'Runners win streak snapped at three
October 24, 2006 - North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Topeka Pilots News Release
[Santa Fe, NM] - For the second time this season, the Santa Fe Roadrunners were stopped just short of reaching four consecutive wins. (The franchise record is 5 wins, set in 2004-05).
The evening began festively, as the Roadrunners debuted their new 3rd jerseys. The sweaters feature a new Roadrunner logo on the chest, with the old one adorning the shoulders. The jerseys are brick red, with white numbers, trimmed in navy and a mustard gold that is a match to the New Mexico State Flag. Flanking the waist and forearms are Zia's, the sun symbol of the indigenous tribe that is seen in the state flag. The festivities were dampened as Santa Fe failed to score for the first 40 plus minutes. After falling behind 2-0 to the visiting Alaska Avalanche in Friday's game, the Roadrunners got on the board when Jason Krispel rocketed a shot in the top corner at 6:59. Defenseman Rafael Rodriguez tied the game with a powerplay goal at 13:50 when he spotted a shooting lane from the high slot and buried it for a 2-2 score. When Alaska killed off a penalty in the final minutes, the game appeared headed to overtime, but forward Ben Kinne backhanded a rebound into the net with just :15 seconds left in regulation for the 3-2 win. Nick Hopper turned aside 32 shots for the win.
On Saturday, the 'Runners seemed to start off well, with Ben Kinne scoring his 7th of the year at 6:11, tying a franchise record by scoring a goal in 4 straight games. (The record is held currently by Corey Stark.) But the resilient Avalanche squad managed 2 goals on 5 shots in the first to take a 2-1 lead. They took a 3-1 lead at 8:01 of the 2nd, chasing starting goalie Derek Brennan. Santa Fe closed the gap to 3-2 on Rafael Rodriguez' second goal of the season and the comeback seemed imminent. But the Avalanche were persistent, and extended their lead to 5-2. John Stoddard added a powerplay goal, but Avalanche goalie Adam Kraus was tremendous, turning aside 52 shots on the night for the 5-3 win.
The Roadrunners continue their 10-game homestand when the Fairbanks Ice Dogs return for a weekend set Nov.3rd and 4th.
NOTES: Forward Robert Capcara is heading back home to the Czech Republic where he will receive more playing time. "He's got some good skills, but as an '89 (birth year), he just won't be able to crack our lineup. He needs to play somewhere that will help his development", said assistant coach Mike Earhart.
North American Hockey League Stories from October 24, 2006
- North Stars' Nagorsen to WMU - Traverse City North Stars
- 'Runners win streak snapped at three - Topeka Pilots
- Moreland Named Player of the Week - Fargo-Moorhead Jets
- U.S. National Under-18 Team Takes On No. 14 Clarkson University and SUNY Plattsburgh - U.S. National Team
- Jarboe named Player of the Week - Alpena IceDiggers
- Wildcats Sweep Fairbanks in Weekend Series - Wichita Falls Wildcats
- Wildcats' efforts rewarded - NAHL
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