SF Bulls Lose Playoff Opener to Aces
April 6, 2013 - ECHL (ECHL)
San Francisco Bulls News Release
Bulls Lose Playoff Opener to Aces ANCHORAGE, Alaska - Kris Belan scored a shorthanded goal in the third period, but the San Francisco Bulls were defeated by the Alaska Aces, 5-1, in Game 1 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals, Friday night at Sullivan Arena. Game 2 of the best-of-seven series is tomorrow night in Alaska.
The Aces broke the ice at 8:48 of the first period after Garry Nunn scored from the right face-off circle to give Alaska the early lead. Nunn was set up on the play by Evan Trupp and Kane Lafranchise. The Bulls only power play of the period looked promising, but Gerald Coleman stood tall for the Aces in goal. Tensions boiled over in the first period after a few of the Aces ran into Thomas Heemskerk following a whistle. Captain Scott Langdon took exception, and dropped the gloves with Alex Hudson.
Alaska doubled their advantage to 2-0 at 2:35 of the second period. Bobby Hughes scored to extend the lead with the only assist going to Brad Gorham. With Christian Ouellet in the box for slashing, the Aces extended the lead to 3-0 at 4:24. Alexandre Imbeault scored on a wrist shot from the left face-off circle. Hughes and Steve Ward picked up the assists. Zach Harrison scored for the Aces to give Alaska a 4-0 lead with 4:36 remaining in the second period. Brett Ponich picked up the only assist on Harrison's goal. At this point, Taylor Nelson was brought into the game to replace Heemskerk.
Andy Taranto scored with 8:47 remaining in the third period to give the Aces a 5-0 lead. On the power play, Taranto tipped the puck past Nelson for his first goal of the playoffs. Imbeault and Corey Syvret assisted on the goal. San Francisco got on the board with 5:40 remaining in the third period. Belan broke away, and shot the puck over the glove of Coleman for the first playoff goal in San Francisco team history.
The Bulls return to action tomorrow night for Game 2 of the series against the Aces. The puck drops at 8:15 pm PT. Stop by Park 77 Bar for a watch party, beginning at 8 pm. The Bulls return home for Game 3 on Thursday at the Cow Palace at 7:15 pm PT. Get your tickets now at - 36 SFBulls.com or call 855-SF-BULLS.
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