Myro hat trick sparks Jets comeback in first exhibition

Published on September 16, 2004 under North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Fargo-Moorhead Jets News Release


The Fargo-Moorhead Jets began their North American Hockey League preseason with a come-from-behind 4-3 win over the Billings Bulls last Friday night at the Moorhead Youth Arena.

Trailing 3-1 with 5:30 remaining in the second period, returning Jet Chris Myhro took command of the situation.

Myhro brought the Jets to within one with a tally at 14:52 of the second period as he raced up the left boards and cut up the goal line to beat Bulls' netminder Whit Whitacre.

Myhro then tied the game 2:12 into the third period and would give the Jets the eventual game winner at 8:03 of the final period.

Veteran Jets' goaltender Andy Stricker withstood a frenzied final two minutes from Billings to secure the victory. The Bulls pulled their goaltender in favor of an extra attacker with 1:50 remaining in the game, and used that man advantage to develop a couple of scoring opportunities.

Nonetheless, the Jets were able to hold on and send 350 fans in attendance home happy.

Tom Dickhudt gave the Jets a 1-0 lead 8:49 into the first period with a wrist shot from the left circle that beat starting Billings goaltender Jon Anderson for a power play goal.

However, Billings would score the next three unanswered goals. Sean Bertsch tied the game at 15:36 of the first period with a shot from the slot, which deflected off a Jets' defensemen's stick and over the shoulder of FM starting goalie Elliot Oakland.

Billings would take the lead with a pair of second period goals. Matt Hall at 6:39 and Gabe Harren at 14:30 of the second period gave Billings a 3-1 lead before Myhro's hat trick changed the complexion of the game.

Phil Fox and Brent Olson each added two assists in the win for the Jets. Meanwhile, Anthony Cosmano had two assists for the Bulls in the loss.

Fargo North High School student and Jets' rookie Elliot Oakland started in net for the Jets. Playing the first 32 minutes, he allowed three goals, but also had a few nice saves in his first Junior A hockey action.

Overall, the game was characterized by numerous penalties, which resulted in many power play opportunities for both sides. However, each team struggled with their power play unit, as is usual during the preseason. Billings finished 0-for-9 on the power play, while the Jets went 1-for-8.

The Jets start their 2004-05 regular season on Saturday, September 18, at Bismarck, and play their home opener on October 8, also vs. Bismarck, at the John E. Carlson Coliseum. For ticket information, fans may call 701-235-2354 or visit the Jets official website. All Jets games are broadcasted on STAR 103.9.

Jets' head coach Todd Knott and the 2004-05 players will lead a youth pre-season hockey skills clinic from September 27-October 1, at the Fargo SW Arena.

The clinic will be split into two different age groups. The "Intermediate" group (7-10 year olds) will skate from 6-7:30 p.m. nightly. Meanwhile, the "Advanced" group (11-13 year olds) will skate from 7:45-9:15 p.m.

Both groups will cover all of the hockey basics, including skating, stick handling and shooting. Goaltenders are also encouraged to sign-up.

The total cost is $85 per player.

"It truly is one of the more affordable clinics that are out there for young hockey players in this area" said Knott. "All of my players attended camps when they were younger...it's a must if a child dreams of being a college or pro player."

Parents may sign their child up by calling the Jets' office at 701-235-2354.

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North American Hockey League Stories from September 16, 2004


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