Moreland outdueled by Phoenix netminder in 2-1 Thunder loss

March 7, 2006 - ECHL (ECHL)
Stockton Thunder News Release


PHOENIX, Ariz. - The Stockton Thunder (10-34-11, 31 points) offensive efforts fell victim to a phenomenal night in net by Phoenix RoadRunners (19-34-3, 41 points) goaltender Mike Mole, who made 33 stops in a 2-1 Thunder loss to the RoadRunners before 4,134 at U.S. Airways Center on Tuesday.

Both teams battled to a scoreless draw in the first period, with Thunder goaltender Jake Moreland continuing his mastery of the RoadRunners with 17 saves in the frame, including a stop of multiple scoring chances on Phoenix's lone power play. Mole made six stops in the period.

The Thunder fell behind 1-0 in the second period on Adam Kostichka's power play goal, wristing a 20-foot shot from the left circle past Moreland, the RoadRunners' first goal in eight periods against the Thunder All-Star netminder. Mole continued his shutout through two periods with 19 total saves.

Stockton finally broke through in the third period with Kevin Gardner's power play goal at the 9:12 mark, deflecting in Geno Parrish's blast from the high slot. Brad Woods posted the game-winning marker only 2:16 later off a turnover in the Thunder end, when Justin Quenneville fed Woods in the slot for a one-timed goal.

The Thunder and Phoenix now sit at a four-game split in the season series.

The Thunder and RoadRunners face a re-match on Wednesday with a 6 p.m. PT faceoff at U.S. Airways Center. The game can be heard live on the internet (free-of-charge) and is available for viewing at a $6 "pay-per-view" rate at www.stocktonthunder.com, courtesy of B-2 Networks.

Thunder season tickets, individual tickets, and mini packages are on-sale now. Individual tickets can be purchased in person at Stockton Arena's Ticket Office, online at www.stocktontickets.com, or by phone at (209) 373-1700. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit www.stocktonthunder.com.



ECHL Stories from March 7, 2006


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