Devils 2, Stars 3 - SO Final
Coming off a victory over the Coventry Blaze last night, the Cardiff Devils were ready to face the Dundee Stars. Hoping for a four point weekend, the boys were raring for a good game and a good result.
The teams came out fighting. Not only were both teams sent to the box for several minor indiscretions, such as holding, slashing, etc, power-forward Max Birbraer managed to get himself a ten-minute misconduct (19:58). With all the power-plays going, someone was sure to put the puck in the back of the net. Unfortunately for the Red Army, it was the Stars that managed to capitalize on the man advantage. At 12:05, Brennan Turner, who saw more of the penalty box than the ice the last time these two teams met last week, shot the puck passed Stevie Lyle, scoring the only goal of the period.
The intense play continued through into the second period. With more penalties being handed out, it was rare that either team at a full five players on the ice at any one time. In addition to the penalties, Brennan Turner also extended the Stars lead to two (30:02). Desperate to remain in the game, the Devils fought back and Scott Matzka managed to get one in the back of the net (39:54). Both teams continued to try and get another goal before the end of the period, but all that was awarded was a ten-minute misconduct for Chris Frank. End of second period, 2-1 Stars.
Into the third and the Devils were desperate to level the score. So desperate in fact, that it only took 42 seconds for Scott Matzka to find his way through Dundee's defense and put the puck in the back of the net. With the score level, both teams were determined to get the next goal. Throughout their fight to get the goal, Chris Frank got himself a holding minor, plus a Game for abuse of official; Hutchins and Dobben also got minor penalties. The powerplays did not help either team and the period finished 2-2. The Stars go into the OT period with 1:53 powerplay time, as Dobben was sent to the box at 59:53.
Despite the eagerness both teams had to put rubber in the net, neither team succeeded in scoring the OT goal, so the game went to shootout. First up, Max Birbraer misses, but his Dundee counterpart, Brent Hughes scores. Devils' next shooter Scott Matzka also misses. Much to the disappointment of the Devils, the next Star shooter, Lee Mitchell, scores, and Dundee wins.
Devils' next game is on Saturday, against the Nottingham Panthers, at the BBT. Make sure you're there supporting the boys! Let's Go Devils!
Sunday 30 October 2011
Cardiff Devils vs Coventry Blaze (CC) 29/10/11
Devils 6, Blaze 1 - Final
It's Saturday night and the Cardiff Devils welcome the Coventry Blaze to the BBT tonight. As we all know, Devils/Blaze match-ups are always interesting, and this one didn't disappoint! Seven goals throughout the sixty minutes, plus a whole load of penalties, everyone in the BBT was buzzing.
The action was non-stop from the beginning. With the penalties coming thick and fast, the penalty units for both teams had to keep their heads up. The Devils' penalty kill had a great night, not letting Coventry score any powerplay goals. Instead, the Devils first goal, scored by Brad Voth, was a powerplay goal (7:27)! During the first, Coventry also managed to get one on the board, but were unsuccessful in stopping Man of the Match Jeff Pierce from scoring his first of the night. The score at the end of the first was 2-1 Cardiff.
The second was a bit quieter than the first, with only a couple of penalties and only goal. Although, it is said that the goal that put Cardiff two goals ahead, is a contender for the goal of the year, with MOM Jeff Pierce doing a full 360 degree turn before depositing the puck in the back of the net. Goal scored at 28:29, with the help of Adams and Frank. End of Second, 3-1 Devils.
Finally, it was time for the last twenty minutes. Just like when they played Dundee last Saturday, Cardiff did not slow their work effort, just because they were in front. Although the boys didn't score five goals in the last period, they did manage three, securing a 6-1 victory. The first of the three came from captain Stuart MacRae (49:02), followed by Kenton Smith with his first of the season (56:34). The final Devils' goal was scored by assistant coach Scott Matzka (58:47), rounding off the scoring and bringing in those much needed two points. With a win under the belts, the Devils go second in their CC group, four points behind Nottingham with a game in hand.
Be sure to follow the boys when they play in Dundee tomorrow night! If you can't get up to Scotland, then be sure to follow the MNL (http://www.the-inferno.co.uk/mnl/) for all the news from the Devils. Let's Go Devils!
It's Saturday night and the Cardiff Devils welcome the Coventry Blaze to the BBT tonight. As we all know, Devils/Blaze match-ups are always interesting, and this one didn't disappoint! Seven goals throughout the sixty minutes, plus a whole load of penalties, everyone in the BBT was buzzing.
The action was non-stop from the beginning. With the penalties coming thick and fast, the penalty units for both teams had to keep their heads up. The Devils' penalty kill had a great night, not letting Coventry score any powerplay goals. Instead, the Devils first goal, scored by Brad Voth, was a powerplay goal (7:27)! During the first, Coventry also managed to get one on the board, but were unsuccessful in stopping Man of the Match Jeff Pierce from scoring his first of the night. The score at the end of the first was 2-1 Cardiff.
The second was a bit quieter than the first, with only a couple of penalties and only goal. Although, it is said that the goal that put Cardiff two goals ahead, is a contender for the goal of the year, with MOM Jeff Pierce doing a full 360 degree turn before depositing the puck in the back of the net. Goal scored at 28:29, with the help of Adams and Frank. End of Second, 3-1 Devils.
Finally, it was time for the last twenty minutes. Just like when they played Dundee last Saturday, Cardiff did not slow their work effort, just because they were in front. Although the boys didn't score five goals in the last period, they did manage three, securing a 6-1 victory. The first of the three came from captain Stuart MacRae (49:02), followed by Kenton Smith with his first of the season (56:34). The final Devils' goal was scored by assistant coach Scott Matzka (58:47), rounding off the scoring and bringing in those much needed two points. With a win under the belts, the Devils go second in their CC group, four points behind Nottingham with a game in hand.
Be sure to follow the boys when they play in Dundee tomorrow night! If you can't get up to Scotland, then be sure to follow the MNL (http://www.the-inferno.co.uk/mnl/) for all the news from the Devils. Let's Go Devils!
Tuesday 25 October 2011
Cardiff Devils @ Sheffield Steelers (CC) 23/10/11
Devils 3, Steelers 5 - Final
Despite the crushing victory over the Dundee Stars the previous night, the Cardiff Devils lost out to the Sheffield Steelers in their most recent Challenge Cup match-up. With Captain Stuart MacRae and defensemen Mark Smith still missing from the line-up, the Devils ended up on the wrong side of a 5-3 final score.
The first period saw a variety of penalties, including a 2 + 10 received by Chris Frank for a check from behind. We also saw a goal from Max Birbraer (04:12), countered by two from Sheffield. The first came from Jeff Legue (06:49) and the second from MOM Colt King (14:11).
The second saw two goals for each side, with the score going up to 4-3 Sheffield. The first goal of the period came from Lee Esders (24:33). Obviously not liking the fact that Sheffield now had a two goal lead, the Devils rallied to score, with Scott Dobben putting one away, unassisted (32:25). Jeff Legue put the difference back to two with his second of the night and Brad Voth added Cardiff's third (38:48) to finish the period 4-3 Steelers.
Despite the Devils' best efforts they couldn't get the puck behind DeCaro in the third, and, with Colt King scoring his second of the night (58:22), the Steelers secured a win, final score 5-3.
Make sure you get your tickets for this Saturday's match-up at the BBT, when the Coventry Blaze come to town. When the Devils and the Blaze met last, in the Sky Dome, the Devils came away with a 2-0 win. Get down to the BBT and see if they can do it again. Let's Go Devils!
Despite the crushing victory over the Dundee Stars the previous night, the Cardiff Devils lost out to the Sheffield Steelers in their most recent Challenge Cup match-up. With Captain Stuart MacRae and defensemen Mark Smith still missing from the line-up, the Devils ended up on the wrong side of a 5-3 final score.
The first period saw a variety of penalties, including a 2 + 10 received by Chris Frank for a check from behind. We also saw a goal from Max Birbraer (04:12), countered by two from Sheffield. The first came from Jeff Legue (06:49) and the second from MOM Colt King (14:11).
The second saw two goals for each side, with the score going up to 4-3 Sheffield. The first goal of the period came from Lee Esders (24:33). Obviously not liking the fact that Sheffield now had a two goal lead, the Devils rallied to score, with Scott Dobben putting one away, unassisted (32:25). Jeff Legue put the difference back to two with his second of the night and Brad Voth added Cardiff's third (38:48) to finish the period 4-3 Steelers.
Despite the Devils' best efforts they couldn't get the puck behind DeCaro in the third, and, with Colt King scoring his second of the night (58:22), the Steelers secured a win, final score 5-3.
Make sure you get your tickets for this Saturday's match-up at the BBT, when the Coventry Blaze come to town. When the Devils and the Blaze met last, in the Sky Dome, the Devils came away with a 2-0 win. Get down to the BBT and see if they can do it again. Let's Go Devils!
Cardiff Devils vs Dundee Stars 22/10/11
Devils 7, Stars 3 - Final
Looks like the Cardiff Devils have seen the (goal) light and showed the Dundee Stars what hockey players are made of in Cardiff. With a collective total of ten goals throughout the sixty minutes, plus a certain giant's first fight of the season, the BBT was the place to be on Saturday night.
During the first we saw the first of the seven Devils' goals, coming from Man of the Match Max Birbraer, from Davies and Pierce (19:19). Also throughout the first, we saw the Stars hit the penalty box three times, Turner for slashing, Wishart for hooking and Zarb with a 2 + 10 for a check from behind.
Moving into the second and it was double time! Double the amount of goals and double the amount of penalties. Included in those penalties were Gerad Adams and Brennan Turner, who dropped the gloves at 22:07. The action died down for a bit, before Jeff Pierce lit the lamp, doubling the Devils' lead (35:07). The Stars managed to bring the difference back to one, after Dan Ceman put one on the board (38:10).
Now the third is where it gets really interesting. This time last week, the Devils let it slip, at home, in the third, with Belfast finishing the game 6-2. This week it was a completely different story. Five goals in twenty minutes! The first, giving the Devils a 3-1 lead, came from Jeff Pierce (40:34). MOM Max Birbraer made it 4-1 when he scored on a penalty shot (46:14). With the Devils already 4-1 up, Pierce made the night even better when he got his hat-trick, making it 5-1. AJ McLean got one in for Dundee, making it 5-2, but Tim Burrows and Luke Piggot cemented the Devils' win with one each.
With the Devils' scoring finished it was time for one last piece of action. At 56:51, Canadian giant Brad Voth dropped the gloves for the first time this season, going against Brennan Turner, who was given a game penalty after receiving two majors in one game (after a fight with Adams in the second). Voth also received a 2-minute minor for boarding and 2 + 10 for instigating.
In the dying minutes of the game, Dundee made a last ditch attempt, with Alan Matur giving the Stars their third goal, but the game finished 7-3.
Looks like the Cardiff Devils have seen the (goal) light and showed the Dundee Stars what hockey players are made of in Cardiff. With a collective total of ten goals throughout the sixty minutes, plus a certain giant's first fight of the season, the BBT was the place to be on Saturday night.
During the first we saw the first of the seven Devils' goals, coming from Man of the Match Max Birbraer, from Davies and Pierce (19:19). Also throughout the first, we saw the Stars hit the penalty box three times, Turner for slashing, Wishart for hooking and Zarb with a 2 + 10 for a check from behind.
Moving into the second and it was double time! Double the amount of goals and double the amount of penalties. Included in those penalties were Gerad Adams and Brennan Turner, who dropped the gloves at 22:07. The action died down for a bit, before Jeff Pierce lit the lamp, doubling the Devils' lead (35:07). The Stars managed to bring the difference back to one, after Dan Ceman put one on the board (38:10).
Now the third is where it gets really interesting. This time last week, the Devils let it slip, at home, in the third, with Belfast finishing the game 6-2. This week it was a completely different story. Five goals in twenty minutes! The first, giving the Devils a 3-1 lead, came from Jeff Pierce (40:34). MOM Max Birbraer made it 4-1 when he scored on a penalty shot (46:14). With the Devils already 4-1 up, Pierce made the night even better when he got his hat-trick, making it 5-1. AJ McLean got one in for Dundee, making it 5-2, but Tim Burrows and Luke Piggot cemented the Devils' win with one each.
With the Devils' scoring finished it was time for one last piece of action. At 56:51, Canadian giant Brad Voth dropped the gloves for the first time this season, going against Brennan Turner, who was given a game penalty after receiving two majors in one game (after a fight with Adams in the second). Voth also received a 2-minute minor for boarding and 2 + 10 for instigating.
In the dying minutes of the game, Dundee made a last ditch attempt, with Alan Matur giving the Stars their third goal, but the game finished 7-3.
Sunday 16 October 2011
Hereford United vs Stockport County 15/01/11
Hereford 3, Stockport 0 - Final
After a long and difficult season, Hereford United have finally given their fans something to cheer about; their first home win of the season. After three successful away wins, Hereford continue their streak on home turf, in front of a home crowd of 3154 (including 334 away supporters).
If you weren't there, you will be kicking yourself. For most of the ninety minute game, the Bulls dominated. There was excitement from start to finish... literally. Three minutes in, Hereford were on the offensive. Stuart Fleetwood, who worked hard from the start of the match until he was subbed in the 89th minutes (for Bauza), crossed the ball from the right, hoping on of the Bull's forwards wold got a foot on it. Instead, Andy Hall, a Stockport defender, put it in the back of the net - even though he wasn't being pressured and could have left it. 1-0 Hereford.
Playing up front for Hereford were Mathieu 'Beast' Manset and Stuart Fleetwood. In their last fifteen games, the pair had managed an impressive twenty goals and were hoping to increase that number against Stockport. The tally went up to twenty-one in the 26th minute, when the Beast put a powerful shot in the back of the net... increasing Hereford's lead to 2-0.
Hereford had a chance to increase that lead further, when McQuilkin received a free kick, due to a foul from Stephen Husbands (who was sent off after two yellow cards). Unfortunately, the ball skimmed over the bar, the score remaining 2-0. But Stockport were now down to ten men and with a strong wind against them, they were going to struggle in the second half.
As predicted, Stockport struggled, failing to capitalize on any of the chances they were given. Manset, who received the Man of Match award, also had several chances in the second half, but failed to succeed, and was substituted in favor of Canham in the 76th minute. Exhausted from the amount of effort used in an amazing display of football (one which deserved the Man of the Match award if Manset hadn't been on the pitch), Stuart Fleetwood followed, in the 84th minute, being replaced by Bauza.
Although having only been on the pitch for a matter of minutes, and with only five minutes left on the clock, Bauza made his presence known by extending Hereford's lead to 3-0. The Bulls managed to hand on for the final minutes, finishing the game with a final score of 3-0
Cardiff Devils vs Belfast Giants 15/10/11
Devils 2, Giants 6 - Final
It's hockey night in the BBT and the Giants are in town to take on your Cardiff Devils! Coming off a three point weekend, the Devils were looking to add those precious two points to their tally. Unfortunately, as he is still recovering from an injury sustained in training, Mark Smith did not ice for the Devils, and the Giants were missing Brock McBride and Jeremy Rebek, although former-Devils Jon Pelle did ice for the Giants.
This was the second meeting in Cardiff for these two teams, with the first ending in a 4-3 shootout victory for the visitors, and they were ready and raring to go at the beginning of this rematch. So ready in fact, that player/assistant coach Scott Matzka and Giants' forward Derek LeBlanc got up close and personally before the puck was even dropped; no penalties came from the game of handbags. Devils' captain got the game going with a delay of game penalty just before the minute mark, but the Devils managed to kill the penalty. After about five minute of 'good feisty' play, with chances coming for both sides, Devils' power-forward Phil Hill was sent to the box for a holding penalty. The Giants capitalized on the man-advantage, a powerplay goal being scored by former-Devil Jon Pelle. It isn't until about ten minutes when the Devils equalize with a goal from Canadian Brad Voth. End of first period, 1-1.
Second period, and it started with a bang. Thirty-four seconds, Jon Pelle added his second goal of the night, doubling the Giants' lead. The Devils were desperate to level the score, taking shot after shot, but not being able to capitalize. Half way through the period, the Giants were awarded a penalty shot, due to goaltender interference, which was saved by Stevie Lyle. The action then went up the ice, and the Devils scored the equalizing goal, coming off Scott Dobben's stick. But, luck just wasn't on the Devils' side tonight, as the Giants managed to put two more behind Lyle before the period was over, the first coming from Jeff Mason and the other giving Jon Pelle his hat-trick. Second period ended 4-2 Giants. The third saw two more Giants' goals, from LeBlanc and Keefe and a range of minor penalties. Final score 6-2 Giants.
The next home game is on Saturday, against Dundee, FO at 7pm. Get down to the BBT and cheer the boys on! Let's Go Devils!
It's hockey night in the BBT and the Giants are in town to take on your Cardiff Devils! Coming off a three point weekend, the Devils were looking to add those precious two points to their tally. Unfortunately, as he is still recovering from an injury sustained in training, Mark Smith did not ice for the Devils, and the Giants were missing Brock McBride and Jeremy Rebek, although former-Devils Jon Pelle did ice for the Giants.
This was the second meeting in Cardiff for these two teams, with the first ending in a 4-3 shootout victory for the visitors, and they were ready and raring to go at the beginning of this rematch. So ready in fact, that player/assistant coach Scott Matzka and Giants' forward Derek LeBlanc got up close and personally before the puck was even dropped; no penalties came from the game of handbags. Devils' captain got the game going with a delay of game penalty just before the minute mark, but the Devils managed to kill the penalty. After about five minute of 'good feisty' play, with chances coming for both sides, Devils' power-forward Phil Hill was sent to the box for a holding penalty. The Giants capitalized on the man-advantage, a powerplay goal being scored by former-Devil Jon Pelle. It isn't until about ten minutes when the Devils equalize with a goal from Canadian Brad Voth. End of first period, 1-1.
Second period, and it started with a bang. Thirty-four seconds, Jon Pelle added his second goal of the night, doubling the Giants' lead. The Devils were desperate to level the score, taking shot after shot, but not being able to capitalize. Half way through the period, the Giants were awarded a penalty shot, due to goaltender interference, which was saved by Stevie Lyle. The action then went up the ice, and the Devils scored the equalizing goal, coming off Scott Dobben's stick. But, luck just wasn't on the Devils' side tonight, as the Giants managed to put two more behind Lyle before the period was over, the first coming from Jeff Mason and the other giving Jon Pelle his hat-trick. Second period ended 4-2 Giants. The third saw two more Giants' goals, from LeBlanc and Keefe and a range of minor penalties. Final score 6-2 Giants.
The next home game is on Saturday, against Dundee, FO at 7pm. Get down to the BBT and cheer the boys on! Let's Go Devils!
Sunday 9 October 2011
Cardiff Devils vs Sheffield Steelers 09/10/11
Devils 2, Steelers 3 - SO Final
Back in Cardiff tonight and the Devils welcome former Devils Ryan Finnerty and the Sheffield Steelers into the BBT. The last time the Steelers were in town, Cardiff managed a 4-0 win, but, on the return trip the next day, lost out on a four point weekend with a 5-3 defeat. Everyone was hoping for a repeat of the first game!
Throughout the first period, both Stevie Lyle and John DeCaro saw their fair share of shots. Devils' 93, Jeff Pierce, was just one of the many attempting to best DeCaro but he was having none of it. It seemed like our own Stevie Lyle had adopted the same attitude, having no trouble holding the Steelers at bay. The first twenty saw several penalties, three for each side. Sheffield were penalized for two hooking calls, and a diving call, the last one aimed at ex-Devils' captain Ryan Finnerty. Cardiff were shorthanded due to a controversial interference call, as well as charging and cross-checking. Despite the Steelers apparently getting one in the back of the net, the period ended 0-0, as Darnell waves off the only 'goal' of the period.
The second period was slightly more eventful. Although there were half as many penalties, the scoreboard was lit up three times throughout the twenty minutes. The first, both of the game and for the Steelers, came from Rodney Sarich, from Tait and Ramsay, who is usually a thorn in the Devils' sides. The second, following shortly after, was also a Steelers' goal, came from Lee Esders, assists going to Tait and Finnerty. Finally, the Devils managed to get their first goal of the night, coming from Phil Hill, who also scored the first goal in last night's win over Fife, with help from Adams. This goal came as a result of an increase in the intensity of play by the Devils, after Player/Coach Gerad Adams called a time out, obviously being disappointed in the play. It seemed like the pep-talk worked the magic intended as the Devils were a different side. Unfortunately, DeCaro held strong for the final minutes of the second and the period finished 2-1 Steelers.
Time for the third period and the Devils were determined to level the score. After nearly a whole period's hard work and determination, Scott Dobben managed to score the equalizer. With many penalties being called as well, it was an interesting period. Despite many attempts on goal, for both teams, and the goal light being lit several times behind DeCaro, the period ended 2-2, as Darnell waved several 'goals'.
Into overtime and the play was just as intense. Frank got himself a 5+game for slashing at Finnerty. It was said that Finnerty made a comment to cause Frank to lash out; it must have been something major considering the reaction. Neither could finish the game, even though Sheffield had the advantage and the game went to shootout.
Up for Cardiff were Birbraer, Pierce and MacRae, who all missed their shots. Up for Sheffield were Ramsay and Birnstill. Birnstill missed his shot but Ramsay scored his second, meaning that Birbraer would have to score his second to keep the Devils in the game. Unfortunately Max missed and the Devils lost. Final score 3-2 Steelers.
Next game at the BBT is on Saturday, against the Belfast Giants. FO is at 7pm, don't be late to watch the Devils take on former Devils Jon Pelle and the Giants! Let's Go Devils!
Back in Cardiff tonight and the Devils welcome former Devils Ryan Finnerty and the Sheffield Steelers into the BBT. The last time the Steelers were in town, Cardiff managed a 4-0 win, but, on the return trip the next day, lost out on a four point weekend with a 5-3 defeat. Everyone was hoping for a repeat of the first game!
Throughout the first period, both Stevie Lyle and John DeCaro saw their fair share of shots. Devils' 93, Jeff Pierce, was just one of the many attempting to best DeCaro but he was having none of it. It seemed like our own Stevie Lyle had adopted the same attitude, having no trouble holding the Steelers at bay. The first twenty saw several penalties, three for each side. Sheffield were penalized for two hooking calls, and a diving call, the last one aimed at ex-Devils' captain Ryan Finnerty. Cardiff were shorthanded due to a controversial interference call, as well as charging and cross-checking. Despite the Steelers apparently getting one in the back of the net, the period ended 0-0, as Darnell waves off the only 'goal' of the period.
The second period was slightly more eventful. Although there were half as many penalties, the scoreboard was lit up three times throughout the twenty minutes. The first, both of the game and for the Steelers, came from Rodney Sarich, from Tait and Ramsay, who is usually a thorn in the Devils' sides. The second, following shortly after, was also a Steelers' goal, came from Lee Esders, assists going to Tait and Finnerty. Finally, the Devils managed to get their first goal of the night, coming from Phil Hill, who also scored the first goal in last night's win over Fife, with help from Adams. This goal came as a result of an increase in the intensity of play by the Devils, after Player/Coach Gerad Adams called a time out, obviously being disappointed in the play. It seemed like the pep-talk worked the magic intended as the Devils were a different side. Unfortunately, DeCaro held strong for the final minutes of the second and the period finished 2-1 Steelers.
Time for the third period and the Devils were determined to level the score. After nearly a whole period's hard work and determination, Scott Dobben managed to score the equalizer. With many penalties being called as well, it was an interesting period. Despite many attempts on goal, for both teams, and the goal light being lit several times behind DeCaro, the period ended 2-2, as Darnell waved several 'goals'.
Into overtime and the play was just as intense. Frank got himself a 5+game for slashing at Finnerty. It was said that Finnerty made a comment to cause Frank to lash out; it must have been something major considering the reaction. Neither could finish the game, even though Sheffield had the advantage and the game went to shootout.
Up for Cardiff were Birbraer, Pierce and MacRae, who all missed their shots. Up for Sheffield were Ramsay and Birnstill. Birnstill missed his shot but Ramsay scored his second, meaning that Birbraer would have to score his second to keep the Devils in the game. Unfortunately Max missed and the Devils lost. Final score 3-2 Steelers.
Next game at the BBT is on Saturday, against the Belfast Giants. FO is at 7pm, don't be late to watch the Devils take on former Devils Jon Pelle and the Giants! Let's Go Devils!
Saturday 8 October 2011
Cardiff Devils @ Fife Flyers 08/10/11
Devils 3, Flyers 1 - End of Second
Just like last Saturday, the Cardiff Devils traveled up to Scotland, this time ready to face the Fife Flyers. After a not so successful trip last weekend, everyone was hoping that tonight would be different. Missing from the Devils' line-up tonight is Canadian defensemen Mark Smith, with Scott Makza back in the line-up after missing the Devils' win over the Braehead Clan on Sunday, in the BBT. Flyers missing starting goaltender Garrett Zemlak, and defensemen Thomas Muir.
The game started out with end to end action. Both Stevie Lyle and Flyers' back-up tender Blair Daly saw some shots in the only 10 minutes. Apart from that, there wasn't much going on, until about the seven minute mark, when Cardiff defensemen Chris Frank was sent to the box for slashing. Devils killed the penalty and continued with the game... only for Frank to be sent back to the box on an inference call. This came about when a Flyers' player took a shot, Lyle saved it, and the Flyers' player took a tumble. Before the two-minute penalty was over, Frank was joined by Jeff Pierce in the box, as the Devils were called up for too many men on the ice. Although shorthanded the Devils made some excellent plays, with the likes of young Brit Ben Davies coming close to scoring. Much like with the first penalty, the Devils killed it off and continued on.
Just over five minutes after the last penalty, power forward Phil Hill managed to get one past Daly, who, up until that point, had been staying strong in between the pipes, despite being a back-up goaltender. Assists went out to Captain Stuart MacRae and Chris Frank, who was well on course for a Gorgie Howe hat-trick; unfortunately we didn't get to see one. The Devils continued to shoot at the goal, tallying fourteen shots to the Flyers' seven, but Daly held strong for the remainder of the period. Score at the end of the first, 1-0 Devils.
Into the second, and the Flyers' were desperate to even the score. They tried taking out key Devils' players, such as Jeff Pierce and Chris Frank, but even this couldn't help. At 31:49, new signing Josh Batch scored his first goal for the Devils, with the assists going to Brad Voth and Stuart MacRae. There was a small case of handbags after the goal, but no penalties came of it. Due to a fumble by the Flyers' goaltender, Jeff Pierce managed to put the Devils up 3-0 all before fifteen minutes had passed.
Despite being down 3-0, Fife weren't giving up. After many botched attempts, Danny Stewart succeeded in getting his team their first goal, at 38:54. There were also several minor penalties, two at the same time for Cardiff resulting in a 5-on-3 that gave Fife their goal. However, this is nothing compared to what was happening in the BBT, where the ENL Devils were playing Invicta. It was said to be carnage in Cardiff, with fights all over the place, and many players getting thrown out; the second period was abandoned with three minutes left, but those were played after everyone calmed down. They went straight into third period after playing final three of the second period. In Fife, the second period ended 3-1 Devils.
After finishing the second period, unlike the ENL Devils, the Cardiff Devils were raring to go when coming out for the third. Despite this, the Flyers' managed to pull the game back to one goal, courtesy of Mike Hamilton, at 41:09. There were a few minor penalties throughout the period, but neither side could capitalise on the advantage. MOM Blair Daly looked like he had seen off the Cardiff Devils, until 53 seconds before the end of the period, when Scott Matzka slid a final Devils' goal passed him, making the final score Devils 4, Flyers 2.
It's nice to see the Devils winning in Scotland! Let's hope that the long trip home, on the 'blane' as Max calls it, doesn't make the guys too tired to play against the Steelers, in the BBT tomorrow night; FO is at 6pm. Let's Go Devils!
Just like last Saturday, the Cardiff Devils traveled up to Scotland, this time ready to face the Fife Flyers. After a not so successful trip last weekend, everyone was hoping that tonight would be different. Missing from the Devils' line-up tonight is Canadian defensemen Mark Smith, with Scott Makza back in the line-up after missing the Devils' win over the Braehead Clan on Sunday, in the BBT. Flyers missing starting goaltender Garrett Zemlak, and defensemen Thomas Muir.
The game started out with end to end action. Both Stevie Lyle and Flyers' back-up tender Blair Daly saw some shots in the only 10 minutes. Apart from that, there wasn't much going on, until about the seven minute mark, when Cardiff defensemen Chris Frank was sent to the box for slashing. Devils killed the penalty and continued with the game... only for Frank to be sent back to the box on an inference call. This came about when a Flyers' player took a shot, Lyle saved it, and the Flyers' player took a tumble. Before the two-minute penalty was over, Frank was joined by Jeff Pierce in the box, as the Devils were called up for too many men on the ice. Although shorthanded the Devils made some excellent plays, with the likes of young Brit Ben Davies coming close to scoring. Much like with the first penalty, the Devils killed it off and continued on.
Just over five minutes after the last penalty, power forward Phil Hill managed to get one past Daly, who, up until that point, had been staying strong in between the pipes, despite being a back-up goaltender. Assists went out to Captain Stuart MacRae and Chris Frank, who was well on course for a Gorgie Howe hat-trick; unfortunately we didn't get to see one. The Devils continued to shoot at the goal, tallying fourteen shots to the Flyers' seven, but Daly held strong for the remainder of the period. Score at the end of the first, 1-0 Devils.
Into the second, and the Flyers' were desperate to even the score. They tried taking out key Devils' players, such as Jeff Pierce and Chris Frank, but even this couldn't help. At 31:49, new signing Josh Batch scored his first goal for the Devils, with the assists going to Brad Voth and Stuart MacRae. There was a small case of handbags after the goal, but no penalties came of it. Due to a fumble by the Flyers' goaltender, Jeff Pierce managed to put the Devils up 3-0 all before fifteen minutes had passed.
Despite being down 3-0, Fife weren't giving up. After many botched attempts, Danny Stewart succeeded in getting his team their first goal, at 38:54. There were also several minor penalties, two at the same time for Cardiff resulting in a 5-on-3 that gave Fife their goal. However, this is nothing compared to what was happening in the BBT, where the ENL Devils were playing Invicta. It was said to be carnage in Cardiff, with fights all over the place, and many players getting thrown out; the second period was abandoned with three minutes left, but those were played after everyone calmed down. They went straight into third period after playing final three of the second period. In Fife, the second period ended 3-1 Devils.
After finishing the second period, unlike the ENL Devils, the Cardiff Devils were raring to go when coming out for the third. Despite this, the Flyers' managed to pull the game back to one goal, courtesy of Mike Hamilton, at 41:09. There were a few minor penalties throughout the period, but neither side could capitalise on the advantage. MOM Blair Daly looked like he had seen off the Cardiff Devils, until 53 seconds before the end of the period, when Scott Matzka slid a final Devils' goal passed him, making the final score Devils 4, Flyers 2.
It's nice to see the Devils winning in Scotland! Let's hope that the long trip home, on the 'blane' as Max calls it, doesn't make the guys too tired to play against the Steelers, in the BBT tomorrow night; FO is at 6pm. Let's Go Devils!
Sunday 2 October 2011
Cardiff Devils vs Braehead Clan 02/10/11
Devils 5, Clan 2 - Final
Sunday night, and it's time for the Devils to get some revenge on the Braehead Clan, after last night's 3-1 defeat up in Scotland. With Player/Assistant Coach Scott Matzka missing for the Devils, supposedly with a mild concussion, and Mike Bayrack missing from the Clan's bench, due to visa problems, it was sure to be an interesting game.
The first period didn't get off to the best of starts in the BBT, with some technical problems delaying the FO. By the time the puck was dropped everyone was anxious to see what was going to happen. Once play started, the Devils created several changes, getting a few shots on goal, but last night's MOM Jaakko Suomalainen held strong in between the pipes. In the opening ten minutes, both teams also saw a couple of offsides.
The penalty box also saw some action in the initial twenty minutes. Starting at 7:14, Braehead had four players sent to the box, Galbraith the first for hooking, followed by Zajac for interference; Tim Wedderburn, who was the other Clan player to earn a penalty in last night's game, followed his teammates with a delay of game call. At 17:15, both Kyle Bruce and Brad Voth were served penalties, Bruce's for roughing. Voth's penalty, however, was for a high stick, for which he received five plus a game misconduct. To combat for this, Jeff Pierce took matters into his own hands and, with the help of Kenton Smith and Stuart MacRae, put the puck in the back of the net. Score at the end of the first, 1-0 Devils.
Roll on the second period! After good first period, the Devils came back out after the fifteen minute intermission, ready and raring to go. And did they ever show who's game it was! Just 1:06 into the period, Player/Coach Gerad Adams took hold of the puck and blasted it past Clan tender Suomalainen. With the score now 2-0 Devils, it is possible that Braehead were getting slightly frustrated. At 25:42, Kyle Bruce was put in the box for roughing, and Jordan Krestanovich followed with two for hooking. Despite the Clan penalties, the Devils' game continued to flow and Captain Stuart MacRae added the Devils' third goal of the night. To round of the period, Jeff Pierce scored his second of the night, and Gerad Adams was sent to the box for holding.
Another fifteen minute intermission and the players were back out on the ice, ready for the third period. The final twenty minutes saw two penalties and three goals, plus a change of goaltender. At 41:48, Ryan Campbell managed to pull one back for the Clan; James Jorgensen followed this up with a hooking penalty. Two minutes later, fellow Clan member Jordan Krestanovich joined Jorgensen in the box, after drawing a tripping call. This gave the Devils a 5-on-3 power-play, which they used to their advantage. At 44:46, British Defensemen Mark Richardson netted the Devils' fifth and final goal. In a last ditch attempt to pull back the game, Jordan Krestanovich added a second goal to the Clan's tally, at 53:18, just after the Devils had swtiched Lyle for Joe Myers. Final score: Devils 5, Clan 2.
Next game is on Saturday, in Fife, FO at 7:15pm. Can't make it up to Scotland? Follow the guys here: www.the-inferno.co.uk/mnl Let's Go Devils!
Sunday night, and it's time for the Devils to get some revenge on the Braehead Clan, after last night's 3-1 defeat up in Scotland. With Player/Assistant Coach Scott Matzka missing for the Devils, supposedly with a mild concussion, and Mike Bayrack missing from the Clan's bench, due to visa problems, it was sure to be an interesting game.
The first period didn't get off to the best of starts in the BBT, with some technical problems delaying the FO. By the time the puck was dropped everyone was anxious to see what was going to happen. Once play started, the Devils created several changes, getting a few shots on goal, but last night's MOM Jaakko Suomalainen held strong in between the pipes. In the opening ten minutes, both teams also saw a couple of offsides.
The penalty box also saw some action in the initial twenty minutes. Starting at 7:14, Braehead had four players sent to the box, Galbraith the first for hooking, followed by Zajac for interference; Tim Wedderburn, who was the other Clan player to earn a penalty in last night's game, followed his teammates with a delay of game call. At 17:15, both Kyle Bruce and Brad Voth were served penalties, Bruce's for roughing. Voth's penalty, however, was for a high stick, for which he received five plus a game misconduct. To combat for this, Jeff Pierce took matters into his own hands and, with the help of Kenton Smith and Stuart MacRae, put the puck in the back of the net. Score at the end of the first, 1-0 Devils.
Roll on the second period! After good first period, the Devils came back out after the fifteen minute intermission, ready and raring to go. And did they ever show who's game it was! Just 1:06 into the period, Player/Coach Gerad Adams took hold of the puck and blasted it past Clan tender Suomalainen. With the score now 2-0 Devils, it is possible that Braehead were getting slightly frustrated. At 25:42, Kyle Bruce was put in the box for roughing, and Jordan Krestanovich followed with two for hooking. Despite the Clan penalties, the Devils' game continued to flow and Captain Stuart MacRae added the Devils' third goal of the night. To round of the period, Jeff Pierce scored his second of the night, and Gerad Adams was sent to the box for holding.
Another fifteen minute intermission and the players were back out on the ice, ready for the third period. The final twenty minutes saw two penalties and three goals, plus a change of goaltender. At 41:48, Ryan Campbell managed to pull one back for the Clan; James Jorgensen followed this up with a hooking penalty. Two minutes later, fellow Clan member Jordan Krestanovich joined Jorgensen in the box, after drawing a tripping call. This gave the Devils a 5-on-3 power-play, which they used to their advantage. At 44:46, British Defensemen Mark Richardson netted the Devils' fifth and final goal. In a last ditch attempt to pull back the game, Jordan Krestanovich added a second goal to the Clan's tally, at 53:18, just after the Devils had swtiched Lyle for Joe Myers. Final score: Devils 5, Clan 2.
Next game is on Saturday, in Fife, FO at 7:15pm. Can't make it up to Scotland? Follow the guys here: www.the-inferno.co.uk/mnl Let's Go Devils!
Saturday 1 October 2011
Cardiff Devils @ Braehead Clan 01/10/11
Devils 1, Clan 3 - Final
This first of October saw the Cardiff boys travelling to Scotland for their first match-up against the Braehead Clan. The Clan are coming off a brilliant weekend, after winning their game on Saturday 6-0 against the Dundee Stars, and the Sunday game 4-2, against the Edinburgh Capitals. On the other hand, the Devils are also coming off a four-point weekend, after defeating Hull 4-2 at the BBT, and shutting out Coventry, in the Skydome, with a 2-0 final score.
The game started with some intense end-to-end action, with both goaltenders getting closer to the puck than they would like. Both teams also saw their fair share of offsides in the opening five minutes. But, after about seven minutes of the first period, Frank the Tank showed us all that he isn't invincible. After Scott Matzka was sent to the box for tripping, the Clan were trying to capitalize on their advantage, shooting shot after shot at the net. Frank put his body in the way of a Clan shot and ended up taking a bite out of the puck; or, the puck to a bite out of him? The defensemen was taken from the ice to get patched up, and play continued after the ice was cleaned. But nothing could keep the Tank from the ice. He was back on just after Braehead scored their first goal, netted by Adam Walker at 12:59, unassisted.
Throughout the duration of the first twenty minutes, the Devils took a couple of penalties, all minor in some degree or another. Unfortunately, the third power-play was just what the Clan were looking for, and they capitalized with the extra man, McPherson doubling their lead, while Kenton Smith was in the box for slashing. Score at the end of the first, 2-0 Clan.
Devils were given a slight reprieve in the second, with less penalties being taken. Most of the second twenty minutes were played with five men for both side, with the exception of a slashing call for Dobben and a holding call for Wedderburn. Both teams through everything at the net, but this time the netminders were ready. With shots coming at both ends, Lyle and Suomalainen, earning himself the MOM award, were pulling off some fantastic saves. Second finished 2-0 Clan.
The start of the third saw some rough play, mainly centered around Lyle's goal area but nothing came of it. In fact, nothing really happened for the first ten or so minutes of the third period. There were hits made, but none that did any serious damage. It wasn't until 49:34 that the box saw any actions. The only Clan to get a penalty throughout the entire game, Tim Wedderburn spent two minutes in the box for interference. During the power-play, the Devils' own Max Birbraer managed to pull them back within one goal, with the help of defensemen Kenton Smith and Mark Richardson, at 50:43.
Energized by the PP goal, the Devils found a new lease of life and gave everything to get the puck on the net. Despite this, the Clan's netminder, Jaakko Suomalainen, stood strong between the pipes. 57:14 saw Tim Wedderburn back in the box, once again for interference, but Cardiff failed to use the advantage. With 14 seconds left of the game, Braehead cemented their win with an empty net goal, after the Devils pulled Lyle, in hope that the extra attacker would help level up the playing-field. Final score 3-1 Braehead.
Despite the loss tonight, the Devils will be gunning for revenge tomorrow night, as they face the Braehead Clan at home in the BBT. FO is at 6pm, make sure you are there to support the guys. Let's Go Devils!
This first of October saw the Cardiff boys travelling to Scotland for their first match-up against the Braehead Clan. The Clan are coming off a brilliant weekend, after winning their game on Saturday 6-0 against the Dundee Stars, and the Sunday game 4-2, against the Edinburgh Capitals. On the other hand, the Devils are also coming off a four-point weekend, after defeating Hull 4-2 at the BBT, and shutting out Coventry, in the Skydome, with a 2-0 final score.
The game started with some intense end-to-end action, with both goaltenders getting closer to the puck than they would like. Both teams also saw their fair share of offsides in the opening five minutes. But, after about seven minutes of the first period, Frank the Tank showed us all that he isn't invincible. After Scott Matzka was sent to the box for tripping, the Clan were trying to capitalize on their advantage, shooting shot after shot at the net. Frank put his body in the way of a Clan shot and ended up taking a bite out of the puck; or, the puck to a bite out of him? The defensemen was taken from the ice to get patched up, and play continued after the ice was cleaned. But nothing could keep the Tank from the ice. He was back on just after Braehead scored their first goal, netted by Adam Walker at 12:59, unassisted.
Throughout the duration of the first twenty minutes, the Devils took a couple of penalties, all minor in some degree or another. Unfortunately, the third power-play was just what the Clan were looking for, and they capitalized with the extra man, McPherson doubling their lead, while Kenton Smith was in the box for slashing. Score at the end of the first, 2-0 Clan.
Devils were given a slight reprieve in the second, with less penalties being taken. Most of the second twenty minutes were played with five men for both side, with the exception of a slashing call for Dobben and a holding call for Wedderburn. Both teams through everything at the net, but this time the netminders were ready. With shots coming at both ends, Lyle and Suomalainen, earning himself the MOM award, were pulling off some fantastic saves. Second finished 2-0 Clan.
The start of the third saw some rough play, mainly centered around Lyle's goal area but nothing came of it. In fact, nothing really happened for the first ten or so minutes of the third period. There were hits made, but none that did any serious damage. It wasn't until 49:34 that the box saw any actions. The only Clan to get a penalty throughout the entire game, Tim Wedderburn spent two minutes in the box for interference. During the power-play, the Devils' own Max Birbraer managed to pull them back within one goal, with the help of defensemen Kenton Smith and Mark Richardson, at 50:43.
Energized by the PP goal, the Devils found a new lease of life and gave everything to get the puck on the net. Despite this, the Clan's netminder, Jaakko Suomalainen, stood strong between the pipes. 57:14 saw Tim Wedderburn back in the box, once again for interference, but Cardiff failed to use the advantage. With 14 seconds left of the game, Braehead cemented their win with an empty net goal, after the Devils pulled Lyle, in hope that the extra attacker would help level up the playing-field. Final score 3-1 Braehead.
Despite the loss tonight, the Devils will be gunning for revenge tomorrow night, as they face the Braehead Clan at home in the BBT. FO is at 6pm, make sure you are there to support the guys. Let's Go Devils!
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