'Runners Edge Jr. Blues in 1-0 Win
January 2, 2012 - North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Topeka Pilots News Release
The RoadRunners have historically returned from their Christmas break and struggled, going 2-4-1 in franchise history in that first game back. On Friday night in Landon Arena, this years squad made sure history didn't repeat itself, as Topeka used a solid defensive effort and some quality goaltending to post a 1-0 win over the Springfield Jr. Blues.
The last time Springfield visited Kansas, on Nov.19, the Jr. Blues blanked Topeka 4-0. Peter Traber absorbed the loss in that game, but avenged the defeat by turning aside all 18 shots he faced. The only goal of the game came on the power play in the first period at 18:43 when Linus Johansson tipped a Michal Pastor midpoint shot behind Jr. Blues goalie Connor Girard that clanged off the inside of both posts before settling in the back of the net. Luke Veitch was also credited with an assist on the play. Topeka outshot Springfield 10-5 in the first period.
The second period saw Topeka ramp up their effort, outshooting Springfield 13-5 in the frame but were stymied by Girard who played extremely well behind an inspired defensive effort in front of him. The 1-0 score stood through two periods. In the final frame, sparks flew as Mick Bruce fought with Jr. Blues captain Stewart Bell. Late in the period, with Topeka shorthanded, Springfield pulled Girard for the extra attacker but Traber and the RoadRunners weathered the attack, holding on to post a rare 1-0 win, just the fourth in RoadRunner history. The last one was April 23, 2009 when Bryce Merriam blanked St. Louis 1-0 in a double overtime game at home in Game 3 of the NAHL South Division Finals. The last regular season occurrence was January 27, 2007 in Santa Fe when Nick Hopper blanked Texas 1-0 in a shootout. All four 1-0 wins have come at home, while 3 losses by that margin have all occurred on the road.
Topeka (20-11-2) and Springfield (12-19-1) square off again on Saturday night at 6:05 in Landon Arena. Topeka has now won 6 of their last 7 and Springfield has dropped 4 straight.
• Discuss this story on the North American Hockey League message board...
North American Hockey League Stories from January 2, 2012
- Traber, 'Runners Blank Blues Again - Topeka Pilots
- 'Runners Edge Jr. Blues in 1-0 Win - Topeka Pilots
- Janesville Jets in First - Janesville Jets
- Tornado Weekly - Texas Tornado
- Stars Take Round 3 with 4-3 Win - Traverse City North Stars
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.
