USHL Youngstown Phantoms

Phantoms Drop Pre-Season Debut 7-2 Against Team USA

Published on September 16, 2011 under United States Hockey League (USHL)
Youngstown Phantoms News Release


Ann Arbor, MI - Special teams was the theme of the night as the Youngstown Phantoms were defeated in their first pre-season game of the year 7-2 by Team USA at the Ice Cube.

In an action-filled first period, the two teams exchanged shots and power play opportunities. With Team USA peppering Phantoms goaltender Matt O'Connor with 14 shots, Frankie Vatrano was able to capitalize on a man-advantage situation at the 9:58 mark. The Phantoms had two of their own power play chances, but none of their eight shots found the back of the net.

The special teams of both squads were on display in the second period. Less than two minutes into play, Vatrano struck again - this time shorthanded - to give Team USA a 2-0 lead, but it was to be short lived. Returning skater Mike Ambrosia notched an unassisted power play goal at 3:13 to bring the game back within reach for the Phantoms. Team USA found the back of the net four more times over the course of the frame, including three goals on the power play. Stephen Collins tallied the Phantoms second unassisted goal of the game at 17:51, getting the puck past Collin Olson, who had replaced starting goalie Jared Rutledge after 30 minutes of play. At the end of the second, shots favored the home team 25-18.

While the third period began with a much less torrid pace than the previous stanzas, Team USA continued to showcase their ability on special teams. Seth Jones had a shorthanded tally at 12:31, growing the USA lead to five. The Phantoms were outshot 8 to 10 in the third, and 35-26 overall.

"We faced a team that has been together for more than a year and appeared to be in midseason form," said Phantoms Head Coach Anthony Noreen. "We're not at that point yet, but that's what the pre-season is for. We can utilize this game as a learning tool. We will not judge our pre-season games on the scoreboard, we'll judge them on whether or not we stick to our process and learn from our mistakes."

The Phantoms finished the night 1 of 6 on the power play and 3 of 6 on the penalty kill. O'Connor was 28 of 35 in net.

The Phantoms next head to Ludington, Michigan, for a 7:00 p.m. game against the Muskegon Lumberjacks tomorrow. Youngstown's pre-season schedule continues next week in Sioux City, Iowa, for the annual Fall Classic.

Single game tickets for the 2011-12 season are on sale now. Season ticket plans start at the low price of just $90. Call the Phantoms office today at 330.747.7825 for more information or to make a reservation today! For a complete Phantoms schedule, visit www.youngstownphantoms.com.

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United States Hockey League Stories from September 16, 2011


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