Tough Start for Thunder
October 21, 2002 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Wichita Thunder News Release
FORT WORTH DROPS THUNDER- The Brahmas jumped out to a 4-0 lead, then hung on for a 4-2 victory Friday night at the Kansas Coliseum. The Thunder went just 1-10 on the power play, getting the lone tally from defenseman Vladimir Hartinger. Veteran Tom Gomes added a shorthanded goal as Wichita outshot Fort Worth 38-21. The loss dropped Wichita's all-time opening day record to 7-2-2.
AMARILLO STUNS THUNDER- Newcomer Henry Kuster practically did it himself, scoring four goals, as the Gorillas surprised the Thunder with a 5-3 victory on Saturday. Todd Johnson led the Thunder with a goal and an assist, while Tom Gomes scored his second shorthanded goal in as many nights. Newcomer Peter MacKellar also scored his first goal of the season, as the Thunder piled up 39 more shots on goal.
CLAYTON SET TO RETURN- All-Star center Travis Clayton resumed practice yesterday and is expected to return to the Thunder lineup on Friday. Clayton suffered a mild concussion after being elbowed by Fort Worth's Mike Tilson in the first period on Friday and did not return. He also sat out Saturday night as a precaution, leaving head coach Jim Latos to juggle his lines.
SEASON TICKETHOLDER PARTY- The Thunder will hold their annual season ticketholder party tomorrow night, Tuesday, at All Star Sports on West 21st Street. For just $5.00 per person, season ticketholders can hang out with the Thunder players and get unlimited miniature golf, go carts, driving range and laser tag from 6:00-8:00 PM. Food and beverages will also be provided and no RSVP is necessary.
NELSON TAKES "THUNDER 5" AT 81 SPEEDWAY- After a slow start, defenseman Chad Nelson (#3) blew away the field of four, winning the first ever five-lap, Thunder Hornet car race Sunday at 81 Speedway. Todd Johnson (#21B) finished a distant second, while Bob Rapoza (#11B) held off Jeff Leiter (#OX) for third place. Cars for the race were donated by Stoner's Body Shop in Valley Center, KS. Nelson, the 2-1 betting favorite, didn't disappoint the crowd of about 1000 people, coming away with a winning purse of $5.00.
THUNDERBOLTS- Team captain Jeff Leiter is second in the CHL with 29 penalty minutes...The Thunder are just 2-17 on the power play this season, but are a perfect 14-14 in penalty killing...The Thunder are fourth in the CHL averaging 38.5 shots per game...Wichita also ranks third in the CHL, averaging just 26.5 shots against...The Thunder will wear special Halloween Jerseys this Friday and next Wednesday versus Oklahoma City...The bidding will open on Friday and close on Wednesday, when the jerseys will be given away to the highest bidders.
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