It's been a few days, but it looks like a lot of videos of the Everblades brawl with the Titans have made their way to YouTube. You might want to turn your volume down for all of these videos. Nothing makes the energy at Germain quite as insane as a line brawl.
In this one, you can see the Titans goalie getting involved and Pat Nagle skating down to confront him. You can also see Poss and the Titans coach having a... discussion.
Another view, this time a little closer. Looks like the titans goalie went after Scott Fletcher in this one.
This one is just on the other side of the glass from the action and you get a lovely view of that scumbag Versteeg throwing a late punch when the linesman had broken it up for the most part.
Another, this time with a good view of Poss and the Titans coach having their "discussion."
Last but not least, here's the game feed with the radio call from Alex. I want to condemn the guys for double teaming a player but Tardif being out for the rest of the season makes it hard to feel that they got more than they deserved.
I don't think we'll see anything like that at the College Classic this week, but that's OK. I can only handle one line brawl in Germain a season.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Do the Everblades Have a New Christmas Tradition?
Almost exactly a year after the Blades mixed it up with the Gladiators before they left for their Christmas break they brawled with the Trenton Titans. Crazy how these things work.
If you listen at the beginning of the video you do hear the radio announcer mention that this was probably in retaliation for Mitch Versteeg's nasty hit on Luc Tardif last night.
Unfortunately, I skipped the first Blades game of the season that I was free to go to for a dinner with family friends. Obviously I have no idea what the true root of this is, but I imagine it didn't happen less than ten seconds after the Blades sixth goal, an empty netter, for no reason. Here's the full list of penalties:
If you were at the game, feel free to add what you saw to the comments. Also, if you have video please post it! This is not the sort of thing you sit on and wait a two weeks to upload.
Also, on a slightly related note, The Blades are now sixth in the conference. How insane/competitive is the Southeast division right now? Three teams have 32 points and the Gladiators lead the Conference and division with 35.
If you listen at the beginning of the video you do hear the radio announcer mention that this was probably in retaliation for Mitch Versteeg's nasty hit on Luc Tardif last night.
Unfortunately, I skipped the first Blades game of the season that I was free to go to for a dinner with family friends. Obviously I have no idea what the true root of this is, but I imagine it didn't happen less than ten seconds after the Blades sixth goal, an empty netter, for no reason. Here's the full list of penalties:
If you were at the game, feel free to add what you saw to the comments. Also, if you have video please post it! This is not the sort of thing you sit on and wait a two weeks to upload.
Also, on a slightly related note, The Blades are now sixth in the conference. How insane/competitive is the Southeast division right now? Three teams have 32 points and the Gladiators lead the Conference and division with 35.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
YouTube Tuesday
About three days ago, I saw this tweet pop up on my timeline.
The minutes I saw it, I knew what video was going to be featured today.
This video is awesome for several reasons:
1. Leigh Salters is the biggest BAMF ever (don't click that link if you're at work, it's not safe). I love how he just pulls off his cage like it's no big deal and his nose isn't really broken.
2. It's great to see teammates stick up for each other. It's also pretty great to see the guys public acknowledge how awesome it is.
3. T.J. Reynolds is very high on my list of ECHL players I hate. Any game he gets his behind handed to him is a good game.
I've come to understand the little girls that had the " I <3 u Salters" sign a few games ago. I'm starting to think I <3 Salters too.
This video is awesome for several reasons:
1. Leigh Salters is the biggest BAMF ever (don't click that link if you're at work, it's not safe). I love how he just pulls off his cage like it's no big deal and his nose isn't really broken.
2. It's great to see teammates stick up for each other. It's also pretty great to see the guys public acknowledge how awesome it is.
3. T.J. Reynolds is very high on my list of ECHL players I hate. Any game he gets his behind handed to him is a good game.
I've come to understand the little girls that had the " I <3 u Salters" sign a few games ago. I'm starting to think I <3 Salters too.
Monday, December 19, 2011
News and Notes
The Everblades didn't do too well on their road trip. Two points out of six? Not ideal obviously. Luckily our two home games this weak will be against the perpetually struggling Trenton Titans. They're currently sitting in eighth in the conference. That's a little hard to swallow when you consider we won the Brabham Cup three seasons ago.
- Links to the game re-caps if you haven't seen them yet- loss to the Gladiators, loss to the Road Warriors, win in the shoot-out against the Road Warriors.
- Maybe the Blades struggles of late can be contributed to the Jr. Blades stealing all the winning mojo from the Germain atmosphere. They cleaned up at the Palm Beach Showcase they attended over the weekend going a perfect 4-0 during the tournament. That makes their record 22-0-1-0. Congratulations guys!
- You guys know I adore the Third String Goalie blog. Well, they were kind enough to to feature the weirdest (and my favorite) jersey in my extremely weird collection. As you can imagine, having a jersey from my collection featured on a blog I read religiously made my day.
- I've talked about this before and Woody over at the Blades' Blog agrees. If you're not using Twitter an following the Blades players and other blades fans, you're missing out.
- I've started a list of current and former Everblades players on Twitter to help you out. I have not included players who have set their accounts to private. I'm creepy, but not creepy enough to invade their privacy.
- If you do decide to join Twitter (and are kind enough to follow me), make sure you tweet me that you're an Everblades fan, that way I can follow you back and let other Blades fans know you just joined. I'll make it super easy copy this- @swamphockey I'm an Everblades fan that just joined Twitter! - and paste it into the little box and press the tweet button. Easy as can be, and a fun way to meet new Blades fans. If you already follow me and I haven't followed you back, let me know (I can be a little oblivious sometimes).
- Links to the game re-caps if you haven't seen them yet- loss to the Gladiators, loss to the Road Warriors, win in the shoot-out against the Road Warriors.
- Maybe the Blades struggles of late can be contributed to the Jr. Blades stealing all the winning mojo from the Germain atmosphere. They cleaned up at the Palm Beach Showcase they attended over the weekend going a perfect 4-0 during the tournament. That makes their record 22-0-1-0. Congratulations guys!
- You guys know I adore the Third String Goalie blog. Well, they were kind enough to to feature the weirdest (and my favorite) jersey in my extremely weird collection. As you can imagine, having a jersey from my collection featured on a blog I read religiously made my day.
- I've talked about this before and Woody over at the Blades' Blog agrees. If you're not using Twitter an following the Blades players and other blades fans, you're missing out.
- I've started a list of current and former Everblades players on Twitter to help you out. I have not included players who have set their accounts to private. I'm creepy, but not creepy enough to invade their privacy.
- If you do decide to join Twitter (and are kind enough to follow me), make sure you tweet me that you're an Everblades fan, that way I can follow you back and let other Blades fans know you just joined. I'll make it super easy copy this- @swamphockey I'm an Everblades fan that just joined Twitter! - and paste it into the little box and press the tweet button. Easy as can be, and a fun way to meet new Blades fans. If you already follow me and I haven't followed you back, let me know (I can be a little oblivious sometimes).
Friday, December 16, 2011
Friday Links
I really don't feel like re-capping last night's game. Losses to the Gladiators and Stingrays seem to make me grumpier than usual. Add to that a half finished Christmas shopping list and you have a recipe for disaster. On to the links.
- Since I'm heading to Sunrise next week and the Panthers have decided to bring this back just in time your Wikipedia hockey page for today is- "Rat Trick"
- It's a little absurd how cheap vintage jerseys are over on Etsy. Case in point: $45 for the original jersey design the Washington Capitals wore.
- This is obviously the greatest hockey cake of all time.
- I've noticed some pretty good deals on jerseys popping up on eBay lately. This one is awesome and ends in two days.
- It's rime for the tweet of the week. This one's funny because it didn't happen to you:
- Today's post at Third String Goalie was more interesting as a general history lesson than a hockey jersey history lesson.
- I feel like it's time for a change. No more puppies. Time to go back to the kittens.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!
- Since I'm heading to Sunrise next week and the Panthers have decided to bring this back just in time your Wikipedia hockey page for today is- "Rat Trick"
- It's a little absurd how cheap vintage jerseys are over on Etsy. Case in point: $45 for the original jersey design the Washington Capitals wore.
- This is obviously the greatest hockey cake of all time.
- I've noticed some pretty good deals on jerseys popping up on eBay lately. This one is awesome and ends in two days.
- It's rime for the tweet of the week. This one's funny because it didn't happen to you:
- Today's post at Third String Goalie was more interesting as a general history lesson than a hockey jersey history lesson.
- I feel like it's time for a change. No more puppies. Time to go back to the kittens.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!
Thursday, December 15, 2011
News and Notes
It's a little funny that signing immediately bring me out of a terrible writing funk. I'm not going to complain though, it's always fun to see a new player in action, especially when it can mean good things for the Blades.
- We may have lost Justin Shugg, but we signed a forward with a Kelly Cup Championship ring in his place. Kory Falite won last season with the Alaska Aces, and was playing in Norway. Now he's all ours. His stats:
- The Lightning have sent us defenseman Charles Landry. His stats:
- Some bad news: Alex Hutchings was moved to the 21 day IR list. Not good at all.
- I didn't take that many pictures at the Teddy Bear toss because all the seats in my favorite section were bought before I could get to the arena (and then NO ONE SAT IN THEM, grrrr). This is my favorite though. Pat Nagle chilling with his new bestie.
- I'm super proud that I've had one of my photos appear in an actual magazine! It was included with a story on how amazing the Jr. Blades have been playing this season (if you still haven't been to a game, you suck). Skip to page 15 for the story (and my photo).
- The Blades start a three game in three days road series tonight in Gwinnett. They're eighth in the conference and last in the division. Losing is not an option at this point.
- Must mean it's time for a doggie picture then, eh?
see more dog and puppy pictures
- We may have lost Justin Shugg, but we signed a forward with a Kelly Cup Championship ring in his place. Kory Falite won last season with the Alaska Aces, and was playing in Norway. Now he's all ours. His stats:
- The Lightning have sent us defenseman Charles Landry. His stats:
- Some bad news: Alex Hutchings was moved to the 21 day IR list. Not good at all.
- I didn't take that many pictures at the Teddy Bear toss because all the seats in my favorite section were bought before I could get to the arena (and then NO ONE SAT IN THEM, grrrr). This is my favorite though. Pat Nagle chilling with his new bestie.
- I'm super proud that I've had one of my photos appear in an actual magazine! It was included with a story on how amazing the Jr. Blades have been playing this season (if you still haven't been to a game, you suck). Skip to page 15 for the story (and my photo).
- The Blades start a three game in three days road series tonight in Gwinnett. They're eighth in the conference and last in the division. Losing is not an option at this point.
- Must mean it's time for a doggie picture then, eh?
see more dog and puppy pictures
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Jackals (12/9/11)
After a disappointing loss on Wednesday, the Blades had to make a statement in Fridays game. Thankfully, they did. Oh boy, did they.
The Blades came out running at full steam. You could almost taste their determination to win. It paid off early with a power play goal for David Rutherford about one minute into the period (assists to Beca and Shugg). About eight and a half minutes later, the Jackals would tie it up on the power play 1-1.
Luckily, Ryan Galiardi notched his fifth of the season about three minutes later on an extended 5 on 3 to give the Blades the 2-1 lead (assists to Rutherford and Shugg). The rest of the period was uneventful, and the score remained 2-1 when both teams left the ice.
Just like last night the Everblades came to play in the second. They scored three goals and held the Jackals to their zone for most period. Ryan Galiardi scored his second of the game at 6:45 (assists to Pitt and Beca). Scott Pitt netted one of his own at 15:46 9 (assists to Galiardi and Beca). Oh, hey. Guess who got it on film?
Deron Cousens added one of his own at 18:34 (assists to Beca and Martin). That was the last of the goals for that period. There was some rough stuff in the closing minutes, but the Blades managed to come out on top penalty-wise. The score when the period ended was 5-1.
The Jackals tried their best to make something happen, but the Blades could not be stopped. About three minutes into the period, Matt Beca made it 6-1 (assists to Bruess and Donald). Elmira finally decided to give their goalie the hook after Beca's goal. Unfortunately, a little over a minute later, Mathieu Roy proved that no Jackals goalie was going to come between the Blades and the back of the net.
The Jackals were able to stop the bleeding... for awhile. At 15:22, Deron Cousens notched his second of the game to make it 8-1 (assist to Pitt). About three minutes after that, one of the Jackals beat Blades goalie Pat Nagle, but that didn't matter. The final score was 8-2. the Blades got a win they completely deserved.
The Gamesheet is here.
The photos I took:
Some thoughts:
- How amazing did the Blades look? I would gladly pay double if the team that played tonight would promise to show up every game. Heck, I probably wouldn't grumble about paying triple.
- I said we could beat Elmira's goaltender, and I was right. Excuse me while I sit smugly over here.
- Two goals each for Galiardi and Cousens. Nice to see everyone stepping up and contributing.
- Scott Pitt +5. Dude was everywhere, and it shows.
- Pat Nagle had 28 saves on 30 shots. A nice bounce back from last game.
- I guess Matt Beca isn't struggling anymore. 1 goal, 4 assists. Not bad at all Mr. Beca.
- I get the feeling that Saturday's game is going to be ugly. The officials were so determined to keep anything chippy from happening I wouldn't be surprised to see the pot boil over at some point. The Blades and Jackals are not friends.
The Blades came out running at full steam. You could almost taste their determination to win. It paid off early with a power play goal for David Rutherford about one minute into the period (assists to Beca and Shugg). About eight and a half minutes later, the Jackals would tie it up on the power play 1-1.
Luckily, Ryan Galiardi notched his fifth of the season about three minutes later on an extended 5 on 3 to give the Blades the 2-1 lead (assists to Rutherford and Shugg). The rest of the period was uneventful, and the score remained 2-1 when both teams left the ice.
Just like last night the Everblades came to play in the second. They scored three goals and held the Jackals to their zone for most period. Ryan Galiardi scored his second of the game at 6:45 (assists to Pitt and Beca). Scott Pitt netted one of his own at 15:46 9 (assists to Galiardi and Beca). Oh, hey. Guess who got it on film?
Deron Cousens added one of his own at 18:34 (assists to Beca and Martin). That was the last of the goals for that period. There was some rough stuff in the closing minutes, but the Blades managed to come out on top penalty-wise. The score when the period ended was 5-1.
The Jackals tried their best to make something happen, but the Blades could not be stopped. About three minutes into the period, Matt Beca made it 6-1 (assists to Bruess and Donald). Elmira finally decided to give their goalie the hook after Beca's goal. Unfortunately, a little over a minute later, Mathieu Roy proved that no Jackals goalie was going to come between the Blades and the back of the net.
The Jackals were able to stop the bleeding... for awhile. At 15:22, Deron Cousens notched his second of the game to make it 8-1 (assist to Pitt). About three minutes after that, one of the Jackals beat Blades goalie Pat Nagle, but that didn't matter. The final score was 8-2. the Blades got a win they completely deserved.
The Gamesheet is here.
The photos I took:
Some thoughts:
- How amazing did the Blades look? I would gladly pay double if the team that played tonight would promise to show up every game. Heck, I probably wouldn't grumble about paying triple.
- I said we could beat Elmira's goaltender, and I was right. Excuse me while I sit smugly over here.
- Two goals each for Galiardi and Cousens. Nice to see everyone stepping up and contributing.
- Scott Pitt +5. Dude was everywhere, and it shows.
- Pat Nagle had 28 saves on 30 shots. A nice bounce back from last game.
- I guess Matt Beca isn't struggling anymore. 1 goal, 4 assists. Not bad at all Mr. Beca.
- I get the feeling that Saturday's game is going to be ugly. The officials were so determined to keep anything chippy from happening I wouldn't be surprised to see the pot boil over at some point. The Blades and Jackals are not friends.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Friday Links
Happy game day everyone! The Blades are playing their second game of the three game series they have with the Jackals. The Shuggernaut has returned and we have an actual non-EBUG goalie backing-up tonight. Things are better than they usually are in Blades land.
- Your Wikipedia hockey page for today is one of my favorite South Park episodes- "Stanley's Cup"
- Ladies and gentlemen, your Tweet of the Week.
- I'm a little amazed no one has bid on this stick yet. I just might if no one else will.
- I'm pretty sure this is the cake I want for my birthday. With a Penguins or Everblades logo instead of the leafs obviously. Oh, and with my name too.
- I'm also pretty sure this is what my party is going to be like.
- Our neighbors on the other side of the state have been playing amazing hockey. What better way to jump on the Panthers bandwagon than with a "vintage" panthers hockey jersey?
- The Puppies have been working out for the most part. Have to keep going with them.
see more dog and puppy pictures
- Your Wikipedia hockey page for today is one of my favorite South Park episodes- "Stanley's Cup"
- Ladies and gentlemen, your Tweet of the Week.
- I'm a little amazed no one has bid on this stick yet. I just might if no one else will.
- I'm pretty sure this is the cake I want for my birthday. With a Penguins or Everblades logo instead of the leafs obviously. Oh, and with my name too.
- I'm also pretty sure this is what my party is going to be like.
- Our neighbors on the other side of the state have been playing amazing hockey. What better way to jump on the Panthers bandwagon than with a "vintage" panthers hockey jersey?
- The Puppies have been working out for the most part. Have to keep going with them.
see more dog and puppy pictures
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Jackals
The Blades kicked off their second home series against the Jackals last night. With a severely gutted roster, the Blades had no choice but to play smart.
The first goal of the night was pretty much the way the Jackals goals would be all night. Slightly flukey, slightly goalie Pat Nagle's fault, all bad news. The Jackals first goal, 14 seconds into the game made it 1-0. The score remained that way until a little after the nine minute mark when a power play goal from David Rutherford tied it up (assist to Beca and Fischer). The period ended with things all tied up 1-1.
The second period saw the weakest tripping call ever on Trevor Bruess. Of course the Jackals were able to convert on that power play to take a 2-1 lead 3:35 into the period. About a minute later, the Blades responded with a goal from Matt Beca to tie it up once again (assists to Tardif and Lawson). 23 seconds later the Jackals took the lead for the third time, but the Blades tied it right back up a minute later with a goal from Luc Tardif (assisted by Donald).
About 30 seconds later the Everblades took the first lead of the night with a goal from Trevor Bruess (assists to Van Dyk and Fischer). Unfortunately, another weak call on the Everblades allowed it to be tied up 4-4 with a Jackals goal in the closing minutes of the period. The score remained tied 4-4 when the buzzer sounded on the period.
The third period was quiet, for the most part. the ref decided to put his whistle away and let the guys play. Unfortunately, the Jackals were able to score in the latter half of the period to make it 5-4. The Blades tried their hardest, but they couldn't beat the Jackals netminder and the period enede with the blades losing 5-4 to the Jackals.
The gamesheet is here.
The pictures I took last night:
Some thoughts:
- I really thought the Blades were the better team. They held Elmira in their end for long, intense, stretches.
- I still think that Elmira's goalie is beatable. The guys just need to be ready to pot a rebound.
- I don't know if it was the ice was an issue. The puck seemed to be bouncing a lot more than usual and a lot of guys were having skate issues.
- A few people have mentioned that two Blades goals were not called because the ref was out of position. I'm not sire if that's true or not, but the ECHL's officiating isn't spectacular so I'm not surprised if it is.
- I'm underlining this for impact: The Blades need to stop looking for calls after every slightly illegal play or move from the opposing team. Either the penalty will be called or it won't. The game continues until the ref blows the whistle, no exceptions, don't stop playing, don't stop pressuring.
There is some good news though. The Checkers have returned forward Justin Shugg. I, for one, am happy to have the Shuggernaut return when we need offensive firepower desperately. The Blades signed goalie Billy Sauer yesterday. You may remember him, and his fight with Bobby Goepfert, from last season. I feel like I should make a sign that reads "It's OK Billy, Big Bad Bobby Goepfert isn't here anymore. You're safe... for now."
One more thing, Toys for Tots tomorrow night. If I see anyone in a Blades jersey walk up without a toy you're getting Clacksoned (I'm using this to describe jumping someone from behind and beating them up from now on). Also, Teddy bear toss Saturday. I look forward to getting pelted with stuffed animals and I hope any of you who sit close to the glass do as well.
The first goal of the night was pretty much the way the Jackals goals would be all night. Slightly flukey, slightly goalie Pat Nagle's fault, all bad news. The Jackals first goal, 14 seconds into the game made it 1-0. The score remained that way until a little after the nine minute mark when a power play goal from David Rutherford tied it up (assist to Beca and Fischer). The period ended with things all tied up 1-1.
The second period saw the weakest tripping call ever on Trevor Bruess. Of course the Jackals were able to convert on that power play to take a 2-1 lead 3:35 into the period. About a minute later, the Blades responded with a goal from Matt Beca to tie it up once again (assists to Tardif and Lawson). 23 seconds later the Jackals took the lead for the third time, but the Blades tied it right back up a minute later with a goal from Luc Tardif (assisted by Donald).
About 30 seconds later the Everblades took the first lead of the night with a goal from Trevor Bruess (assists to Van Dyk and Fischer). Unfortunately, another weak call on the Everblades allowed it to be tied up 4-4 with a Jackals goal in the closing minutes of the period. The score remained tied 4-4 when the buzzer sounded on the period.
The third period was quiet, for the most part. the ref decided to put his whistle away and let the guys play. Unfortunately, the Jackals were able to score in the latter half of the period to make it 5-4. The Blades tried their hardest, but they couldn't beat the Jackals netminder and the period enede with the blades losing 5-4 to the Jackals.
The gamesheet is here.
The pictures I took last night:
Some thoughts:
- I really thought the Blades were the better team. They held Elmira in their end for long, intense, stretches.
- I still think that Elmira's goalie is beatable. The guys just need to be ready to pot a rebound.
- I don't know if it was the ice was an issue. The puck seemed to be bouncing a lot more than usual and a lot of guys were having skate issues.
- A few people have mentioned that two Blades goals were not called because the ref was out of position. I'm not sire if that's true or not, but the ECHL's officiating isn't spectacular so I'm not surprised if it is.
- I'm underlining this for impact: The Blades need to stop looking for calls after every slightly illegal play or move from the opposing team. Either the penalty will be called or it won't. The game continues until the ref blows the whistle, no exceptions, don't stop playing, don't stop pressuring.
There is some good news though. The Checkers have returned forward Justin Shugg. I, for one, am happy to have the Shuggernaut return when we need offensive firepower desperately. The Blades signed goalie Billy Sauer yesterday. You may remember him, and his fight with Bobby Goepfert, from last season. I feel like I should make a sign that reads "It's OK Billy, Big Bad Bobby Goepfert isn't here anymore. You're safe... for now."
One more thing, Toys for Tots tomorrow night. If I see anyone in a Blades jersey walk up without a toy you're getting Clacksoned (I'm using this to describe jumping someone from behind and beating them up from now on). Also, Teddy bear toss Saturday. I look forward to getting pelted with stuffed animals and I hope any of you who sit close to the glass do as well.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
News and Notes
Quite a few bits and pieces of news going on in Everblades land.
- First up, Mike McKenzie. Looks like he was able to secure a deal with our old friends, the Houston Aeros. The Checkers were kind enough to release him from his deal. Considering the Checkers are drowning in forwards, it's a nice move to let McKenzie get the AHL time he deserves.
- John Muse was called up to back-up former Everblades Justin Peters in Charlotte. Peters' goaltending partner, Mike Murphy, was called up to the Hurricanes (and actually got his first NHL minutes in relief of Cam ward last night). I'm assuming either Brian Markowicz or Scott Darling will be making an appearance on the bench as back-up for Pat Nagle.
- The Blades made some moves recently to patch up our gutted roster. Last week we traded away Robby Dee for defenceman Jimmy Martin, his stats:
They also signed Augusta Riverhawks forward Lucas LaBelle. You may remember him from the try-outs at the beginning of the season. His stats:
An unofficial signing I've heard about that the Blades haven't announced yet is forward Todd Pocoke. He's an intern with Athletic Republic that works with the team and the Jr. Blades. His stats (I'm hoping these are his stats): Turns out I was wrong. No signing to see here, move along.
- One to file under the maybe Byng is crazy and reading way too much into Tweets from players:
This was directed at a forward named Kerry Bowman. His stats just because:
- OK, done with the roster stuff. $2 beer, wine and hot dogs tonight. Consider this your warning, if you don't show up early I can't guarantee I won't have sucked down all the wine by the time you get there.
- More importantly, Friday Toys for Tots will be collecting unwrapped toys. You get a buy one get one ticket voucher and a kid in need gets an awesome toy. Nobody loses.
- Last but not least, since the puppies have been working:
see more dog and puppy pictures
- First up, Mike McKenzie. Looks like he was able to secure a deal with our old friends, the Houston Aeros. The Checkers were kind enough to release him from his deal. Considering the Checkers are drowning in forwards, it's a nice move to let McKenzie get the AHL time he deserves.
- John Muse was called up to back-up former Everblades Justin Peters in Charlotte. Peters' goaltending partner, Mike Murphy, was called up to the Hurricanes (and actually got his first NHL minutes in relief of Cam ward last night). I'm assuming either Brian Markowicz or Scott Darling will be making an appearance on the bench as back-up for Pat Nagle.
- The Blades made some moves recently to patch up our gutted roster. Last week we traded away Robby Dee for defenceman Jimmy Martin, his stats:
They also signed Augusta Riverhawks forward Lucas LaBelle. You may remember him from the try-outs at the beginning of the season. His stats:
- One to file under the maybe Byng is crazy and reading way too much into Tweets from players:
This was directed at a forward named Kerry Bowman. His stats just because:
- OK, done with the roster stuff. $2 beer, wine and hot dogs tonight. Consider this your warning, if you don't show up early I can't guarantee I won't have sucked down all the wine by the time you get there.
- More importantly, Friday Toys for Tots will be collecting unwrapped toys. You get a buy one get one ticket voucher and a kid in need gets an awesome toy. Nobody loses.
- Last but not least, since the puppies have been working:
see more dog and puppy pictures
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
YouTube Tuesday
I usually try to stick to videos of the Everblades or at least a video related to the Everblades. Today's video was just too cute to ignore. I'm sure you guys will agree with me.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Friday Links
It's Friday, and that means one thing. Time fore a heaping spoonful of links. Hopefully, this will keep you guys entertained until game time.
-No word yet on any suspension for Joey Hadad. I really would like to believe a league that claims to be developmental would do something to protect the future of a player sent down for development. I really, really, do. Just as I write that the league hands down a two game suspension and fine for Hadad. They also give Chris Clackson a one game suspension and fine for jumping David Rutherford. While I'm mentioning it, another video of Clackson being a scumbag.
- The Blades announced a trade with the Bakersfield Condors yesterday. In exchange for forward Robby Dee they receive defenceman Jimmy Martin. His stats:
- This game makes me wish my older cousin hadn't disassembled my old NES. I also wish he hadn't disassembled my old SNES while we're at it. At least my N64 is still intact.
- I enjoyed posting that tweet last week so much I think I'll do it every week. We'll call it the tweet of the week. I'm only going to include current Blades players because, let's be honest, Bobby Goepfert would probably win every single week. If you want to vote, tweet or email me who you think deserves the honor. If you don't vote, it's purely my decision. I'm giving the honor to Ryan Donald this week. Mostly because I'm a total homer for the Penguins and because Donald has a spectacular beard.
see more dog and puppy pictures
-
- The Blades announced a trade with the Bakersfield Condors yesterday. In exchange for forward Robby Dee they receive defenceman Jimmy Martin. His stats:
- This game makes me wish my older cousin hadn't disassembled my old NES. I also wish he hadn't disassembled my old SNES while we're at it. At least my N64 is still intact.
- I enjoyed posting that tweet last week so much I think I'll do it every week. We'll call it the tweet of the week. I'm only going to include current Blades players because, let's be honest, Bobby Goepfert would probably win every single week. If you want to vote, tweet or email me who you think deserves the honor. If you don't vote, it's purely my decision. I'm giving the honor to Ryan Donald this week. Mostly because I'm a total homer for the Penguins and because Donald has a spectacular beard.
- I should probably mention my list of current and former Everblades players on Twitter again, huh? Here you go.
- Great find on eBay. The first style of jersey the Blades wore. They used this style from the teams inception in 98, until 2004 when they removed the grey bands on the bottom and added a stripe behind the logo.
- Today's Wikipedia hockey page is every hockey fans favorite strategy- "The Neutral Zone Trap"
- What would Friday be without a puppy? I miss having a boxer around. Best breed ever.
see more dog and puppy pictures
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Gladiators (11/30/11)
The Blades started their homestand against one of their most hated rivals. The Gladiators, currently 5-3-1-1 in their last ten, are sitting in second place in the division. Games with Gwinnett are always physical affairs, and every so often something controversial happens. This game was no exception.
The Blades started the game dictating the play and being physical. Unfortunately, a momentary lapse, and taking their collective foot off the pedal allowed the Glads to take a 1-0 lead around 14 minutes into the period. Despite some chances, the Blades couldn't convert and the period ended with the score still 1-0.
The Blades were able to make a statement early in the second when Mike McKenzie got a beautiful shot past the Glads goalie to tie things up at the 3:30 mark (assist to Bruess). Unfortunately, a little over three minutes later, the Glads took the lead once again. About eight minutes later, forward Leigh Salters was hit by a nasty high stick that left him cut and bleeding onto the ice. The Glads player guilty of the high sticking received a double minor because of that. Just when it looked like the blades wouldn't be able to make anything happen, David Rutherford ripped one past the Glads goalie to tie things up 2-2 (assists to Roy and Pitt). That late period tally remained the final goal of the period and the teams left the ice with the score still at 2-2.
Unfortunately, the third period was far from pretty or ideal. The Glads were able to take the 3-2 lead early in the period while on the power play. They made it 4-2 about three minutes later. Things were starting to get pretty chippy, and it was obvious the good old nasty Glads were back. To prove that point, Joey Hadad, a player any Blades fan who had been watching for any decent length of time hates with a passion, delivered an elbow to the head of Kyle Lawson. He was thrown out of the game for that hit and, hockey gods willing, will be getting a nice big suspension and fine from the league for that. The Blades couldn't convert on the penalty. In fact, with goalie Pat Nagle pulled, the Blades gave up an empty net goal to make it 5-2. Shortly after that goal, Everyone's second most hated Glad, Chris Clackson attacked David Rutherford while his back was turned.
He was given a misconduct and thrown out of the game. Donald, Roy, and salter received penalties as well. I guess you shouldn't stick up for your teammate when he's unable to defend himself? I have no idea. The Blades were able to score on that power play to make it 5-3, but the Glads got another empty netter seconds later to make it 6-2.
The Game sheet is here.
The photos I took:
Some thoughts:
- It's a shame the Blades couldn't keep up their play from early in the game. They looked great.
- The Blades passing in that game was as rough looking as it was early in the season.
- If the ECHL wants any respect from me they'll hand down a stiff penalty to Hadad. He's been a very dangerous player for as long as I can remeber, and I'm not talking about scoring.
- I'm really hoping Kyle Lawson is OK. The dude just recently came back from injury.
Worth noting- Looks like Robby Dee was traded to the Bakersfield Condors.
Neither team has announced anything officially. No telling if this was a one sided trade for future considerations or we're getting a much needed defenceman.
This puppy sums up my Blades related feeling perfectly. His smooshy face helps as well.
see more dog and puppy pictures
The Blades started the game dictating the play and being physical. Unfortunately, a momentary lapse, and taking their collective foot off the pedal allowed the Glads to take a 1-0 lead around 14 minutes into the period. Despite some chances, the Blades couldn't convert and the period ended with the score still 1-0.
The Blades were able to make a statement early in the second when Mike McKenzie got a beautiful shot past the Glads goalie to tie things up at the 3:30 mark (assist to Bruess). Unfortunately, a little over three minutes later, the Glads took the lead once again. About eight minutes later, forward Leigh Salters was hit by a nasty high stick that left him cut and bleeding onto the ice. The Glads player guilty of the high sticking received a double minor because of that. Just when it looked like the blades wouldn't be able to make anything happen, David Rutherford ripped one past the Glads goalie to tie things up 2-2 (assists to Roy and Pitt). That late period tally remained the final goal of the period and the teams left the ice with the score still at 2-2.
Unfortunately, the third period was far from pretty or ideal. The Glads were able to take the 3-2 lead early in the period while on the power play. They made it 4-2 about three minutes later. Things were starting to get pretty chippy, and it was obvious the good old nasty Glads were back. To prove that point, Joey Hadad, a player any Blades fan who had been watching for any decent length of time hates with a passion, delivered an elbow to the head of Kyle Lawson. He was thrown out of the game for that hit and, hockey gods willing, will be getting a nice big suspension and fine from the league for that. The Blades couldn't convert on the penalty. In fact, with goalie Pat Nagle pulled, the Blades gave up an empty net goal to make it 5-2. Shortly after that goal, Everyone's second most hated Glad, Chris Clackson attacked David Rutherford while his back was turned.
He was given a misconduct and thrown out of the game. Donald, Roy, and salter received penalties as well. I guess you shouldn't stick up for your teammate when he's unable to defend himself? I have no idea. The Blades were able to score on that power play to make it 5-3, but the Glads got another empty netter seconds later to make it 6-2.
The Game sheet is here.
The photos I took:
Some thoughts:
- It's a shame the Blades couldn't keep up their play from early in the game. They looked great.
- The Blades passing in that game was as rough looking as it was early in the season.
- If the ECHL wants any respect from me they'll hand down a stiff penalty to Hadad. He's been a very dangerous player for as long as I can remeber, and I'm not talking about scoring.
- I'm really hoping Kyle Lawson is OK. The dude just recently came back from injury.
Worth noting- Looks like Robby Dee was traded to the Bakersfield Condors.
This puppy sums up my Blades related feeling perfectly. His smooshy face helps as well.
see more dog and puppy pictures
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
YouTube Tuesday
The Blades play tomorrow night. To help you make until then, I've found one of the funniest things I've seen in a while. I know I've made no secret of my mascot phobia, but even I giggled while watching this video of Chubby, the mascot for our affiliate the Charlotte Checkers, dance. It's just that good.
I'm pretty sure it's impossible to watch that video too many times.
I'm pretty sure it's impossible to watch that video too many times.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Wings (11/26/11)
I'm going to do my best to re-cap a game that I barely heard thanks to radio issues (but they're going to fix a problem that's been happening all season this week! Sigh).
The first was rather uneventful. The usual chance trading, yada, yada, John Muse being awesome, yada, yada. The radio feed cut out at least three times and cut to commercial during important moments twice. Same old same old.
The second was much the same. Matt Beca had an opportunity to give the Blades the lead with a penalty shot early in the period. Unfortunately, the Blades seem to be snakebitten when it comes to penalty shots. No goal. Luckily, during one of the commercial breaks Mike McKenzie was able to give the Blades the 1-0 lead (assist to Devos and Van Dyk). Wish I could tell you what happened on that goal. 770 thought screaming at me about downloading a radio app on to my nonexistent iPhone was more important. The period ended with the Blades still in the lead and some extracurricular activities that were definitely going to result in penalties.
The third period saw both Ryan Donald and a K-Wings player get matching 2 minute roughing penalties as well as 10 minute unsportsmanlike penalties. This was a fantastic set of events since the Blades had already moved Ryan Galiardi, a forward, back to defence to help cover for our thinned out defencive corps. The Blades managed pretty well until the only penalty to be called in the third was slapped down. Because life's not fair, the Blades were on the receiving end. At 13:39 the K-Wings tied it up on the power play and ruined the shut-out Muse deserved. The third period ended with the score tied 1-1. The game would have to be decided by a little sudden death overtime.
Yet again, I heard most of the period, but then... innapropriately timed commercial time, yay! When the game finally comes back on, all you could hear were the ominous sounds of happy K-Zoo fans. I don't have to tell you happy opposing fans means sad Blades fans. Apparently, at 3:38 in the period, the Wings got one past Muse. Of course, I can't tell you how. I'm going to assume it was a total fluke goal because I've decided neither Muse nor Nagle can do any wrong. Either way, the K-Wings won 2-1. Boo.
SOG: 28-40 Wings
Three stars: Mike McKenzie earned the second star the other ywo don't matter.
Some thoughts:
- I just realized I didn't make a single Kory Karlander is old joke. My apologies, here: Kory Karlander is so old he remembers when hockey sticks were carved from mamoth femurs.
- 5 of 6 possible points on the road is awesome. I'm happy with the team right now.
- That said, can we please work on penalty shot/shoot-out situations? We're losing important chances by not taking advantage of these.
- Also, maybe a bit of discipline would be a good idea?
- It would be great to get a defenceman back. Preferably Murray.
The Blades come back for a two full weeks of home games. In there is the annual teddy bear toss game. New this year will be the auction of the bears the players will be making on Monday. I almost want to go witness a roster full of hockey player in Build-a-Bear picking out cute teddy bear outfits. Almost.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Wings (11/25/11)
The Everblades rolled into Kalamazoo with a two game win streak and the challenge of playing one of the better teams in the East. Luckily they were up for the challenge.
It wasn't all sunshine and rainbows though. Former Everblade Elgin Reid notched his first of the year with the first shot of the game at the 1:18 mark of the period to give the K-Wings the early lead. About six minutes later, David Rutherford notched his fifth of the season to tie it up 1-1 (assists to Salters and Van Dyk). That score remained when the period ended and the teams left the ice.
Both teams traded chances in the early part of the second. then, it happened. The Blades found that special something and broke K-Wings goalie Riley Gill's will to live. Trevor Bruess started it off at the 12:47 mark to make it 2-1 (assists to McKenzie and Van Dyk). Not to be outdone, Rutherford notched his second of the game with the prettiest goal ever on the power play to make it 3-1 at the 15:47 mark (assists to Roy and McKenzie). Mathieu Roy followed that up with a re-directed goal for a little extra insurance at 17:33 to make it 4-1 (assists to Fischer and Salters). At that point the K-Wings pulled Riley Gill to wake up the team and maybe give the poor sieve-tastic goalie some time to weep in the showers by himself. It put a hamper on the Blades domination, and the period ended with the Blades up 4-1.
The K-Wings tried their hardest to get back in the third, peppering Blades Goalie Pat Nagle with 22 shots over the course of the final period. Unfortunately for them, Nagle was in full beast mode. Nothing was getting by him. Even with about a minute of 5 on 3, the K-Wings could not find a way to score. There were some close calls of course. The most intense was easily the moment around 15:53 when David Fischer had to play goalie. Unfortunately, he was whistled for closing his hand on the puck during that play and the K-Wings had a chance to score on the penalty shot.
Boom, denied. The Wings just couldn't make anything work. To add insult to injury, David Rutherford was able to earn a hat-trick with an empty-netter just as the buzzer sounded (assist to McKenzie) to make it 5-1.
-The Game summary is here.
- Three stars:
3. A K-Wings player that didn't deserve it.
2. David Rutherford
1. Pat Nagle
-A video of the K-Wings coach making excuses and not giving Pat Nagle any deserved credit:
Some thoughts:
- 1 for 7 on the power play and 5-5 on the penalty kill? I'm a happy lady.
- Three assists for McKenzie, and two for Salters and Van Dyk respectively. Awesome.
- 46 saves on 47 shots is incredible. I want a Pat Nagle shirt so I can wear it constantly.
- Since Poss seems to give the start to the goalie that's been winning I'd bet Nagle will be in net tonight against K-Zoo.
- There's also some rumblings about Brian Boucher with the Canes being hurt or at least not up to playing. The domino of call-ups will no doubt pull John Muse away.
The Blades will play the K-Wings again tonight. Let's hope they can extend their win streak to four. This calls for a puppy (they've been so lucky lately):
see more dog and puppy pictures
It wasn't all sunshine and rainbows though. Former Everblade Elgin Reid notched his first of the year with the first shot of the game at the 1:18 mark of the period to give the K-Wings the early lead. About six minutes later, David Rutherford notched his fifth of the season to tie it up 1-1 (assists to Salters and Van Dyk). That score remained when the period ended and the teams left the ice.
Both teams traded chances in the early part of the second. then, it happened. The Blades found that special something and broke K-Wings goalie Riley Gill's will to live. Trevor Bruess started it off at the 12:47 mark to make it 2-1 (assists to McKenzie and Van Dyk). Not to be outdone, Rutherford notched his second of the game with the prettiest goal ever on the power play to make it 3-1 at the 15:47 mark (assists to Roy and McKenzie). Mathieu Roy followed that up with a re-directed goal for a little extra insurance at 17:33 to make it 4-1 (assists to Fischer and Salters). At that point the K-Wings pulled Riley Gill to wake up the team and maybe give the poor sieve-tastic goalie some time to weep in the showers by himself. It put a hamper on the Blades domination, and the period ended with the Blades up 4-1.
The K-Wings tried their hardest to get back in the third, peppering Blades Goalie Pat Nagle with 22 shots over the course of the final period. Unfortunately for them, Nagle was in full beast mode. Nothing was getting by him. Even with about a minute of 5 on 3, the K-Wings could not find a way to score. There were some close calls of course. The most intense was easily the moment around 15:53 when David Fischer had to play goalie. Unfortunately, he was whistled for closing his hand on the puck during that play and the K-Wings had a chance to score on the penalty shot.
 |
| My research indicates that Nagle is an Irish surname that means "brick wall" |
Boom, denied. The Wings just couldn't make anything work. To add insult to injury, David Rutherford was able to earn a hat-trick with an empty-netter just as the buzzer sounded (assist to McKenzie) to make it 5-1.
 | ||
| Camo seemed appropriate for down here |
- Three stars:
3. A K-Wings player that didn't deserve it.
2. David Rutherford
1. Pat Nagle
-A video of the K-Wings coach making excuses and not giving Pat Nagle any deserved credit:
Some thoughts:
- 1 for 7 on the power play and 5-5 on the penalty kill? I'm a happy lady.
- Three assists for McKenzie, and two for Salters and Van Dyk respectively. Awesome.
- 46 saves on 47 shots is incredible. I want a Pat Nagle shirt so I can wear it constantly.
- Since Poss seems to give the start to the goalie that's been winning I'd bet Nagle will be in net tonight against K-Zoo.
- There's also some rumblings about Brian Boucher with the Canes being hurt or at least not up to playing. The domino of call-ups will no doubt pull John Muse away.
The Blades will play the K-Wings again tonight. Let's hope they can extend their win streak to four. This calls for a puppy (they've been so lucky lately):
see more dog and puppy pictures
Friday, November 25, 2011
Friday Links
I'm still shaking off the turkey day sluggishness. Lucky for you guys, I've managed to pull myself off the couch long enough to serve you some nice, fresh, links. You read that right. No slightly dry leftover links for you guys. No gravy necessary.
- Third String Goalie is being awesome as usual with their take on Black Friday.
- Um, yuck. Remind me to not eat in Ohio if I happen to ever in end up there.
- Your Wikipedia hockey page for today- "Ice Hockey Australia." Of course their logo is a kangaroo with a hockey stick. What else would they use?
- Ok, this cake is just plain awesome. I don't even care about it being Flyers themed.
- I have no idea how useful a Nashville Predators themed birdhouse is, but it's out there just enough to be funny.
- Another puppy picture since they've been working pretty well.
see more dog and puppy pictures
By the way, it's an Everblades game night. They play the first of a two game series with Kalamazoo tonight. Oh, and they beat Toledo Wednesday. I was distracted by the whole Sidney Crosby's second game back hubbub. Sorry?
- Third String Goalie is being awesome as usual with their take on Black Friday.
- Um, yuck. Remind me to not eat in Ohio if I happen to ever in end up there.
- Your Wikipedia hockey page for today- "Ice Hockey Australia." Of course their logo is a kangaroo with a hockey stick. What else would they use?
- Ok, this cake is just plain awesome. I don't even care about it being Flyers themed.
- I have no idea how useful a Nashville Predators themed birdhouse is, but it's out there just enough to be funny.
- Another puppy picture since they've been working pretty well.
see more dog and puppy pictures
By the way, it's an Everblades game night. They play the first of a two game series with Kalamazoo tonight. Oh, and they beat Toledo Wednesday. I was distracted by the whole Sidney Crosby's second game back hubbub. Sorry?
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
YouTube Tuesday
While I feel like I'm obligated as a hockey blogger to find a way to make this post about Sidney Crosby, I'm just going to skip that. Instead, Let's enjoy fight videos from the recent series with Greenville.
First up, Luc Tardif, who has somehow become tied for second in fighting majors on the Everblades.
Not to be outdone (or pushed out of his tie for second either), David Rutherford takes on one of my least favorite players in the division.
On another note, the photos from Friday's game are up on Flickr. Enjoy!
First up, Luc Tardif, who has somehow become tied for second in fighting majors on the Everblades.
Not to be outdone (or pushed out of his tie for second either), David Rutherford takes on one of my least favorite players in the division.
On another note, the photos from Friday's game are up on Flickr. Enjoy!
Friday, November 18, 2011
Friday Links
It's finally an Everblades game night. Here's hoping all the time off has been good for the guys.
- The players are wearing special jerseys tonight, and they'll be auctioned off tomorrow (anyone want to grab Bruess' for me? I'd love you forever).
- I went to see the Penguins take on the Lightning last night. Here are the pictures if you're interested.
- This is a neat old Cleveland Crusaders t-shirt.
- Your Wikipedia hockey page for today- "Cleveland Crusaders"
- How neat are these cupcakes?!
- Anyone know when exactly this Everblades warm-up was worn? I've never seen one around the rink.
- This really isn't hockey related, but I can resist. Connect some famous men from the 19th century to their facial hair.
- I'm still hoping the puppies are good luck. Mostly because of this little guys adorable face.
see more dog and puppy pictures
- The players are wearing special jerseys tonight, and they'll be auctioned off tomorrow (anyone want to grab Bruess' for me? I'd love you forever).
- I went to see the Penguins take on the Lightning last night. Here are the pictures if you're interested.
- This is a neat old Cleveland Crusaders t-shirt.
- Your Wikipedia hockey page for today- "Cleveland Crusaders"
- How neat are these cupcakes?!
- Anyone know when exactly this Everblades warm-up was worn? I've never seen one around the rink.
- This really isn't hockey related, but I can resist. Connect some famous men from the 19th century to their facial hair.
- I'm still hoping the puppies are good luck. Mostly because of this little guys adorable face.
see more dog and puppy pictures
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
YouTube Tuesday
Today's YouTube Tuesday is a video round-up of the Wheeling Florida series.
First up, the video of the nasty hit on Kyle Lawson and David Rutherford's first fight as an Everblades:
Next up, the highlights of the 11/9 game courtesy of the Nailers. I'm pretty sure Roy going puck hunting under delmas is what got him off of his game so bad in that period. I'm also sure that I wanted blood after Muse was run over.
Side note: I could re-watch Bruess' goal a million times. So awesome.
Last, the highlights from the 11/11 game. Oh man, thinking of that game still gives me happy feelings.
Sadly (but not really), there doesn't appear to be any highlights from Saturday's loss. Too bad.
First up, the video of the nasty hit on Kyle Lawson and David Rutherford's first fight as an Everblades:
Next up, the highlights of the 11/9 game courtesy of the Nailers. I'm pretty sure Roy going puck hunting under delmas is what got him off of his game so bad in that period. I'm also sure that I wanted blood after Muse was run over.
Side note: I could re-watch Bruess' goal a million times. So awesome.
Last, the highlights from the 11/11 game. Oh man, thinking of that game still gives me happy feelings.
Sadly (but not really), there doesn't appear to be any highlights from Saturday's loss. Too bad.
Monday, November 14, 2011
News and Notes
The Blades may not have swept the Nailers, but winning two of three games against one of the best teams in the ECHL is nothing to laugh at. I'm not going to do a re-cap of Saturday's game since I heard only around 15 minutes of it thanks to radio issues and I refuse to write my re-caps off of game notes.
-I do have the pictures from Friday's game:
-This is my favorite from the set. Leigh Salters' goal!
-I have a video or two to get up on to YouTube and I'll post those videos along with some others I've found in a big round-up tomorrow.
- It appears that the Nailers player that boarded Kyle Lawson will not be suspended or fined. Super.
- Right before Saturday's game the Blades announced they received Scott Fletcher in a trade from Toledo. I suggest checking him out on YouTube. Dude can throw some bombs.
The Players have a week off until Fridays game. Hopefully, we can get some players healthy.
-I do have the pictures from Friday's game:
-This is my favorite from the set. Leigh Salters' goal!
-I have a video or two to get up on to YouTube and I'll post those videos along with some others I've found in a big round-up tomorrow.
- It appears that the Nailers player that boarded Kyle Lawson will not be suspended or fined. Super.
- Right before Saturday's game the Blades announced they received Scott Fletcher in a trade from Toledo. I suggest checking him out on YouTube. Dude can throw some bombs.
The Players have a week off until Fridays game. Hopefully, we can get some players healthy.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Nailers (11/11/11)
After Wednesday's game, I figured the Nailers would come out with something to prove Friday. Unfortunately for them, the Blades are playing like their families are being held hostage and the ransom is a 10 game win streak.
The first half of the first period was relatively quiet (both figuratively and literally, we really need to make some noise during games guys) until almost 12 minutes into the game when DJ Rutherford netted his third of the season (Galiardi with the assist). Shortly after that the Ref realized he hadn't made a single call and the period was almost over. Thus, the biggest BS call Germain has seen in a long time was made. Goalie John Muse received a penalty for playing the puck outside of the crease. I can't even describe how stupid opting to penalize a goalie for something they all do is. Whatever, Robby Dee was there to fix everything. He netted an unassisted shortie for his fifth goal of the season. The Nailers were able to convert on their next power play unfortunately and the period saw the Blades holding only a 2-1 lead.
Thankfully, Alex Hutchings was able to convert on a power play that had carried over from the 1st 33 seconds into the second for his fifth of the season (Rutherford and Dee with assists). The Nailers got one past Muse a little over a minute later to narrow the lead again. The score stood at 3-2 until Leigh Salters netted his fourth of the season around the 11 minute mark (assists to Lawson and Galiardi). About two minutes later Nailers goalie Patrick Killeen took exception to Ryan Donald cooling him off with a little flurry of ice and tried to fight for the second time in the series. The Blades left the ice up 4-2 on the Nailers.
A little over five minutes into the third, Hutchings scored his second of the night to give the Blades a three goal lead (assists to Rutherford and Roy). Shortly after that, one of the Nailers delivered nasty check on Kyle Lawson. Sending him head first into the boards and leaving him dazed. Rutherford flew in to get some justice (and did pretty well getting it). Matt Beca netted his first of the season once the penalties were worked out to make it 6-2 (assist to Salters). Hutchings followed with his third of the night to make it 7-2 and earn a hat trick.
Some Thoughts:
- Muse stopped 32 of 34 shots. He's on fire right now.
- Two for four on the power play? I'll happily take that.
- Dee's shortie on a PK caused by a BS call was delicious. There was no better way to give the ol' middle finger to the ref than that.
- Gordie Howe hat trick for Rutherford. Awesome.
- How fun is it to watch Hutchings? If he doesn't end up with some NHL time I will be quite a sad lady.
- Bruess might not really land on the scoresheet too much but, Sweet Caroline, I love watching him. The dude does not quit when he wants the puck.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Friday Links
It's an Everblades game day you guys! The took down one of the best teams in the conference Wednesday, and they take them on again tonight. On top of that it's Veterans day. Hockey and a day celebrating brave men and women who fight for their country? Pretty awesome combination.
- I found pure gold over on eBay. I usually troll the site for interesting jerseys from defunct ECHL teams (lamest jersey collection ever?) and this one came up. I can't recall ever seeing a Renegades jersey before. Too bad it's a youth jersey.
- That made selecting your Wikipedia hockey page for today easy- "Richmond Renegades"
- I wish I could share the picture but I can't. Do click on this link and check out the first hockey fight cake I've ever come across. It's too funny.
- Oh man, WANT. So cool, but I'm not dropping $60 on anything. No matter how "vintage" it is.
- Third String Goalie is celebrating 11/11/11 by chronicling the greatest players to wear 11.
- The puppies will keep coming as long as the streak keeps going. How adorable is that face?!
see more dog and puppy pictures
- I found pure gold over on eBay. I usually troll the site for interesting jerseys from defunct ECHL teams (lamest jersey collection ever?) and this one came up. I can't recall ever seeing a Renegades jersey before. Too bad it's a youth jersey.
- That made selecting your Wikipedia hockey page for today easy- "Richmond Renegades"
- I wish I could share the picture but I can't. Do click on this link and check out the first hockey fight cake I've ever come across. It's too funny.
- Oh man, WANT. So cool, but I'm not dropping $60 on anything. No matter how "vintage" it is.
- Third String Goalie is celebrating 11/11/11 by chronicling the greatest players to wear 11.
- The puppies will keep coming as long as the streak keeps going. How adorable is that face?!
see more dog and puppy pictures
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Nailers (11/9/11)
After finishing off their marathon nine game road trip, it would be easy to understand if the guys had come out a little tired looking in their first game back. I guess the Blades got some good relaxation time in on the beach, because they looked great.
The Blades managed to score 4 goals in the span of around six minutes. Luc Tardif led the charge netting his second of the year at the 12:22 mark (assists to Rutherford and Raymond). About three minutes later, Leigh Salters netted his third of the year (assist to Galiardi). Around a minute later Trevor Bruess scored his first of the year (assisted by Galiardi and Raymond) with an awesome behind the back shot that I really hope someone got a video of. Two minutes later, Chris Murray netted his third of the year on the power play (assists to Devos and Rutherford). The period ended with the Blades up 4-0. Of course, the period was not without drama. Chris Murray ended up mixing it up with one of the Nailers in what I assume was a pathetic attempt at breathing some life into a team that had been playing flat.
As could be expected, the Nailers opted to switch goalies between periods. Out was Peter Delmas, the goalie who gave up four goals on eleven shots. In was my favorite crazy visiting goalie from last season, Patrick Killeen. He proved my initial judgement of him correct when a little over five minutes into the game he tried to fight Leigh Salters after mishandling the puck. You read that right. The Nailers goalie went after the guy who is pretty much our enforcer (who, to be fair, seems to have quite the scoring touch at the moment). Salters ended up fighting former Everblade Scott Hothams brother Andrew. Guess who got it on video?
There was really no other occurrences beyond a Nailers goal in the latter half of the period to make it 4-1. Of course, once the horn sounded at the end of the period, the Nailers got up to their old tricks again. This time several scrums erupted, including one involving Matt Beca. It was kind of crazy.
The third was really not much to talk about. Neither team was really able to do anything, and the guys in stripes put away their whistles for the most part. The final score was 4-1.
Game summary here.
Photos from last night:
Some thoughts:
- Holy Moose. John Muse has definitely earned the starting gig. He certainly is a fun goalie to watch. That last ditch save in the first gave me a heart attack... in a good way.
- Pat Nagle should get a start in one of the Back to back games Friday or Saturday. Hopefully, he's had a chance to catch his breath and get to a better place. One would hope the guys keep up their solid play to help him out.
- I have a feeling this game was the first one the Everblades were out-shot in. 28-16, wow.
- My new jersey is 3-0 in the regular season. Boom.
The Blades managed to score 4 goals in the span of around six minutes. Luc Tardif led the charge netting his second of the year at the 12:22 mark (assists to Rutherford and Raymond). About three minutes later, Leigh Salters netted his third of the year (assist to Galiardi). Around a minute later Trevor Bruess scored his first of the year (assisted by Galiardi and Raymond) with an awesome behind the back shot that I really hope someone got a video of. Two minutes later, Chris Murray netted his third of the year on the power play (assists to Devos and Rutherford). The period ended with the Blades up 4-0. Of course, the period was not without drama. Chris Murray ended up mixing it up with one of the Nailers in what I assume was a pathetic attempt at breathing some life into a team that had been playing flat.
As could be expected, the Nailers opted to switch goalies between periods. Out was Peter Delmas, the goalie who gave up four goals on eleven shots. In was my favorite crazy visiting goalie from last season, Patrick Killeen. He proved my initial judgement of him correct when a little over five minutes into the game he tried to fight Leigh Salters after mishandling the puck. You read that right. The Nailers goalie went after the guy who is pretty much our enforcer (who, to be fair, seems to have quite the scoring touch at the moment). Salters ended up fighting former Everblade Scott Hothams brother Andrew. Guess who got it on video?
There was really no other occurrences beyond a Nailers goal in the latter half of the period to make it 4-1. Of course, once the horn sounded at the end of the period, the Nailers got up to their old tricks again. This time several scrums erupted, including one involving Matt Beca. It was kind of crazy.
The third was really not much to talk about. Neither team was really able to do anything, and the guys in stripes put away their whistles for the most part. The final score was 4-1.
Game summary here.
Photos from last night:
Some thoughts:
- Holy Moose. John Muse has definitely earned the starting gig. He certainly is a fun goalie to watch. That last ditch save in the first gave me a heart attack... in a good way.
- Pat Nagle should get a start in one of the Back to back games Friday or Saturday. Hopefully, he's had a chance to catch his breath and get to a better place. One would hope the guys keep up their solid play to help him out.
- I have a feeling this game was the first one the Everblades were out-shot in. 28-16, wow.
- My new jersey is 3-0 in the regular season. Boom.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
YouTube Tuesday
I'd like to take you back in time for this YouTube Tuesday.
Picture it, 2000. The new millennium has just started. The whole world didn't end due to that whole Y2K thing. Bill Clinton is president. Oops!... I Did it Again is on heavy rotation.Can it really get any better?
Oh yes it can...
That would be 2000-01 Everblades goalie Bujar Amidovski. He doesn't hold any Everblades records, but it's OK. Goalie fights really do make up for almost anything.
Picture it, 2000. The new millennium has just started. The whole world didn't end due to that whole Y2K thing. Bill Clinton is president. Oops!... I Did it Again is on heavy rotation.Can it really get any better?
Oh yes it can...
That would be 2000-01 Everblades goalie Bujar Amidovski. He doesn't hold any Everblades records, but it's OK. Goalie fights really do make up for almost anything.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Road Warriors
Well, it looks like the ship might really be starting to right itself. Obviously only managing three wins in a nine game road trip isn't ideal, but these last two wins have been great.
The Blades opened up the scoring with a power play tally from Chris Murray (assists to Hutchings and Beca). Around the 3:24 mark, Robby Dee had a chance to make it 2-0 with a penalty shot, but was unsuccessful. Mike McKenzie fought (his second or third of the season I believe) around the 19:24. A few seconds later Greenville was able to slip one past goalie John Muse to tie the game 1-1.
The Blades knew how to respond though. They came out in the opening minutes of the second and took the lead once again with a goal from captain Mathieu Roy (assists to Hutchings and Murray). Less than two minutes later Robby Dee notched his fourth of the season (assist to Rutherford) to make it 3-1. Greenville responded and narrowed the Blades lead to 3-2 at the 8:26 mark.
Luckily, the third period saw the Blades start on the power play and they were able to convert with Murray's second power play goal of the game (assists to Hutchings and McGinnis) 48 seconds into the period. The Road Warriors came on strong but the Blades were able to hold them off. In the closing minutes of the period the Blades were called for a penalty. The Road Warriors opted to pull their goalie for the extra attacker. Luckily, the Blades appear to relish playing two men down. The guys enjoyed it so much Ryan Donald decided to score a short handed empty netter during the 6 on 4. The final buzzer sounded and the Blades skated off with their 5-2 win.
Some thoughts:
- So, uh, I'm thinking the best plan for our power play is to pass it to Murray and let him do his thing. Sheesh.
- Three points for him by the way.
- Roobby Dee is quietly doing his thing, and doing it well, isn't he?
- If he keeps playing the way he's been playing John Muse won't have any competition for the starting job.
- The Blades haven't been able to convert on a penalty shot (they've had two or three attempts) and lost a game in the shoot-out. I'm thinking that might be a good thing to work on.
- *insert usual comment about turnovers and defensive breakdowns*
- *insert usial comment about how awesome it is shot blocking is happening a lot*
The Blades are off until Wednesday. First home game in like two weeks? $2 wine? I don't know about you guys, but I'll be pacing outside the arena three hours before the gates open.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Stingrays (11/4/11)
Well, it was bound to happen at some point. Looks like the train is back on the tracks.
Of course, the question is can the Blades actually get the train moving?
Since that remains to be seen, we'll have to be content with a solid win over an offensive powerhouse.
The only goal of the game came in the latter half of the first. Ryan McGinnis netted one with an assist from D.J: Rutherford. The Blades dominated the first peppering the Rays goalie with 12 shots. They also continued to limit the Rays offense to only 7 shots.
They continued the same throughout the second and into the third. Although they had some fantastic chances they just couldn't get anything in. It didn't matter though, John Muse did his best impression of a brick wall and denied everything. In the end, the Blades came away with a well deserved win. They weren't perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but it was a good win when it was badly needed.
Some thoughts:
- The Blades were 0 for 4 on the power play. Not good, but not the end of the world.
- It feels like a lot of goals are coming from our defense. I need to sit down and look to be sure. A goals a goal, but that's not really something I want to see continue, and the defensive breakdowns have been killing us.
- Remember me mentioning Muse having an opportunity to step up? He did. First professional shut-out and some spectacular, game changing, saves. If he keeps it up, he can carry the team.
- The shot blocking almost makes up for all the turnovers and breakdowns. Almost.
The Blades play their last game of the 9 game (seriously ECHL, what bullshit) roadtrip tonight in Greenville. This should be a very telling game. Either they keep it up or they take a couple of steps back.
Don't uncross your finger just yet people.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Friday Links
I know things haven't been going well in Blades land. Lucky for you guys I'm here to keep your minds off of it with some spectacular links.
- I do have to mention this bad news. Remember that boarding call (and the awesome penalty kill that resulted) on Dominic D'Amour? He was fined and suspended for three games. That means the Blades won't have his services for tonight or tomorrows games and the first home game against Wheeling. Super.
- Good thing I found an awesome cake that can cheer you up!
- I got so excited when I found this website that details how to build and maintain a hockey rink in your backyard... then I remembered I live in Florida. Not cool.
- Sadly, that makes this Zamboni for sale pretty useless. Unless... are Zamboni street legal?
- Great story about the Jr. Everblades (not to be confused with the Jr. Blades) bringing another banner to add with all the others.
- This 05 Blades season ticket holder jersey is pretty neat. The price is nice as well.
- I squealed like a little girl when I saw how adorable this little guy is. How freaking cute can he be?!
- I'm really pumped about the new franchise in Orlando. Icethetics found out (scroll down to the last story) that the chances of the old IHL Solar Bears name being used again are pretty much for sure since it appears that the ECHL now owns the Solar Bears logo and trademark. Awesome.
- By the way, your Wikipedia hockey page of the day? Easy- "Orlando Solar Bears"
- It occurs to me that sometimes, when you're in a funk, it's best to mix things up. Therefore, I've decided to post a puppy picture, rather than a kitty picture, to inspire the Blades. Also, come on, that face! Look at that face! I just want to baby talk that jowly little face!
see more dog and puppy pictures
- I do have to mention this bad news. Remember that boarding call (and the awesome penalty kill that resulted) on Dominic D'Amour? He was fined and suspended for three games. That means the Blades won't have his services for tonight or tomorrows games and the first home game against Wheeling. Super.
- Good thing I found an awesome cake that can cheer you up!
- I got so excited when I found this website that details how to build and maintain a hockey rink in your backyard... then I remembered I live in Florida. Not cool.
- Sadly, that makes this Zamboni for sale pretty useless. Unless... are Zamboni street legal?
- Great story about the Jr. Everblades (not to be confused with the Jr. Blades) bringing another banner to add with all the others.
- This 05 Blades season ticket holder jersey is pretty neat. The price is nice as well.
- I squealed like a little girl when I saw how adorable this little guy is. How freaking cute can he be?!
- I'm really pumped about the new franchise in Orlando. Icethetics found out (scroll down to the last story) that the chances of the old IHL Solar Bears name being used again are pretty much for sure since it appears that the ECHL now owns the Solar Bears logo and trademark. Awesome.
- By the way, your Wikipedia hockey page of the day? Easy- "Orlando Solar Bears"
- It occurs to me that sometimes, when you're in a funk, it's best to mix things up. Therefore, I've decided to post a puppy picture, rather than a kitty picture, to inspire the Blades. Also, come on, that face! Look at that face! I just want to baby talk that jowly little face!
see more dog and puppy pictures
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Stingrays (11/2/11)
Well, it looks like the ship still hasn't righted itself. The Blades lost yet another game last night. That makes it four losses in a row. Somehow, they're not last in the league, but good lord. Something has to give or improve.
The game was the usual chippy affair that always comes against South division opponents. Giving up a goal one minute into the period didn't help. Leigh Salters mixed it up around six and a half minutes into the period, and one of the Stingrays tried to fight Luc Tardif (that's the best way I can describe whatever that was).
The Stingrays maintained their 1-0 lead until about five minutes into the game when Salters basically insured he'll be know as "the only dude actually trying" to Blades fans. Assists on that goal went to Tardif and D'Amour. Unfortunately, a few minutes later, Dominic D'Amour was called for a boarding major, two minutes into the five minute penalty kill, Matt Beca was called for hooking. Somehow, the black cloud that's been hovering over the Everblades dissipated long enough to kill off around three minutes of 5 on 3. Luckily for the Stingrays, the black cloud reappeared in the closing minutes of the period allowing them to make it 2-1. A few minutes after that goal, the Rays decided to go after Dominic D'Amour. While he was on the bench. Oh yeah, you read that right. Somehow, the Blades ended up with more penalties. I guess you have no right to defend a fellow player when an opposing player goes after one of your guys. Maybe it's a new rule? I don't know.
Either way, that penalty carried over to the third, and what do you know, the Stingrays were able to convert. Fabulous. That goal made it 3-1 and another goal in the closing minutes of the period made it 4-1.
The game notes are here.
Right now it feels like the guys take one step forward and then ten steps back. At the very least, the defense breakdowns need to stop. I've lost count of how many goals have been scored this way. We've been lucky to have pretty reliable goalies who are used to how defense is played in the ECHL.
Pat Nagle is not one of those goalies. He's a rookie goalie with no professional experience until this point. Add the fact that he's not getting dedicated time (actually, I'm betting none at all) from a goalie coach and you're looking at trouble. I'm pretty sure any confidence he has is hanging on by sheer force of will. Until he gets his confidence up, or we can be sure John Muse will be around enough to give him time, the defense has to be better than they need to be.
Of course, that's assuming Muse can step up and be our top goalie ow that he's been sent back.
Who knows if that's going to happen.
Ugh. I don't want to think about this anymore. This calls for the one thing that can make you forget about crappy stuff. Yes. This calls for the Holy Hand Grenade (why yes, that was a reference to the one of the funniest movies ever, you're welcome) of Cuteness:
see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!
Pray to whatever being you believe in, maybe sacrifice something to the hockey gods, and go through all your good luck routines guys. Every little bit certainly won't hurt for the games on Friday and Saturday.
Me, I'm going to buy a big bottle of cheap wine. Everything is better with cheap wine.
The game was the usual chippy affair that always comes against South division opponents. Giving up a goal one minute into the period didn't help. Leigh Salters mixed it up around six and a half minutes into the period, and one of the Stingrays tried to fight Luc Tardif (that's the best way I can describe whatever that was).
The Stingrays maintained their 1-0 lead until about five minutes into the game when Salters basically insured he'll be know as "the only dude actually trying" to Blades fans. Assists on that goal went to Tardif and D'Amour. Unfortunately, a few minutes later, Dominic D'Amour was called for a boarding major, two minutes into the five minute penalty kill, Matt Beca was called for hooking. Somehow, the black cloud that's been hovering over the Everblades dissipated long enough to kill off around three minutes of 5 on 3. Luckily for the Stingrays, the black cloud reappeared in the closing minutes of the period allowing them to make it 2-1. A few minutes after that goal, the Rays decided to go after Dominic D'Amour. While he was on the bench. Oh yeah, you read that right. Somehow, the Blades ended up with more penalties. I guess you have no right to defend a fellow player when an opposing player goes after one of your guys. Maybe it's a new rule? I don't know.
Either way, that penalty carried over to the third, and what do you know, the Stingrays were able to convert. Fabulous. That goal made it 3-1 and another goal in the closing minutes of the period made it 4-1.
The game notes are here.
Right now it feels like the guys take one step forward and then ten steps back. At the very least, the defense breakdowns need to stop. I've lost count of how many goals have been scored this way. We've been lucky to have pretty reliable goalies who are used to how defense is played in the ECHL.
Pat Nagle is not one of those goalies. He's a rookie goalie with no professional experience until this point. Add the fact that he's not getting dedicated time (actually, I'm betting none at all) from a goalie coach and you're looking at trouble. I'm pretty sure any confidence he has is hanging on by sheer force of will. Until he gets his confidence up, or we can be sure John Muse will be around enough to give him time, the defense has to be better than they need to be.
Of course, that's assuming Muse can step up and be our top goalie ow that he's been sent back.
Who knows if that's going to happen.
Ugh. I don't want to think about this anymore. This calls for the one thing that can make you forget about crappy stuff. Yes. This calls for the Holy Hand Grenade (why yes, that was a reference to the one of the funniest movies ever, you're welcome) of Cuteness:
see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!
Pray to whatever being you believe in, maybe sacrifice something to the hockey gods, and go through all your good luck routines guys. Every little bit certainly won't hurt for the games on Friday and Saturday.
Me, I'm going to buy a big bottle of cheap wine. Everything is better with cheap wine.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Gladiators (11/1/11)
The Blades rolled into Gwinnett in a pretty bad place. They've slid into last place in the South Division. Luckily, for both them and us, they're not last in the conference. Of course, third to last isn't too much better than last.
Needless to say, a win was sorely needed.
A rather uneventful first included delays due to on-ice officials having a skate malfunction and being unable to convert on back-to-back penalties. Both teams left the ice with the score tied 0-0.
The second period saw former Everblade Tyler Helfrich open up the scoring for the Gladiators a little over eight minutes into the period. A little over a minute later, Philip-Michael Devos was able to score on the power play. Assists went to Murray and Fischer. In the closing minutes of the second period, Alex Hutchings was able to give the Blades the 2-1 lead. Assists on that goal went to Pitt and Van Dyk.
That lead would be short lived however. About four minutes into the third the Gladiators were able to tie it up with a flukey goal.
Oh, hey, look at this, highlights of the game. Including the flukey goal that tied the game.
With about eight minutes left in the period, the Glads took the lead and, as it's been lately, the Blades just couldn't get it back. They ended up losing 3-2.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!
The full game summary is here.
I'm not ready to push the panic button yet. I'm very willing to give them a when they're in the middle of a nine game road trip. Obviously, it would be nice if they could pull of a win in the next two games. My concern is how well they fare against Wheeling and Greenville in the home games that start next week. Until I see them in person, rather than a blurry image on B2, I'm not ready to make any call.
Needless to say, a win was sorely needed.
A rather uneventful first included delays due to on-ice officials having a skate malfunction and being unable to convert on back-to-back penalties. Both teams left the ice with the score tied 0-0.
The second period saw former Everblade Tyler Helfrich open up the scoring for the Gladiators a little over eight minutes into the period. A little over a minute later, Philip-Michael Devos was able to score on the power play. Assists went to Murray and Fischer. In the closing minutes of the second period, Alex Hutchings was able to give the Blades the 2-1 lead. Assists on that goal went to Pitt and Van Dyk.
That lead would be short lived however. About four minutes into the third the Gladiators were able to tie it up with a flukey goal.
Oh, hey, look at this, highlights of the game. Including the flukey goal that tied the game.
With about eight minutes left in the period, the Glads took the lead and, as it's been lately, the Blades just couldn't get it back. They ended up losing 3-2.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!
The full game summary is here.
I'm not ready to push the panic button yet. I'm very willing to give them a when they're in the middle of a nine game road trip. Obviously, it would be nice if they could pull of a win in the next two games. My concern is how well they fare against Wheeling and Greenville in the home games that start next week. Until I see them in person, rather than a blurry image on B2, I'm not ready to make any call.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
YouTube Tuesday
Well, the weekend series didn't go to well for the Blades. They lost both games by giving up leads. It hasn't been pretty at all. I'm going to be optimistic and hope this is just a very early slump and things will pick up soon.
Until then, why not enjoy Leigh Salters handing a beat down to one of my least favorite players in the ECHL.
I'm sure T.J. Reynolds is a very nice person off the ice, but I've been an Everblades fan long enough to dislike him intensely.
Until then, why not enjoy Leigh Salters handing a beat down to one of my least favorite players in the ECHL.
I'm sure T.J. Reynolds is a very nice person off the ice, but I've been an Everblades fan long enough to dislike him intensely.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Friday Links
It's that time again! Here's your weekly serving of fresh links.
- Write this down: Saturday's game in Greenville was moved to 2:05. I'm probably going to forget, but I'd lose my head if it wasn't attached to my neck.
- I wrote my first post for the Chasing Checkers blog. The plan is for me to write an update on the Hurricane and Checkers prospects we have. The best part of this whole arrangement is the fact that I know have an editor! Anyone who's read this blog knows that while I excel at photography, snark, and finding random hockey related crap, I'm not very good in the grammar and punctuation departments.
- Remember Scott Darling, the goalie from training camp? Yeah, we signed him. Obviously, we won't be seeing Muse anytime soon and the powers that be decided Pat Nagle is not the kind of goalie you can hang out to dry every single night and still get a win. It will be interesting to see what game, if any, Darling gets to start in. My best guess? One of the games with the Greenville Road Warriors. They're currently the second worst team in the conference. They've score 8 goals and given up 17.
- Your Wikipedia hockey page for today- "Canadian Women's Hockey League"
- I'm always in awe of what some people can do with cake and fondant:
- I would love this clock if it had any other logo on it.
- If you don't read Down Goes Brown you have no sense of humor. Today's post is one of his best.
- Mental Floss is one of my favorite magazines (I always managed to finagle a subscription from one of my family members around Christmas), they just released this quiz in honor of hockey season starting at the same time as dental hygiene month.
- Kitty time!
see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!
- Write this down: Saturday's game in Greenville was moved to 2:05. I'm probably going to forget, but I'd lose my head if it wasn't attached to my neck.
- I wrote my first post for the Chasing Checkers blog. The plan is for me to write an update on the Hurricane and Checkers prospects we have. The best part of this whole arrangement is the fact that I know have an editor! Anyone who's read this blog knows that while I excel at photography, snark, and finding random hockey related crap, I'm not very good in the grammar and punctuation departments.
- Remember Scott Darling, the goalie from training camp? Yeah, we signed him. Obviously, we won't be seeing Muse anytime soon and the powers that be decided Pat Nagle is not the kind of goalie you can hang out to dry every single night and still get a win. It will be interesting to see what game, if any, Darling gets to start in. My best guess? One of the games with the Greenville Road Warriors. They're currently the second worst team in the conference. They've score 8 goals and given up 17.
- Your Wikipedia hockey page for today- "Canadian Women's Hockey League"
- I'm always in awe of what some people can do with cake and fondant:
- I would love this clock if it had any other logo on it.
- If you don't read Down Goes Brown you have no sense of humor. Today's post is one of his best.
- Mental Floss is one of my favorite magazines (I always managed to finagle a subscription from one of my family members around Christmas), they just released this quiz in honor of hockey season starting at the same time as dental hygiene month.
- Kitty time!
see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
YouTube Tuesday
The Blades only managed to get two points out of their marathon road trip. Suprisingly, their best showing came from the third game in three nights.
To celebrate, lets watch Trevor Bruess take on one of the Royals. This came a few minutes after the Blades scored their third unanswered goal in the first period.
I'm pretty sure I'm not the only Everblades fan that's really begun to like Trevor Bruess. The dude is half sandpaper, half canonball.
In happy news, Justin Shugg was named player of the week. Congrats dude! This led to me finding out some people refer to him as the Shuggernaut. Pretty sure that's one of the best hockey nicknames ever. Also, the Everblades are tops in the division and second in the Confrence right now. Crazy.
To celebrate, lets watch Trevor Bruess take on one of the Royals. This came a few minutes after the Blades scored their third unanswered goal in the first period.
I'm pretty sure I'm not the only Everblades fan that's really begun to like Trevor Bruess. The dude is half sandpaper, half canonball.
In happy news, Justin Shugg was named player of the week. Congrats dude! This led to me finding out some people refer to him as the Shuggernaut. Pretty sure that's one of the best hockey nicknames ever. Also, the Everblades are tops in the division and second in the Confrence right now. Crazy.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Titans (10/22/11)
I have to be honset, I'm not sure how exactly to re-cap this game. I should have know the minute I had to listen to the Trenton broadcast of the game that the Hockey Gods were not looking favorably down upon me.
I don't think I can really write my usual type of re-cap, because sweet freaking Caroline the Trenton radio guy was horrible. I'm pretty sure recordings of him calling games could easily be used by the CIA as a torture device. I'm also pretty sure that if they did, it would be a violation of the Geneva Convention.
Where was I? Oh yes, the game. Let me just break it down into some manageable bits.
- Score Everblades 5- Titans 8
- SOG 33-33
-38 minutes in penalties. Yup. 38. Two thirds of the game saw either one or both of the teams shorthanded. I wasn't watching the game, but I got the impression that a certain striped individual needed to swallow his wistle and let the teams play.
-The Blades were 2/8 on the penalty and the Titans were 4/7.
- The Blades came from behind several times and managed to get a 5-3 lead in the closing minutes of the second. Then Bobby Raymond was called for a BS penalty (that's not me being a homer, the Trenton radio guy said it was BS). The Titans scored on the ensuing powerplay. They then went on to score four more unanswered goals including an empty netter.
- Poor Pat Nagle was completely on his own since John Muse was called up to Charlotte after Justin Peters was injured.
- There was some good news I guess. Bobby Raymond has scored in the last two games, Justin Shugg scored twice and got an assist and Alex Hutching scored a goal and got an assist. So, um, yay.
-The boys got right on the bus after the game for the drive to Reading. They play the Royals tonight. What wonderful scheduling.
- The next time I make fun of our radio guy someone remind me he's very good, we're lucky to have him, and some fans aren't as lucky. Some fans are very unlucky. They have to listen to a guy who thinks he's calling a soccer game.
I don't think I can really write my usual type of re-cap, because sweet freaking Caroline the Trenton radio guy was horrible. I'm pretty sure recordings of him calling games could easily be used by the CIA as a torture device. I'm also pretty sure that if they did, it would be a violation of the Geneva Convention.
Where was I? Oh yes, the game. Let me just break it down into some manageable bits.
- Score Everblades 5- Titans 8
- SOG 33-33
-38 minutes in penalties. Yup. 38. Two thirds of the game saw either one or both of the teams shorthanded. I wasn't watching the game, but I got the impression that a certain striped individual needed to swallow his wistle and let the teams play.
-The Blades were 2/8 on the penalty and the Titans were 4/7.
- The Blades came from behind several times and managed to get a 5-3 lead in the closing minutes of the second. Then Bobby Raymond was called for a BS penalty (that's not me being a homer, the Trenton radio guy said it was BS). The Titans scored on the ensuing powerplay. They then went on to score four more unanswered goals including an empty netter.
- Poor Pat Nagle was completely on his own since John Muse was called up to Charlotte after Justin Peters was injured.
- There was some good news I guess. Bobby Raymond has scored in the last two games, Justin Shugg scored twice and got an assist and Alex Hutching scored a goal and got an assist. So, um, yay.
-The boys got right on the bus after the game for the drive to Reading. They play the Royals tonight. What wonderful scheduling.
- The next time I make fun of our radio guy someone remind me he's very good, we're lucky to have him, and some fans aren't as lucky. Some fans are very unlucky. They have to listen to a guy who thinks he's calling a soccer game.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Re-Cap: Everblades vs. Jackals (10/21/11)
The Everblades played their first road game of the season against one of my least favorite teams (don't know why, I just don't like them). This calls for the first re-cap of the season!
Hopefully, I've kept my blogging skills up with all the fight videos and misspelled kitty pictures I've posted all offseason.
The Blades rolled into Elmira with some unfortunate things working against them. A long, drawn out, road trip, a usually strong and currently undefeated opponent, and a veteran NHLer who actually captained the Buffalo Sabres.
You read that right, HE WAS THE CAPTAIN.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!
Needless to say, the guys did not necessarily have the odds in their favor.
Starting line: Fischer, McGinnis, Beca, McKenzie, Rutherford, Muse
The first period saw a lone tally from Elmira at the 10:50 mark and not too much else. Really, not much else happened. It was kind of lame to be honest.
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The second period saw the Jackals score two more goals. The first, unassisted, came at the 2:53 mark. The second came a few minutes later at 6:42. Things were looking pretty bleak until a scrum in the Jackals zone led to mutual roughing penalties.
That seemed to get the Blades fired up and shift the momentum because David Fischer slipped one in to make it 3-1 (assists to Rutherford and McKenzie).
Three minutes later, Bobby Raymond decided he wasn't going to let Fischer have all the fun and notched one of his own to make it 3-2 (assists to Murray and Beca). The Blades had some pretty great chances after that, but just couldn't convert. The period ended with the Jackals leading 3-2.
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The Blades kept of the pressure for the early part of the third. Goalie John Muse mad some great saves, but there was nothing he could do when a blast from a Jackal flew passed him after he was bumped. That goal, scored with less than 6 minute left in the period made a comeback hard to believe in. A few minutes later the Jackals score on the empty net to make it 5-2.
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It was a good game from the Everblades, they dominated a decent amount of the play, but they just didn't have the bounces go in their favor.
Hopefully, I've kept my blogging skills up with all the fight videos and misspelled kitty pictures I've posted all offseason.
The Blades rolled into Elmira with some unfortunate things working against them. A long, drawn out, road trip, a usually strong and currently undefeated opponent, and a veteran NHLer who actually captained the Buffalo Sabres.
You read that right, HE WAS THE CAPTAIN.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!
Needless to say, the guys did not necessarily have the odds in their favor.
Starting line: Fischer, McGinnis, Beca, McKenzie, Rutherford, Muse
The first period saw a lone tally from Elmira at the 10:50 mark and not too much else. Really, not much else happened. It was kind of lame to be honest.
-------------------------------------------------------------
The second period saw the Jackals score two more goals. The first, unassisted, came at the 2:53 mark. The second came a few minutes later at 6:42. Things were looking pretty bleak until a scrum in the Jackals zone led to mutual roughing penalties.
That seemed to get the Blades fired up and shift the momentum because David Fischer slipped one in to make it 3-1 (assists to Rutherford and McKenzie).
Three minutes later, Bobby Raymond decided he wasn't going to let Fischer have all the fun and notched one of his own to make it 3-2 (assists to Murray and Beca). The Blades had some pretty great chances after that, but just couldn't convert. The period ended with the Jackals leading 3-2.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The Blades kept of the pressure for the early part of the third. Goalie John Muse mad some great saves, but there was nothing he could do when a blast from a Jackal flew passed him after he was bumped. That goal, scored with less than 6 minute left in the period made a comeback hard to believe in. A few minutes later the Jackals score on the empty net to make it 5-2.
------------------------------------------------------------------
It was a good game from the Everblades, they dominated a decent amount of the play, but they just didn't have the bounces go in their favor.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Friday Links
The Blades play their first road game of the season tonight. They also play tomorrow and Sunday night. That's about a 317 mile trip in under three days. Fun right?
- Anyway, I've updated the link to listen to the game online. If you want to go old school and listen on the radio it's on 770 AM.
- I've waited long enough... look who's back!
Obviously, I've been in heaven since the news was announced. What can I say? I'm a sucker for a reliable defenseman that lands on the good side of the +/-.
- Sadly, his arrival means we had to release Deron Cousens. I swear, if I win the lottery I'm buying an ECHL franchise and taking in all the players the Blades release. It'll be like the island of misfit toys.
- Your Wikipedia hockey page for today- "Rossall Hockey"
- I'm tempted to buy this book just to find out what happens.
- I love old advertisements. They're just so funny.
- I laughed so long at this kitty. Of course, that might be the cold medicine I'm still taking laughing for me.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!
- Anyway, I've updated the link to listen to the game online. If you want to go old school and listen on the radio it's on 770 AM.
- I've waited long enough... look who's back!
Obviously, I've been in heaven since the news was announced. What can I say? I'm a sucker for a reliable defenseman that lands on the good side of the +/-.
- Sadly, his arrival means we had to release Deron Cousens. I swear, if I win the lottery I'm buying an ECHL franchise and taking in all the players the Blades release. It'll be like the island of misfit toys.
- Your Wikipedia hockey page for today- "Rossall Hockey"
- I'm tempted to buy this book just to find out what happens.
- I love old advertisements. They're just so funny.
- I laughed so long at this kitty. Of course, that might be the cold medicine I'm still taking laughing for me.
see more Lolcats and funny pictures, and check out our Socially Awkward Penguin lolz!
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