockey League Stories from October 20, 2003
- Mudbugs Week in Review - Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs
- First Team Skate Party Announced - Corpus Christi IceRays
- Saints Week in Review - San Angelo Saints
- Gorillas Prepare for Home Opener this Friday against Expansion Bees - Amarillo Gorillas
- Thunder Split Opening Weekend - Wichita Thunder
- Oilers Go 1-0-1 To Open Up 2003-2004 Campaign - Tulsa Oilers
- Indy wins opener, 5-2 - OSC Original by Mike Wallin
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer(s), and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
