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VIP Cup Hanging in the Balance as Pirates Face Manchester

March 29, 2013 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Portland Pirates News Release


Portland, ME - The Portland Pirates look to end a 3 game skid against the Manchester Monarchs tonight at the Cumberland County Civic Center. Portland looks to deny Manchester the first ever VIP Cup, presented by VIP Parts, Tires and Service, while shoring up their playoff footing. A Manchester win in regulation gives the Monarchs the VIP Cup win, while a Pirates victory or defeat in extra time forces a deciding game 12 in Manchester on April 5th.

The Pirates are coming off a tough 3-2 loss at home against the division rival Providence Bruins on Wednesday. Providence rookie goaltender Niklas Svedberg was solid in net, saving 30 of the 32 shots he faced. Forwards Ethan Werek and Jordan Martinook tallied the goals for the Pirates while goaltender Mike Lee made 36 saves on 39 shots he faced.

The Manchester Monarchs were victorious in their last game, defeating the Worcester Sharks on their home ice 3-1 on Wednesday night. Manchester had production throughout their line up with nine different players contributing with a goal or assist. Monarchs' goaltender Martin Jones was on top of his game, stopping 40 of the 41 shots he faced.

The last meeting between the Pirates and Monarchs was decided in overtime. Manchester's Tyler Toffoli, who was recently called up to the LA Kings, tied the game for Manchester in the 3rd period with a shorthanded goal to force the game into extra time. The Monarchs came out victorious with the game winning goal coming from Manchester forward Stefan Legein, just under three minutes into the overtime period.

Tonight's game can be heard on 95.5 and 95.9 WPEI in the Portland area, 92.7FM and 100.7 FM WOXO FM in the Lewiston/Auburn area, and online on portlandpiratesradio.com and AHL Live. The pregame show starts at 6:40 with Jeff Mannix.

Tickets are still available by calling (207) 828-4665 ext. 350 or online at ticketmaster.com.

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