OHL Erie Otters

Otters Dominate Whalers in 5-1 Win

Published on March 11, 2011 under Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Erie Otters News Release


The Erie Otters (37-26-1-1) made life difficult for the visiting Plymouth Whalers as the home team outhustled their competitors in a 5-1 win Friday night at Tullio Arena, putting the Otters over the Whalers by a point for fifth place in the Western Conference.

It just took 12 seconds for the Otters to strike on the power play and grab a 1-0 lead at 7:25. Greg McKegg blasted a shot from the high slot through traffic and Whalers goaltender Matt Mahalak for his team-leading 47th goal of the season, putting him in sole possession of second place on Erie's single-season scoring list, behind Cory Pecker (53 in 2001-02).

One minute and 26 seconds later, Brett Thompson forced a turnover in the high slot of the Whalers zone and set up Phil Varone at the right circle, where the overager ripped a shot through the glove of Mahalak for his 31st goal of the season. Malahak's night was over after giving up two goals on four shots.

Anthony Luciani sacrificed his body to give the Otters a 3-0 lead. The speedy winger dove for the puck as netminder Scott Wedgewood made a play for it at the left circle, Luciani tapped the loose puck into the net and took a few sticks in the face as he collided with the side of the net.

Brett Thompson scored on a rebound in the final minute of the second period to give the Otters a four-goal advantage going into the third. Thompson added his second of the game early in the third as he stole the puck from Dario Trutmann in front of the crease and shot it through a surprised Wedgewood.

Ramis Sadikov, making his first start since leaving the game on Feb. 19, was sharp in net, but saw his shutout bid end with 7:33 remaining in regulation. He made 22 saves in his return to the net, as the Otters outshot the Whalers, 43-23.

Saturday night at 7:00 p.m., the Kitchener Rangers are in town for Fan Appreciation Night. The first 500 fans will receive a drawstring cinch backpack. There will be great giveaways and prizes throughout the night, headlined by a $500 gas card to Travel Centers of America. Following the game, there is a concert with The O'Needers. Fan Appreciation Night is sponsored by O'Charley's, Panera Bread, Greenfield Basket Factory, Iron Workers Local Union No. 3 and Erie General Electric Credit Union.

Individual tickets for the 2011 OHL Playoffs are now on sale. Playoff dates and opponents are yet to be determined. Tickets can be ordered through Ticketmaster, the Civic Center Box Office, online at ottershockey.com or by calling 814-452-4857.

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Ontario Hockey League Stories from March 11, 2011


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