Louisiana Loses in Knoxville
January 8, 2011 - SPHL (SPHL)
Louisiana IceGators News Release
LAFAYETTE, LA - The Louisiana IceGators (7-26) came into Saturday's game looking to end the losing streak, which had reached 16 games. They took to the ice tonight against the Knoxville IceBears (14-14). In the previous match-up, the 'Gators allowed a goal in the final minute of the game and lost 4-3. Tonight the IceGators battled back after falling behind early but still fell to the IceBears 4-2.
The first period began differently than last night's first period. Last night the two teams combined for six goals but tonight only one goal was scored. Tonight the IceBears began the period on the attack. In fact, in the first ten minutes Knoxville outshot the 'Gators 8-3 and had a stretch of six unanswered shots on goal. With 10:14 left in the period, Eric Slais (KNX) his fifth goal of the season and put the IceBears up 1-0.
The second period was full of fireworks. Less than 30 seconds into the period David Segal (KNX) and Eric Tallent (LOU) were called for fighting. Things would calm down and the teams returned to playing hockey. Mike Tuomi (KNX) scored the IceBears second goal of the game with 14:38 left in the period. Knoxville then added another goal about four minutes later when Mark Van Vliet (KNX) pushed the puck past Scott Darling (LOU). With the 'Gators trailing 3-0, Dan Buccella (KNX) and Darling were called for fighting. The 'Gators finally got on the board 27 seconds after the fight when Dennis Sicard (LOU) got the first goal on Bryan Hince (KNX), Knoxville's goalie, in four periods of action.
The 'Gators opened the third period trailing 3-1 and needing to put pressure on the IceBears quickly. The 'Gators put the pressure on early getting seven of the first eight shots on goal in the period and forced Knoxville to make the first mistake of the period. Jim Jensen (KNX) was called for hooking with 11:20 left in the game. Less than a minute later Sicard scored his second goal of the game and cut the Knoxville lead to one goal. With 2:43 remaining Van Vliet was called for delay of game and the 'Gators went on a power play. However, the IceGators were unable to capitalize on the power play. The IceBears added an empty net goal by Frank Furdero (KNX) with eight seconds left in the game to win 4-2.
"When you get yourself in a hole early it takes everything out of you to come back," replied IceGators Head Coach Kevin Kaminski after losing to the IceBears. "We showed a lot of character by not giving up after falling behind, but you can't let yourself get in an early hole."
The 'Gators return home on Thursday, January 13 for the first of five home games in a row. The game on Thursday will be against the Mississippi Surge and fans that attend the game will be given a complimentary ticket for Saturday's game against Columbus. In addition to the complimentary ticket, fans will also get to enjoy $2.00 beer night. On Friday, January 14th, Louisiana takes on Columbus and will be wearing special theme night jerseys sponsored by Coushatta Casino Resort. After the game fans are encouraged to join the players and dance team at WOW for a chance to bid on the players' jerseys. Don't miss your chance to bring a group to the game and take advantage of the 10 for 10 program. Groups of 10 can purchase tickets for $10. Call (337) 704-4423 for great season ticket and mini package opportunities, as well as the 10 for 10 program.
SPHL Stories from January 8, 2011
- Yonkman Stops the RiverHawks - Augusta RiverHawks
- Ice Bears Perfect In Weekend Series - Knoxville Ice Bears
- Louisiana Loses in Knoxville - Louisiana IceGators
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
