ADMIRALS TAKE BACK-TO-BACK WEEKEND GAMES 2-1

Rockford is winless in their last four games (0-3-0-1). (Photo by Greg Hamil)
10/31/2009 12:10 PM -
Rockford falls below .500 to end October for first time since 2001

Rockford, Ill.- For every move the Rockford IceHogs had, the Milwaukee Admirals had an answer as the Admirals won 2-1 on Saturday at the Rockford MetroCentre.

Corey Crawford saved 23 shots in another strong performance. Center Matt Keith scored Rockford's only goal of the night.

"We need to create more offensively but at the same time we gave up a lot of chances," said Keith. "If it wasn't for (Crawford) in the second period it could have been a lot worse."

After a scoreless first period, Milwaukee's first goal came when Crawford went to play the puck behind the net early in the second frame. It took a bad bounce and slid into the goal to put the Admirals up 1-0 at 1:11 into the second frame. Mark Matheson was given his first goal of the season unassisted.

Keith evened the score at one off a dish from Bracken Kearns at 2:01 in the third frame. The centerman found the corner of the goal on a snipe from the the face-off circle. Bryan Bickell was also credited with an assist.

But then O'Reilly solved Crawford at 5:59 in the final frame to take the lead back on a power play. Jonathan Blum and Robert Dietrich had the helpers.

"Tonight in the third we just didn't do enough to come back and win," said Keith.

Chet Pickard had 24 saves in his first professional win. The rookie netminder is 1-1-0 on the season. Rockford's power play continued to struggle, going without a goal in three attempts. Milwaukee was 1-for-1 on the power play.

Next Home Game: Wednesday, Nov. 4 vs. San Antonio Rampage. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. Super Fan Cameron Hughes is back, presented by Rock Valley College, Nicholson Hardware, WXRX, Bob FM and 23 WIFR, to cause a general ruckus. Also if the IceHogs score with 9:10 left on the clock in the third period, one fan in attendance will win $10,000. It's also a WXRX Student Rush night where high school and college students with a valid ID will get the best available seat for $10 after 6 p.m. at the MetroCentre Box Office.

OFFENSE STALLS OUT IN MILWAUKEE

Rockford drops a 2-1 contest to the Admirals

Milwaukee, Wis.-Another close road game, but another road loss for the Rockford IceHogs. The IceHogs fell to the Milwaukee Admirals 2-1 on Friday night in the front end of a home-and-home series at the Bradley Center.

Rockford hopped on the board with game’s only first period goal. Corey Crawford picked up a Milwaukee dump in a fed winger Rob Klinkhammer in the neutral zone. Klinkhammer then snuck behind the Milwaukee defenseman and banked his third goal of the season in past Mark Dekanich at 13:36.

In the second period Milwaukee tied it at 1-1 with a power play goal. Winger Mark Santorelli slapped his second goal of the season through traffic and past Crawford at 6:19. Robert Dietrich and Ben Eaves assisted the goal.

Milwaukee added a second marker to take a 2-1 lead in the middle frame. Cal O’Reilly dumped a puck behind the Rockford goal and with Crawford out to play it, Dietrich cut him off and fed the puck to a wide open Andreas Thuresson who buried his third goal of the season at 15:01.

Rockford couldn’t solve Dekanich in the third and failed to tie the score. The IceHogs have now dropped five straight road games (0-4-0-1).

Crawford finished the night with 33 saves but it wasn’t enough as Dekanich turned away 29 Rockford shots in the win.

TRICK OR TREAT WITH THE ICEHOGS SATURDAY

The Rockford IceHogs announce the return of a Rockford tradition – Trick or Treat with the IceHogs!

After you’re done trick-or-treating on Saturday, come to the MetroCentre to watch the IceHogs take on the Milwaukee Admirals at 7:05 p.m.

After the game, kids in costume ages 12 and under are invited to join IceHogs players on the ice for more trick-or-treating! Bags will be provided by Texas Roadhouse.

IceHogs players will be handing out treats courtesy of Texas Roadhouse, Nestle, U.S. Cellular, General Mills, Pepsi, Frito Lay and more.

Saturday is also the first of four “Go Green” themed nights. The first 2,500 fans into the building will pickup an IceHogs aluminum water bottle compliments of Rock Valley Culligan and 97ZOK.

Call (815) 968-5222 to reserve your seats for any IceHogs regular season game during the 2009-10 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford, or at Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com. Tickets start at just $10.

ICEHOGS ANNOUNCE PROMOTIONAL SCHEDULE CHANGES

The Rockford IceHogs, members of the American Hockey League, announced changes to the 2009-10 season promotional schedule.

The winter scarf giveaway, formerly on Dec. 19, will now be on Dec. 26. when the IceHogs take on the Milwaukee Admirals.

The jersey pillow will now be given away during the Feb. 20th game against the San Antonio Rampage, moved from Dec. 26.

The zamboni replica bank, originally scheduled for Feb. 20, will now be featured on March 26 when the IceHogs face the Peoria Rivermen. The golf club covers are no longer scheduled for March 26.

For more information, check out www.icehogs.com/schedule/promotions. All game dates, times and promotions are subject to change.

Call (815) 968-5222 to reserve your seats for any IceHogs regular season game during the 2009-10 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford, or at Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com. Tickets start at just $10.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 31 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will pickup an IceHogs aluminum water bottle compliments of Rock Valley Culligan and 97ZOK. Trick or Treat with the IceHogs is back! Kids 12 and under at the game will be invited on the ice after the game to trick or treat with the players. Children must be in costume to participate.

WEDNESDAYS ARE GRAND WITH THE HOGS GOLDEN GOAL PROMOTION

Super Fan also to make his first Rockford appearance this season

Rockford, Ill.- Fans will have an opportunity to win $10,000 this season during home Wednesday games with the Rockford IceHogs at the Rockford MetroCentre. The IceHogs on Thursday announced details of the “Golden Goal” promotion.

During all nine Wednesday home games during the 2009-10 regular season and the IceHogs regular season home finale on Saturday, April 3, fans can register to win $10,000 with the “Golden Goal.” If the IceHogs score a score with 9:10 on the clock (for the ’09-10 season) in the third period, then one lucky fan will walk away with $10,000.

Fans can register at the game and must be present to win the prize. All entries must be submitted by the second intermission and one fan will be picked at random. Sign up will be located at the U.S. Cellular Fan Zone located in the MetroCentre’s upper concourse.

Super Fan Cameron Hughes is slated to make his first MetroCentre appearance during the 2009-10 season on Wednesday when the IceHogs take on the San Antonio Rampage at 7:05 p.m. Super Fan will entertain the crowd during the game and toss out T-shirts to fans. Super Fan is sponsored by Nicholson Hardware, Rock Valley College, WXRX, BOB FM and 23 WIFR.

Wednesday also marks the return of WXRX’s Student Rush. All students with a valid student ID can purchase any seat in the MetroCentre for just $10. Students can take advantage of the $10 tickets beginning one hour before faceoff at the MetroCentre Box Office during any weekday (excluding Fridays) or Sunday games.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 31 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will pickup an IceHogs aluminum water bottle compliments of Rock Valley Culligan and 97ZOK. Trick or Treat with the IceHogs is back as any kids 12 or under at the game will be invited on the ice after the game to trick or treat with the players. Children must be in costume to participate.

ROCKFORD EARNS A POINT IN CHICAGO

Hogs can’t top Wolves in the shootout

Rosemont, Ill.- The shootout wasn’t kind to the Rockford IceHogs on Wednesday night as they fell to the Chicago Wolves 3-2 at the Allstate Arena and 1-0 in the shootout.

A strong start for the IceHogs put them on top early in Chicago. Bryan Bickell picked up a rebound off of a Nathan Davis shot and cashed in his second goal of the season beating Manny Legace at 4:51. Braken Kearns also figured in on the scoring with an assist.

Chicago got the goal back, however, as Tim Stapleton tallied short handed. Stapleton picked up an Arturs Kulda pass and wrapped his fifth goal of the season around Corey Crawford at 10:28 of the frame.

In the second period the Wolves grabbed the lead at 4:12. Brett Sterling jammed in a Spencer Machacek centering feed for his third goal of the season. Chris Chelios marked the secondary assist.

Rockford would tie the game late in the stanza after digging out a puck from behind the Wolves goal. Evan Brophey won the battle and found Bickel on the right half wall who in return found Nathan Davis on the doorstep. Davis deflected in his fifth goal of the season at 16:41.

After a scoreless third period and overtime, Rockford and Chicago went to a shootout. Legace turned away all five Rockford shooters in the extra session while Crawford allowed the only shootout goal as Stapleton tallied in the second round.

Rockford outshot Chicago 34-26 in the contest and both teams failed to score on the power play. The IceHogs finished 0-5 on the advantage while holding the Wolves to 0-7.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 31 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will pickup an IceHogs aluminum water bottle compliments of Rock Valley Culligan and 97ZOK. Trick or Treat with the IceHogs is back as any kids 12 or under at the game will be invited on the ice after the game to trick or treat with the players. Children must be in costume to participate.

THE FAR SIDE OF THE POND: Early Surprises

By Chad Huebner

Since it’s that time of year to be scared out of our wits, I figured I’d write about a few things that have given me quite a “scare” so far this hockey season, right? Except that Halloween doesn’t really scare me. All the horror shows, outside elaborate decorations and haunted houses don’t really offer much of a genuine scare. Oh sure, I might be surprised by something-a sudden noise, someone jumping out at me from the shadows or the occasional were-bat that’s sucking on my jugular, stuff like that-but that’s not enough to make my hair turn white. Those things elicit more of an “ahhhh!” than an “EEEEEEEEIIIEEEEEE!” from me. So instead, here are a few of the things that have surprised me so far this young hockey season:

I’m surprised at. . . how well the Buffalo Sabres, Colorado Avalanche and Pittsburgh Penguins have started the season.

Yes, that’s right, the Pens. Look, there was a chance the Pens, after playing full postseason and regular seasons the last two years, would have a slow start to this season. But Crosby and Malkin (which sounds a little like a legal firm, one that delivers blistering shots instead of depositions) are part of the young core which doesn’t look like it’ll tire out anytime soon. And Marc-Andre Fleury, he of the 8-0-0 record and the 1.96 GAA, is playing the best start to any season in his career. His GAA the last four seasons is 2.83, 2.33, 2.67, and 1.96. Isn’t this “The New NHL”, where goals are supposed to be pouring in faster than a broken New Orleans levee? At this rate, he’ll have a minus GAA by season’s end. I dunno how that’ll actually happen-maybe instead of stopping shots, he’ll be scoring on them-but I’m sure he’s capable of such a supernatural feat.

As for the Avs and Sabres, would you have picked both of them to be leading their respective divisions? Either one? With the Sabes, would you believe Ryan Miller has an even more miniscule GAA than Fleury at 1.65 GAA? Both teams have a balance attack on offense-the leading scorer for both clubs doesn’t have more than four goals so far. One of those guys is Darcy Tucker. That’s right, the man who, while being a consistent goal scorer, has only a career high of 28 goals in any one season. Craig Anderson (6-1-2, 2.06 GAA) has been a great pickup for the Avs from his days toiling for a sub par Florida Panthers squad. He definitely won’t make people forget St. Patrick, but he should definitely bring stability to a position that has been a problem point for the Avs ever since Roy retired.

But none of these three clubs even hold a candle to the surprise team as of this moment. . . the Phoenix Coyotes. Take a look at the standings, they’re 5-2-0 as of October 22. Four of the teams they’ve beaten were playoff teams last year, and three of those four were in the top five in the entire league: Pens, Sharks, Blues and Bruins. The Coyotes have a balanced attack, with three guys-Ed Jovanovski, Radim Vrbata and Scottie Upshall (all free agent or trade acquisitions, by the way, and were probably considered used up by their former teams)-leading the way with three goals each. And then you have “Brizzy”, aka Ilya Bryzgalov, a guy who was an excellent backup to “Jiggy”, aka Jean-Sebastian Giguere with the Anaheim Ducks and has a respectable record (57-54-11) in three years as a starter for the Coyotes. He’s off to a 5-1-0 start and a. . . get this. . . 1.14 GAA. Yeah, mind blowing isn’t it? This is all coming from a team that was pretty much ticketed for Hamilton-Kansas City-Winnipeg-Quebec, anywhere but Phoenix by this time this season. Wayne Gretzky abruptly left his head coaching position right before the start of the season. . . and maybe that was for the best, as Dave Tippett, former 6-year head coach for the Dallas Stars (who had a .617 winning percentage and two 50-win seasons under his stead) has stepped in and has this team finally believing in itself, despite all the outside distractions.

I’m surprised at. . . the slow starts by the Boston Bruins and the Philadelphia Flyers.

Looks like this year’s Winter Classic will be a dull affair between these two. Yeah, right. But there is a slight amount of concern at how sluggish these two have looked right from the start. The Bruins suffered a mighty blow when they lost Marc Savard for the next 4-6 weeks, but I would think David Krejci, Michael Ryder and even Marco Sturm would step up to pick up the slack. Tim Thomas has been only so-so (3-3-0, 3.00 GAA) after an impressive 2008-09 campaign. The team’s at .500 right now, and that’s only because they managed to eke out a win against the Nashville Predators at home.

The Flyers started out 3-0, and have followed that up with a 0-2-1 stinker of a stretch. Sure, they technically have a winning record, but wasn’t this the team that really upgraded their grit on defense by trading for Chris Pronger? They also went out and got Ray Emery back from Russia, and we know how much of a head case he can be when things go wrong. Maybe I’m not surprised so much as disappointed that this team isn’t right there at the top of their division along with Pittsburgh and the New York Rangers.

I’m surprised at. . . Chelly signing with the Chicago Wolves.

I guess a quarter century in the NHL wasn’t enough for this guy. After being let go by the Detroit Red Wings, I figured this was it for him, and certainly not the way we expected him to leave the game. At least there could have been the slightest, teeniest, tiniest chance that the Blackhawks would pick him up again, if only for the tons of publicity they would receive for it (and perhaps he could retire as a ‘Hawk after all these years). But the Chicago Wolves have signed him to a Professional Tryout Contract, which basically means he can play for the Wolves for a maximum of 25 games before they have to make a decision on him, or they can release him at any time before that 25-game limit is reached. I doubt he has to worry about a “pay cut.” Anyway, it’ll be nice to see Chelly play in a Chicago uniform once again, if only for a little while (then again, I think I’ve said before that I wouldn’t be surprised if he tried to play until he was 50).

I’m surprised that. . . I never knew how good of a minor league team the Fort Wayne (Indiana) Komets have been.

At least, not until I started reading “Legends of the Komets” by Blake Sebring, which gives a little biography on every player/coach/reporter who’s had their number retired or have been honored in a similar way by the Komets. Blake paints some pretty pictures about each of the honorees, throwing in enough good stories to go along with the hard facts. As he points out early in his book, many of these people didn’t envision themselves winding up in Fort Wayne, but when they came there, most of them never wanted to leave. The book also talks about how much the city supported the team over the years and how much it mattered to players and coaches alike: they wanted to perform better because of it. The book also made me want to look up the Komets, and they certainly are one of the best hockey franchises out there: seven championships, 12 regular season titles, and longevity (been around since 1952) that’s right up there with the Original Six of the NHL. Blake’s one book was an eye-opener for me, a guy who thought he knew a thing or two about the history of minor-league hockey. I can’t wait to read his other book “Tales of the Komets”, which, again, gives all the numbers a sports stats guy would love and live off of, plus a bunch of juicy tidbits about the team over the years. I’ll bet I’ll be nicely surprised by that book as well.

Remember; e-mail me at chadhuebner1972@yahoo.com for anything on your mind. Best responses and/or questions will be answered publicly.

Blackhawks Reassign Dowell To Rockford

From chicagoblackhawks.com: (link)

The Chicago Blackhawks have reassigned center Jake Dowell (DOW-uhl) to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Dowell, 24, has registered a fighting major and three shots in two games with the Blackhawks this season. The Eau Claire, Wisconsin native leads Rockford with six assists and ranks second with seven points in eight AHL contests this season, while serving as the team captain. He also appeared in five preseason contests with the Blackhawks, posting one assist.

Overall, Dowell has appeared in 22 regular-season games with the Blackhawks over the last three seasons (2007-09), posting three points (2G, A) and 17 penalty minutes, which includes being held scoreless in one game with the club in 2008-09.

Blackhawks Notebook: Inside Kane's Milestone Goal

From chicagoblackhawks.com: (link)



A team’s best players always wants the puck in crunch time, and they more often than not deliver when it counts. Knowing that, it should be no surprise to anyone that Patrick Kane rose to the occasion and gave the Blackhawks a boost when they needed it Monday night, with an awe-inspiring goal that sealed the Blackhawks' 3-1 win over Minnesota.

Having just seen their lead cut to 2-1 following an Andrew Brunette power play score, the Blackhawks were looking to rebound early in the third period. Though Chicago managed to keep the puck inside the Wild’s zone for more than a minute before Kane’s goal, they couldn’t seem to get the look they needed against Minnesota goaltender Niklas Backstrom.

However, after a nice takeaway, Kane took the puck behind Minnesota’s net, stepped out to his right, spun and lofted a shot above Backstrom’s blocker pad for the score.

“We had the puck in the zone for a while, and I don’t know if [Backstrom] was tired from the series, but we kept the pressure up” said Kane. “I wanted to step out behind the net and shoot it high. It’s one of those things that you work on, shoot and pray that it goes in. It's nice to see it work finally.”

It was a nice-looking goal, for sure, but Kane’s coaches and teammates also acknowledged how pivotal and timely it was.

“It was a great goal,” said head coach Joel Quenneville. “It was 2-1 and suddenly anything can happen. He got that insurance goal on a nice play and great shot. Kaner can make nice plays and finish them off, as well. It’s was a very needed goal and pretty to watch.”

“I was standing there, sort of waiting for a pass,” Dave Bolland joked. “He’s got a tremendous shot. He only had an inch or two and he snuck it in there. I knew it went in; that was a pretty sick shot from were I saw it.”

“I was thinking pass, but then I pulled it to my backhand and walked it out the other way,” Kane recounted. “I didn’t know if I was going to be able to walk it out and backhand it. I ended up having to turn around and fire it.”

Kane’s tally was a noteworthy one on several counts: not only did the highlight-reel tally seal the Hawks 3-1 victory over the Wild, but it also marked the 50th of Kane’s young career.

“I wish it was [my total] for one season,” Kane said jokingly. “[Blackhawks Media Relations Director] made me feel really good; he said I only have 560 more to go to tie Bobby Hull. At least I know I have a long way to go.”

Prospect Pirri Earns ECAC Honors

From chicagoblackhawks.com: (link)

2009 2nd round pick Brandon Pirri has been named ECAC Hockey’s Rookie of the Week (ending Oct. 25). Pirri, a forward for Rensselaer Polytechnic Intstitute (RPI), picked up four points and helped his team to a 2-0 record.

The Toronto, Ontario native recorded two goals, including the game-winner in overtime against Sacred Heart on Friday, October 23. Following Friday’s win, Pirri tallied two assists during RPI’s 3-2 win over American International Saturday.

Pirri is currently tied with Tyler Helfrich for the RPI team lead in points with six, recording three goals and three assists with the Engineers so far this season.

Seabrook's OT Goal Voted Play of the Week

From chicagoblackhawks.com: (link)

With 29% of the vote, Brent Seabrook's overtime winner against Calgary at the United Center on Oct. 12 was selected as chicagoblackhawks.com's Play of the Week for Oct. 11-17.

Blackhawks Recall Dowell From Rockford

From chicagoblackhawks.com: (link)

The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled center Jake Dowell (DOW-uhl) from the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Dowell, 24, made his season debut with the Blackhawks on Saturday, appearing in 7:26 of action during the team’s 2-0 win over the Nashville Predators. The Eau Claire, Wisconsin, native leads Rockford with six assists and ranks second with seven points in eight games this season, while serving as the team’s captain. He also appeared in five preseason contests with the Blackhawks, posting one assist.

Overall, Dowell has appeared in 21 regular-season games with the Blackhawks over the last three seasons (2007-09), posting three points (2G, A) and 10 penalty minutes, which includes being held scoreless in one game with the club in 2008-09. He spent the majority of last season with Rockford, ranking second on the club with a professional career-high 128 penalty minutes while also collecting 14 assists and 20 points in 75 regular-season contests.

The Blackhawks’ 10th choice (140th overall) in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft, Dowell has appeared in 160 career AHL games since turning pro at the end of the 2006-07 season, racking up 220 penalty minutes and 52 points (18G, 34A) with the Norfolk Admirals (2007) and Rockford (2007-09). Prior to turning pro, he spent four seasons at the University of Wisconsin, tallying 90 points (42G, 48A) and 214 penalty minutes in 159 games from 2003 to 2007. Dowell helped the Badgers earn the 2006 NCAA Championship along with current teammate Adam Burish.

HOGS STUMBLE IN PEORIA, PICK UP TWO POINTS IN WEEK 4

Hogs close out October with Chicago and two against Milwaukee

Week 4 Recap
The Rockford IceHogs continued to be perfect (3-0-0-0) at home, but could not figure out the Peoria Rivermen at Caver Arena, falling twice in two trips to Peoria this week by a combined score of 9-3. The tour of the West Division continues for Rockford as they turn to face the Wolves twice in the Allstate Arena and a home-and-home series against Milwaukee.

Week 4 Schedule
Wednesday, Oct. 21: Rockford 1 at Peoria 4
Friday, Oct. 23: Milwaukee 1 vs. Rockford 6
Saturday, Oct. 24: Rockford 2 at Peoria 5

Week 5 Schedule
Wednesday, Oct. 28 at Chicago, 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 30 at Milwaukee, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 31 vs. Milwaukee, 7:05 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 1 at Chicago, 5 p.m.

Bacon Bits:

-Team Captain Jake Dowell became the second IceHogs skater to be recalled to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2009-10

-He had three shots in 7:26 on ice in his Blackhawks debut on Saturday

-Center Mark Cullen was one of five players to post a multi-point game on Friday, his first of the season

-Before Friday (1g-2a) and Saturday (1g-1a), he had not recorded back-to-back multi-point games since March 2 and March 5, 2008

-Winger Jack Skille became the 13th IceHogs skater in 2009-10 to record a multi-point game on Saturday (1g-1a)

-After playing Peoria four times in the first 10 games, the IceHogs won’t face off against the Rivermen for 35 contests

-Rockford is 0-2-1-0 in Peoria’s Carver Arena so far this season and 5-2-0-0 everywhere else

-Rockford is 20-for-22 (90.1%) on the penalty kill in the last five games

-In all three of Corey Crawford’s losses, he has made at least 30 saves, including 36 in Saturday’s loss to Peoria

-Crawford has faced an average of 31.9 shots per start in 2009-10

-Rockford has won every game after each of the team’s first three regulation losses in 2009-10

-After playing seven of its first 10 games on the road, Rockford will play five of its next seven away from the MetroCentre

-Rockford is 3-0-0-0 at the MetroCentre

-The IceHogs gave up three goals in the third period on Saturday in Peoria marking the fourth time this season in which they have given up three goals in a period

-Three of those three-goal periods have come in the third period and all were losses

-Rockford has given up 10 overall goals in the third period through 10 games

-Rockford is 3-0-0-0 against the West Division at home this season but 0-3-1-0 on the road against the Division

Hot Hog Week 4:
After getting held without a multi-point contest in Rockford’s first eight games, center Mark Cullen but together back-to-back multi-point efforts during week 4. On Friday, Cullen chipped in a goal and two assists in the IceHogs 6-1 win over Milwaukee and followed that up with a goal and an assist on Saturday in the Hogs 5-2 loss at Peoria. Cullen leads Rockford with 10 points through 10 games.

Upcoming Games:
Wednesday, Oct. 28 vs. Chicago Wolves: The IceHogs make their second visit to the Allstate Arena to face the Chicago Wolves. The puck drops at 7 p.m. It is the third of ten meetings on the season.

Friday, Oct. 30 at Milwaukee Admirals: The IceHogs make their first visit to the Bradley Center to face the Milwaukee Admirals at 7 p.m. It is the second meeting of the season between the two teams and first contest in a home-and-home series that conclued the next night in Rockford.

Saturday, Oct. 31 vs. Milwaukee Admirals: The Milwaukee Admirals make their second visit to the Rockford MetroCentre in as many weeks. The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. After you’re done trick-or-treating, come to the MetroCentre for the IceHogs and Admirals. The first 2,500 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs aluminum bottle courtesy of Culligan and 97ZOK. Also, all kids 12 and under who come dressed in costume can trick-or-treat with the team on the ice after the game.

Sunday, Nov. 1 vs. Chicago Wolves: The Hogs and Wolves cap off the week with their second contest in five days at the Allstate Arena. The Sunday matinee game gets underway at 5 p.m.

The IceHogs Broadcasting Network:
Rockford IceHogs fans can catch all of the IceHogs regular and post-season games on the Hogs flagship radio station Rockford’s Voice, WNTA-AM 1330 and 30 regular season games on ESPN Radio 1380-AM, WTJK. Fans can also watch and listen to the Hogs on the World Wide Web with AHL Live! Visit the IceHogs Web site (icehogs.com) and click on the “click here to watch the AHL Live” icon, and for just $7, you can catch all of the IceHogs action on your computer. Also, fans with Comcast Cable television can tune in to Channel 57 for all the IceHogs hockey action this season. The broadcast begins with the Pregame Show 30 minutes before the puck drops. Make sure to give your opinion during the Comcast Post-Game Call-In Show following each game at (815) 874-8255.

Hog Talk Tonight At Cousin’s Bar and Grill:
Join Jim Stone from 6-7 p.m. tonight at Cousin’s Bar and Grill as he chats with IceHogs video coach Dave Cencer as well as defenseman Simon Danis-Pepin and forward Matt Keith. Cousin’s is located on the corner of East State St. and Perryville in Rockford, and take advantage of some great food and Bud Light specials. If you can’t make it out to Cousin’s, tune into 1330 AM, WNTA.

Tickets Now On Sale!
IceHogs individual game tickets are now on sale! Call (815) 968-5222 to reserve your seats for any IceHogs regular season game during the 2009-10 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford, at Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.centreevents.com. Tickets start at just $10.

THREE THIRD PERIOD PEORIA GOALS DROP HOGS

Crawford makes 37 saves in the loss

Peoria, Ill.- For two periods on Saturday the Rockford IceHogs and Peoria Rivermen went back and forth. But a three goal third period by Peoria broke open a 2-2 game and sent Rockford home 5-2 losers.

Peoria grabbed the only goal in the first period, moments after their only power play of the frame expired. Winger Chris Porter redirected a Jonas Junland shot past Corey Crawford at 13:05 for his third goal of the season and a 1-0 lead.

Rockford tied it in the second frame at 3:59. Jack Skille crashed the goal, collided with Ben Bishop and set up Mark Cullen who buried his fifth goal of the season. Kyle Greentree also helped on the goal.

Then at 9:51 Peoria took the lead back. Porter sent a centering pass to Aaron Palushaj who jammed in his first goal of the year under Crawford. Junland was also credited with an assist.

Late in the second frame Rockford would tie it once again. Cullen fed Skille up the right wall and the winger would beat Bishop short side for his second goal of the season at 19:46. Richard Petiot picked up an assist as well.

Peoria began the third period barrage when Porter shelved his second goal of the night after Rockford failed to clean out the crease. Porter’s marker was assisted by Cam Paddock at 6:15 of the third period.

Lars Eller added some insurance at 15:19 when he tipped in a Nicolas Drazenovic pass making it 4-2 before Junland finished the scoring with a 5-on-3 power-play goal at 19:30.

Crawford’s 36 saves weren’t enough on Saturday as he was tagged with the loss. Bishop made 22 saves in the win. Rockford held Peoria to 1-7 on the power play but failed to convert on four power play chances of their own.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 31 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. After you’re done trick-or-treating, come to the MetroCentre for the IceHogs and Admirals. The first 2,500 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs aluminum bottle courtesy of Culligan and 97ZOK. Also, all kids 12-and-under who come dressed in costume can trick-or-treat with the team on the ice after the game.

IT’S BACK TO PEORIA FOR ROCKFORD

The IceHogs matchup with Rivermen again

Peoria, Ill.- For the fourth time in 10 games, the Rockford IceHogs and Peoria Rivermen meet up. Tonight’s contest starts at 7 p.m. at Carver Arena and can be heard on 1330 AM, WNTA and on Comcast Cable channel 57 in Rockford. To listen on-line click here.

The game is the third on the season in Peoria between the two clubs with the most recent coming on Wednesday. Peoria knocked off Rockford 4-1 on Wednesday and have taken both games at Carver Arena so far this season.

Including the preseason, six of Rockford’s 13 games in 2009-10 have come against the Rivermen, but after tonight the two clubs will not play again until Jan. 16.

Rockford will look to avoid falling behind early tonight like they’ve done in the past two tilts against Peoria. Last Saturday, the IceHogs were able to climb out of a 3-0 hole and fought back for a 4-3 shootout win. Rockford wasn’t as fortunate on Wednesday as a 4-0 deficit in Peoria proved too much.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 31 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. After you’re done trick-or-treating, come to the MetroCentre for the IceHogs and Admirals. The first 2,500 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs aluminum bottle courtesy of Culligan and 97ZOK. Also, all kids 12-and-under who come dressed in costume can trick-or-treat with the team on the ice after the game.

ROCKFORD’S CAPTAIN RECALLED TO CHICAGO

Dowell earns first recall of the season

Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled center Jake Dowell from the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Dowell, 24, leads Rockford with six assists and ranks second with seven points in eight games this season. The Eau Claire, Wisconsin, native recorded one assist in five preseason contests with the Blackhawks before being assigned to the IceHogs on September 30.

Overall, Dowell has appeared in 20 regular-season games with the Blackhawks over the last two seasons (2007-09), posting three points (2G, A) and 10 penalty minutes, which includes being held scoreless in one game with the club in 2008-09. He spent the majority of last season with Rockford, ranking second on the club with a professional career-high 128 penalty minutes while also collecting 14 assists and 20 points in 75 regular-season contests.

The center is the second IceHogs skater to get recalled to Chicago, joining Jack Skille who has played five games with the parent club.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 31 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. After you’re done trick-or-treating, come to the MetroCentre for the IceHogs and Admirals. The first 2,500 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs aluminum bottle courtesy of Culligan and 97ZOK. Also, all kids 12-and-under who come dressed in costume can trick-or-treat with the team on the ice after the game.

ROCKFORD CRUISES TO 6-1 WIN OVER MILWAUKEE

Photo by Greg Hamil

Rockford, Ill.- Call it revenge for last season's playoff sweep or call it the product of a team playing well at home, but the Rockford IceHogs cruised to a 6-1 win over the Milwaukee Admirals at the Rockford MetroCentre on Friday.

Corey Crawford was brilliant in net making 32 saves including 15 in the second period to keep Rockford in control.

"Another typical night from him," said defenseman Brian Connelly. "Any time you can give up one goal, it just means we have to do the rest. We got a couple there and he got some more confidence. He moved the puck well for us and it was a great effort by him."

Evan Brophey put the Hogs on the board with his first of the season, a quick shot past Mark Dekanich at 10:04 in the first frame at the Rockford MetroCentre. Mike Brennan had an assist.

Jack Skille found room in the deep slot and drove the puck past Dekanich at 17:49 to put the Hogs up by two. Kyle Greentree and Mark Cullen recorded the helpers on Skille’s first goal with Rockford.

In the second period, Danny Bois picked up his own rebound and put it top shelf at 2:11 to give the IceHogs some insurance, making it 3-0. Rob Klinkhammer and Brophey had the helpers.

"Guys were just more focused tonight," said Connelly. "We were getting pucks in deep and getting shots on the net. This is a good one to build on and we just have to do it again tomorrow."

Then Mike Santorelli put the Admirals on the board when he drove the puck under Crawford at 6:55 in the second with helpers from Peter Olvecky and Jonathon Blum. That’s as close as Milwaukee could make it, however, as Crawford slammed the door the rest of the way.

The third period started on a power play for the IceHogs and Connelly took advantage. The rookie blue liner snuck up the left side, took a pass from Greentree and put it in at 1:05 in the final frame to give Rockford a 4-1 lead. The second assist went to Cullen.

"The crowds have been good so far and they were energetic," Connelly said. "We were building off of that. This is a good building to play in so hopefully it will continue."

Akim Aliu got in on the action with his third goal of the season at 16:28 in the third with assists from Klinkhammer and Dave Phillips. The helper was the first career AHL point for Phillips.

Mark Cullen wrapped things up for the IceHogs with his fourth goal of the season. The goal came with 1:19 remaining and help from Connelly and Daryl Boyle. Cullen finished the game with a season-high three points (1g-2a).

Rockford was 2-for-4 on the power play and Milwaukee was 0-for-3.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 31 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. After you’re done trick-or-treating, come to the MetroCentre for the IceHogs and Admirals. The first 2,500 fans to the game will receive an IceHogs aluminum bottle courtesy of Culligan and 97ZOK. Also, all kids 12-and-under who come dressed in costume can trick-or-treat with the team on the ice after the game.

ROCKFORD SET TO TAKE ON MILWAUKEE

Photo by Greg Hamil
10/23/2009 11:06 AM - Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs return home tonight to take on the Milwaukee Admirals at 7:05 p.m. at the Rockford MetroCentre. The first 4,000 fans through the gates will receive an IceHogs long sleeve t-shirt courtesy of U.S. Cellular, Dental Dimensions, Guerrila Graffix and ESPN 1380.

After tonight’s action, 80’s rock band Night Ranger will perform inside the MetroCentre as part of Hogtoberfest. The concert was originally scheduled as an outdoor event but due to inclement whether it has been moved inside.

Tonight’s game can be heard on 1520 WLUV, beginning at 6:35 p.m. For tickets to the game, call (815) 968- 5222, on the Web at metrocentre.com or in person at the MetroCentre Box Office or at Hog Headquarters inside the Cherryvale Mall.

The game will mark the first of ten times the two teams will meet during the 2009-10 campaign. The IceHogs are 10-9-0-1 against the Admirals all-time and 4-5-0-1 at home.

A special $5 ticket will be available during the third period of the game for patrons who wish to attend the Night Ranger concert only. Advance tickets for the game start at just $12 and your ticket to the game gets you into the Hogtoberfest post game celebration.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 31 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 2,500 fans into the building will get an IceHogs aluminum water bottle. The water bottle is part of one of the five “Go Green” themed nights scheduled for the 2009-10 season and is compliments of Rock Valley Culligan and 97ZOK. Trick or Treat with the IceHogs is back as any kids 12 or under at the game will be invited on to the ice after the game to trick or treat with the players. Children must be in costume to participate.

ICEHOGS TO WEAR GREEN

Rockford announced details on “Go Green” promotions

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs, proud members of the American Hockey League, announced on Wednesday the team’s “Go Green” initiative highlighted by four different “Go Green” giveaways in 2009-10 at the Rockford MetroCentre.

The IceHogs will team up with The No Idle Zone initiative for “Going Green Night” on Friday, Nov. 20. During the game, the IceHogs will wear special green jerseys when they take on the Chicago Wolves at 7:05 p.m. The game marks the first time in which the IceHogs will sport green uniforms.

No Idle Zone is an organization whose mission is to work to clean the air we breath and protect our climate through education, incentives and enforcement. For more information regarding No Idle Zone visit http://www.pscleanair.org/.

Throughout the season the IceHogs will be hosting the following four “Go Green” themed nights:

Saturday, October 31, 2009 – Go Green Water Bottle Giveaway
Friday, November 20, 2009 – Green Jersey Night
Saturday, January 2, 2010 – Go Green T-shirt
Monday, February 15, 2010 – Go Green Goalie Replica Mask Giveaway

For tickets to any upcoming IceHogs game call (815) 968-5222. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford, or at Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.metrocentre.com.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 23 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The first annual Hogtoberfest gets under way at 5 p.m. as the IceHogs host a block party on Elm Street and pre-game concert featuring rock band Night Ranger. Also, the first 4,000 fans will pick up a white long-sleeve T-shirt thanks to Dental Dimensions, U.S. Cellular, Guerilla Graffix and ESPN 1380.

ICEHOGS’ INAUGURAL HOGTOBERFEST FRIDAY NIGHT MOVED TO AFTER THE GAME

Tailgate street party moved indoors to become post game celebration

Rockford , Ill.- Officials from the Rockford IceHogs and Rockford MetroCentre have announced that due to concerns about the weather and the comfort of their fans, Hogtoberfest will now be held inside the MetroCentre immediately after the IceHogs game tomorrow night. Hogtoberfest, which includes a concert by power rock legends Night Ranger, was originally scheduled to take place before the IceHogs’ 7:05 p.m. game against the Milwaukee Admirals.

“We’ve been monitoring the forecast closely and given the probable weather conditions, we decided our fans would have a better experience indoors. The only way to facilitate both the hockey game and the concert was to move the concert to after the game, so instead of a pregame tailgate party, we’ll be throwing a post game celebration,” states MetroCentre General Manager Brian Luther. “We are thankful to Night Ranger and their management for working with us to accommodate the IceHogs’ fans and we are looking forward to the opportunity to throw a great party for all who come out,” Luther adds.

Immediately after the game Night Ranger will take the stage playing many of their biggest hits including “Sister Christian,” “(You Can Still) Rock In America,” “When You Close Your Eyes,” “Sentimental Street,” “Goodbye” and “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me.” There will also be autographs from the IceHogs players, Blackhawks’ ticket giveaways, a karaoke contest, and more, plus the fan who sports the wildest 80’s hairdo will win tickets to see the Blackhawks take on the Detroit Redwings on Saturday, December 20 at the United Center. Centerplate concessions will also remain open to provide food and beverages throughout the party.

A special $5 ticket will be available during the third period of the game for patrons who wish to attend the Night Ranger concert only. Advance tickets for the game start at just $12 and your ticket to the game gets you into the Hogtoberfest post game celebration. The IceHogs game against the Milwaukee Admirals starts at 7:05 p.m. Get tickets at www.metrocentre.com, 815-968-5222, at the MetroCentre box office or at Hog Headquarters at Cherryvale Mall.

HOGS SIGN STANLEY CUP WINNER CULLIMORE

Photo courtesy of the AP
Defenseman won the NHL Championship with Tampa Bay in 2004

Rockford, Ill.- Chicago Blackhawks General Manager of Minor League Affiliations Mark Bernard announced on Thursday that the Rockford IceHogs of the American Hockey League have signed veteran defenseman Jassen Cullimore to a professional try-out agreement.

The Simcoe, Ontario native has played in 776 National Hockey League games (26g-77a-103pts), including 119 with the Chicago Blackhawks (2005-07), and 960 overall contests between the NHL and AHL. He most recently skated with the Florida Panthers in 2008-09, recording 10 points (2g-8a) and 37 penalty minutes in 68 games.

“Anytime that you have the opportunity to add a defenseman with the experience like Jassen Cullimore has, you’re only going to strengthen your team,” said Bernard. “Jassen will bring a veteran presence on and off the ice and will really assist in the development of our younger defensemen.”

The blueliner played four seasons with the Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Hockey League (1988-92) and was selected #29 overall (round 2) in the 1991 NHL Entry Draft by the Vancouver Canucks. He played two full seasons with the Hamilton Canucks (AHL, 1992-94) before making his NHL debut with Vancouver in 1994-95. He has also skated in the NHL for Montreal, Tampa Bay, Chicago and Florida. In 2004, Cullimore was a member of the Tampa Bay Lightning team that won the Stanley Cup.

The 37-year-old most recently played in the AHL for the Rochester Americans, notching an assist in three games during the 2007-08 campaign.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 23 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The first annual Hogtoberfest gets under way at 5 p.m. as the IceHogs host a block party on Elm Street and pre-game concert featuring rock band Night Ranger. Also, the first 4,000 fans will pick up a white long-sleeve T-shirt thanks to Dental Dimensions, U.S. Cellular, Guerilla Graffix and ESPN 1380.

DEFICIT TOO BIG FOR ROCKFORD THIS TIME

Peoria, Ill.- One trend a hockey team doesn’t want to fall into is big deficits. For the second straight game the Rockford IceHogs fell into a 3-0 hole against the Peoria Rivermen, but unlike Saturday in Rockford, the IceHogs couldn’t overcome the debt and dropped a 4-1 game in Peoria.

Rockford labored through the first period on Wednesday night getting outshot 18-2 and trailing 3-0. Barry Tallackson began the scoring for Peoria when he floated a wrist shot past Joe Fallon at 5:32, assisted Danny Richmond and Bryce Lampman.

Yan Stastny stretched the league to 2-0 at 7:29 when he tipped in a perfect cross-ice centering pass from Jonas Junland for his third goal of the year. Nicholas Drazenovic finished off the first period scoring at 18:29 when he banked in a Stastny rebound for his second goal of the campaign.

After getting outshot 18-2 in the second period, Rockford came back and outshot Peoria 13-8 in the second frame, but Peoria claimed the only goal. Center Chris Porter wrapped a backhanded shot past Fallon at 15:44 of the second period for a 4-0 lead.

Rockford cracked Ben Bishop in the third frame to cut the deficit down to 4-1, but it wasn’t enough. Winger Kyle Greentree redirected a Richard Petiot slapshot over Bishop’s shoulder at 7:12 for his first goal of the season.

Bishop held Rockford off the board the rest of the way including a key 5-on-3 IceHogs power play midway through the third period. The Peoria puckstopper finished the night with 28 saves. Fallon played two periods and made 22 saves in the loss. Corey Crawford finished the third and turned away all seven Rivermen shots he faced.

Both teams finished without a power play goal as the IceHogs held Peoria to 0-5 and Rockford went 0-4.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 23 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The first annual Hogtoberfest gets under way at 5 p.m. as the IceHogs host a block party on Elm Street and pre-game concert featuring rock band Night Ranger. Also, the first 4,000 fans will pick up a white long-sleeve T-shirt thanks to Dental Dimensions, U.S. Cellular, Guerilla Graffix and ESPN 1380.

HOGS SEEK SECOND STRAIGHT WIN OVER RIVERMEN IN PEORIA

Rockford coming off historic shootout victory at MetroCentre
Rockford, Ill.- No lead should be considered safe at any point in the game as the Rockford IceHogs travel to Peoria to face the Rivermen at Carver Arena in the teams’ third matchup of the young season. The puck drops at 7 p.m.
Tonight’s game can be heard on 1330 AM, WNTA, 1380 AM, WTJK, or online by clicking here.

The IceHogs (4-2-1-0), after going up 2-0 in the first 10 minutes of their season-opening contest in Peoria on Sunday, Oct. 4, were outlasted by the Rivermen (2-2-1-1), 3-2 in overtime. Defenseman Jonas Junland had the game-winning tally, his second of the game.

On Saturday at the MetroCentre, the Hogs exacted their revenge, storming back from a 3-0 deficit with less than five minutes left in the second period. Jake Dowell assisted on all three of the Hogs’ regulation goals and Danny Bois had the game-winner in the ninth round of the shootout. The deficit was the largest overcome by the Hogs in a win since joining the American Hockey League. It was also the Hogs’ fourth win in their last five outings.

Jack Skille will make his IceHogs debut after being reassigned by the Blackhawks on Sunday. The right winger notched a goal and an assist in five games with the parent club, logging more than seven minutes of ice time per game.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 23 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The first annual Hogtoberfest gets under way at 5 p.m. as the IceHogs host a block party on Elm Street and pre-game concert featuring rock band Night Ranger. Also, the first 4,000 fans will pick up a white long-sleeve T-shirt thanks to Dental Dimensions, U.S. Cellular, Guerilla Graffix and ESPN 1380.

HOGTOBERFEST THIS FRIDAY NIGHT

The Rockford IceHogs, Night Ranger and Pepsi to throw the biggest fall tailgate street party ever in Rockford

Rockford, Ill.- Starting at 5 pm, this Friday night, Elm Street outside of the MetroCentre will be converted into the biggest fall tailgate street party ever in downtown Rockford. Fans can come early for the game and rock out with Night Ranger as they perform their biggest hits on a huge stage in the middle of the street plus there will be contests to win prizes and autumn treats for all ages.

Night Ranger has a string of best-selling albums, selling more than 16 million copies worldwide. The band’s impressive list of instantly recognizable hit singles include “Sister Christian,” “(You Can Still) Rock In America,” “When You Close Your Eyes,” “Sentimental Street,” “Goodbye” and “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me.” The band is set to entertain the thousands of expected fans with a huge hydraulic portable stage pushing 50,000 watts of power for lights and sound brought in just for this event by the MetroCentre.

Fans will be able to register to win prizes including tickets to Saturday’s Blackhawks’ game at the United Center against the Nashville Predators and the fan who sports the wildest 80’s hairdo will win tickets to see the Blackhawks take on the Detroit Redwings on Saturday, December 20 at the United Center.

Center Plate will also be providing plenty of Pepsi, beer, hamburgers, brats, hot cider, hot chocolate and more. There will even be two special autumn themed adult beverages offered, Tail Gatin’ Cider featuring hot apple cider, Makers Mark™ whiskey and special fall spices, and Fire & Ice Hot Chocolate with peppermint schnapps and whipped cream.

Along with hot drinks, tents and special patio heaters will help keep fans comfortable. Immediately after the concert, fans will head inside the MetroCentre and cheer on the IceHogs as they face off against the Milwaukee Admirals in a heated divisional battle.

The first 4,000 fans to the game on Friday will also receive an IceHogs long sleeve shirt courtesy of ESPN Radio 1380 and Guerilla Graffix.

Advance tickets for the game start at just $12 and your ticket to the game gets you into Hogtoberfest. Get tickets at www.metrocentre.com, 815-968-5222, at the MetroCentre box office or at Hog Headquarters at Cherryvale Mall.

HOGS KICK OFF HOME SCHEDULE WITH TWO WINS

Rockford plays next eight games against division opponents

Week 3 Recap
The Rockford IceHogs kicked off 11 straight game against division opponents with a 2-1-0-0 record in Week 3. The Hogs won in dramatic fashion on Saturday, scoring three unanswered goals and capping the victory with a nine-round shootout. Rockford’s only loss came on Wednesday at the hands of the Chicago Wolves at the Allstate Arena, where the Hogs are 2-7-2-0 all time.

Week 3 Schedule
Wednesday, Oct. 14: Rockford 4 at Chicago 5
Friday, Oct. 16: Chicago 1 at Rockford 4
Saturday, Oct. 17: Peoria 3 at Rockford 4 SO

Week 4 Schedule
Wednesday, Oct. 21 at Peoria, 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 23 vs. Milwaukee, 7:05 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 24 at Peoria, 7 p.m.

Bacon Bits:

Centerman Jake Dowell was named the third captain in IceHogs AHL history on Friday

His three assists on Saturday set a season high for Rockford skaters in points scored in a game

It’s also a professional career high for the third-year skater

Dowell has three multi-point games this season after recording just two in 2008-09

The Rockford IceHogs are 2-0-0-0 at home in 2009-10 and 2-2-1-0 on the road

The team plays seven of their next ten games on the road

In 29 games when trailing after two periods in 2008-09, the IceHogs were 0-26-0-3

Rockford trailed 3-1 going into the final frame on Saturday and won 4-3 in the shootout

Before Saturday the IceHogs had not trailed going into the third period in 2009-10

The last five games played between Rockford and Peoria have ended in an overtime or shootout

Rockford is 3-0-1-1 in those games

Defenseman Daryl Boyle has an active four-game point streak (1g-3a) and three-game assist streak (3a)

The second-year skater is +6 in those games and +7 on the season to pace the team

Rockford is 6-4-0-1 all time in home openers after beating Chicago 4-1 on Friday

The IceHogs play their next eight games against West Division opponents

Hot Hog Week 3:
The week that he was named the IceHogs team captain, center Jake Dowell paced Rockford’s offense with five assists during Week 3 of the regular season. Dowell chipped in two helpers on Friday in Rockford’s 4-1 win over the Chicago Wolves then a night later he tallied the primary assist on all three of the IceHogs goals in regulation during the team’s 4-3 come-from-behind victory over Peoria. The center also recorded a plus/minus rating of +4 for the week and he leads the IceHogs in points overall in 2009-10 with a goal and six assists through seven games.

Upcoming Games:
Wednesday, Oct. 21 at Peoria Rivermen: The home-and-home series continues at 7 p.m. Rockford and Peoria meet again at the Carver Arena, Rockford’s second of three trips to Carver Arena in October. The game is the third of 10 on the campaign for the West Division rivals.

Friday, Oct. 23 vs. Milwaukee Admirals: Game time is 7:05 p.m. The first annual Hogtoberfest gets underway at 5 p.m. as the IceHogs host a block party on Elm Street and pre-game concert from rock band Night Ranger. Also, the first 4,000 fans will pick up a white long sleeve t-shirt thanks to Dental Dimensions, U.S. Cellular, Guerilla Graffix and ESPN 1380.

Saturday, Oct. 24 at Peoria Rivermen. The game starts at 7 p.m. The Hogs make their second visit of the week to the Carver Arena to face the Rivermen for their fourth and final time in October. The two team will clash ten times in 2009-10 but not again until Jan. 16 at Peoria.

The IceHogs Broadcasting Network:
Rockford IceHogs fans can catch all of the IceHogs regular and post-season games on the Hogs flagship radio station Rockford’s Voice, WNTA-AM 1330 and 30 regular season games on ESPN Radio 1380-AM, WTJK. Fans can also watch and listen to the Hogs on the World Wide Web with AHL Live! Visit the IceHogs Web site (icehogs.com) and click on the “click here to watch the AHL Live” icon, and for just $7, you can catch all of the IceHogs action on your computer. Also, fans with Comcast Cable television can tune in to Channel 57 for all the IceHogs hockey action this season. The broadcast begins with the Pregame Show 30 minutes before the puck drops. Make sure to give your opinion during the Comcast Post-Game Call-In Show following each game at (815) 874-8255.

Hog Talk Tonight At Cousin’s Bar and Grill:
Join Jim Stone from 6-7 p.m. tonight at Cousin’s Bar and Grill as he chats with IceHogs assistant coach Ted Dent as well as forward Bryan Bickell and defenseman Daryl Boyle. Cousin’s is located on the corner of East State St. and Perryville in Rockford, and take advantage of some great food and Bud Light specials. If you can’t make it out to Cousin’s, tune into 1330 AM, WNTA.

Tickets Now On Sale!
IceHogs individual game tickets are now on sale! Call (815) 968-5222 to reserve your seats for any IceHogs regular season game during the 2009-10 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford, at Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.centreevents.com. Tickets start at just $10.

HOGS POST BIG COMEBACK, WIN 4-3 IN SHOOTOUT

The IceHogs came back in dramatic fashion on Saturday to beat Peoria 4-3 in a shootout. (Photo by Greg Hamil)
10/17/2009 1:08 PM - Hogs down 3-0 as late as six minutes left in second period

Rockford, Ill.- It wasn't a place that the Rockford IceHogs were used to on the young season, but they played catch up on Friday against the Peoria Rivermen and did it well. The Hogs were down by three in the second period but came back to win 4-3 after a nine-round shootout at the Rockford MetroCentre.

In 29 games in 2008-09, the IceHogs trailed after two frames and they didn't win one of them. But thanks to two goals in the third, the Hogs posted two points in their first game of 2009-10 when trailing in the second intermission.

The Hogs are now 2-0-0-0 after two games at home in the young campaign, beating two of their closest rivals -- Peoria and Chicago -- in the Opening Weekend homestand.

"These games are huge," said Center Jake Dowell, who has five assists in the last two games and skated off the ice on Saturday with the No. 2 star honors. "I think we need to get as many points as we can at home. It's to our advantage obviously. Last year we saw how close it was last year and every point counts."

Matt Keith was the recipient of two Dowell passes for a multi-goal game in his second contest with Rockford. The verteran skater is playing for Rockford on a professional try-out.

To start the scoring, Yan Stastny beat Corey Crawford at 15:11 in the first period with an assist from Nicholas Drazenovic to put the Rivermen up 1-0.

Fletcher doubled the advantage at 8:29 in the second when he drove to the net, worked around Corey Crawford and put the puck in the back of the net. Chris Porter and Cam Paddock were credited with the assists.

And Brendan Bell potted his first goal of the season from the point at 13:12 in the second to add some insurance on the power play with helpers from Lars Eller and Stastny.

But then Bryan Bickell put the Hogs back within reach with a breakaway goal off a nice feed from Dowell at 15:35 to make the score 3-1.

And Dowell, who has five assists this weekend, won a face off in the Peoria zone, which Keith picked up and put it in for his first goal as an IceHogs skater just 18 seconds into the third period.

Keith again found the back of the net off of a centering feed from Dowell behind the cage at 16:15 in the third to even the score. Daryl Boyle also factored in on the lamp-llighter to extend his point streak to four games. He also leads the team with a +7 in as many games.

Then after a dramatic overtime, Danny Bois, Evan Brophey, Rob Klinkhammer and Derek Nesbitt beat Hannu Toivonen, while Eller, Adam Cracknell and Jonas Junland were the only Rivermen to score over Crawford.

The Rockford netminder stopped 25 shots for his third win of the season, while Toivonen had 26 saves in the loss. the Hogs were 0-for-1 in the man advantage and Peoria finished 1-for-4.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 23, 2009 vs. Milwaukee Admirals. The puck is set to drop at 7:05 p.m. The first 4,000 fans into the building will get a Make ‘Em See Red long sleeve t-shirt courtesy of Guerilla Graffix and ESPN 1380 for Red Out Night. Before the game the IceHogs will host their inaugural Hogtoberfest featuring the rock bank Night Ranger. Your ticket to the game will get you into the show. Concert grounds open at 5 p.m.

ICEHOGS KNOCK OFF WOLVES 4-1 IN HOME OPENER

The IceHogs and Wolves will play 10 times this season including three in the month of October.

The home opener went about as well as it could have for the Rockford IceHogs. The Hogs topped the Chicago Wolves 4-1 on Friday night at the Rockford MetroCentre, rebounding from a tough loss on Wednesday in Chicago.

Nathan Davis chipped in two goals, his second multi-goal game of the season, and Corey Crawford made 27 saves to lead Rockford to the win.

"I'm pretty happy with the way the season has started for me through training camp and the preseason," said Davis who after six games is now one goal shy of matching his season total from his rookie campaign. "Getting your timing back that early in the season pays dividends."

In the first, Rockford gave the Wolves a bit of their own medicine with a power-play goal from Danny Bois with assists by Brian Connelly and Daryl Boyle at 9:24. Bois tipped a Connelly drive past Manny Legace for his third goal of the season. Chicago had three power-play goals against Rockford on Wednesday.

But the Hogs let the Wolves catch up in the second when Tim Stapleton beat Corey Crawford with a snap shot glove side at 6:15 in the second. Spencer Machacek and Angelo Esposito had the assists.

"We play Chicago ten times," said Davis. "That's 1/8th of your schedule and could be the difference in the season. Getting a win against teams like this is the difference between getting in and not getting into the playoffs or getting home ice advantage or not. This was a key for us, making sure we take care of teams in our division."

Mark Cullen took the lead back for Rockford with his third goal of the season when he picked up a rebound from a Bois shot and put it in at 12:37. Simon Danis-Pepin picked up his first professional point on the assist.

Davis got in on the act with a breakaway lamp-lighter, matching Cullen's team lead for goals, at 17:26 into the second. Dowell, who was named Rockford's team captain on Friday, also picked up an assist.

"Chicago is an older veteran group who is really good on the power play. They have been hurting a lot of teams on the power play for years," said Davis. "So the biggest difference for us was keeping the game even strength and keeping fresher legs on the ice. The biggest part of tonight was keeping control of the puck, especially in their zone."

In the third period, Davis finished off Chicago when he buried an empty-net goal at 18:17, making it 4-1. Dowell also had a helper.

For just the third time in 22 all-time regular season games against Chicago, Rockford held the Wolves without a power play goal. Rockford finished 1-3 on the advantage while holding the Wolves to 0-2.

Next Home Game: Saturday, Oct. 17, 2009, Rockford IceHogs vs. Peoria Rivermen. Game time is 7:05 p.m. The IceHogs welcome the Rivermen into the MetroCentre for their second meeting of 2009-10. The first 5,000 fans into the building will get a magnet schedule courtesy of Dental Dimensions, Guerilla Graffix, 1330 WNTA, U.S. Cellular and WTVO.

DOWELL NAMED ICEHOGS CAPTAIN

Centerman Jake Dowell has been named to IceHogs team captain, the third in the team's American Hockey League history.
10/16/2009 12:57 PM - Rockford, Ill.- Center Jake Dowell was named the third team captain in the Rockford IceHogs’ American Hockey League era, Rockford Head Coach Bill Peters announced Friday.

The Eau Claire, Wis. native is playing in his third season with the IceHogs. During the 2008-09 campaign, he appeared in a career-high 75 games while tallying 20 points (6g-14a). He was also held scoreless in one game for the Chicago Blackhawks.

In his first two professional seasons, Dowell has appeared in 20 career games with the Blackhawks recording three points (2g-1a) and 12 PIMs. He has skated in 133 career AHL games, 124 with the IceHogs where he has notched 13 goals and 24 assists.

Dowell becomes the IceHogs third captain since the team joined the AHL after serving as the team’s alternate captain the past two seasons. Centerman Tim Brent was team captain during the 2008-09 season and defensemen Jim Fahey was captain in 2007-08. Mark Cullen and Bracken Kearns were named the alternate captains.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

Blackhawks Reassign Skille To Rockford

From chicagoblackhawks.com (link):

The Chicago Blackhawks have reassigned right wing Jack Skille to the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs.

Skille, 22, has notched one goal in four games with the Blackhawks this season. The seventh overall pick in the 2005 National Hockey League Entry Draft, Skille registered one goal in three North American preseason games with Chicago before being held scoreless in the team’s two contests in Zurich, Switzerland as part of the Victoria Cup.

Last season, he recorded one goal and five penalty minutes in eight regular-season games over two stints with the Blackhawks, which includes appearing in the squad’s first six regular-season matchups from Oct. 10 to 19.

The Madison, Wisconsin, native spent the majority of the 2008-09 season with Rockford, tying for second on the squad with a career-high 20 goals and finishing fourth with a career-best 45 points in just 58 games. Overall, Skille has appeared in 28 games with the Blackhawks over the last three seasons (2007-09) collecting seven points (5G, 2A).

Chicago (5-1-1) hosts the Dallas Stars at the United Center on Saturday at 7:30 P.M. The game can be seen on WGN-TV and heard on Chicago's WGN Radio 720. The Blackhawks’ 11 points through the first seven games marks their best start in 27 years.

GET READY: HOGS HOME OPENER IS FRIDAY

Hogs to honor local soldiers returning from Afghanistan on Friday

Rockford, Ill.- The Rockford IceHogs are set to open the home portion of their 2009-10 season when they face the Chicago Wolves on Friday and Peoria Rivermen on Saturday at the Rockford MetroCentre. The puck drops at 7:05 p.m. for both contests.

The MetroCentre’s new entrance at the intersection of Church and Chestnut streets will be open to patrons who have already purchased tickets. The building’s Will Call and Box Office remain at the intersection of Elm and Main streets and that entrance into the building will continue to be available.

The Hogs are also set to unveil a new video board introduction featuring alternative rock band Thousand Foot Krutch as well as the redesigned and revamped official game day program, now called IceHogs Insider. Like the Fat Stats, the IceHogs Insider will now be given away free and a game-day stat booklet – including game line-ups, team stats, a league round-up and contest entrance forms – will be available for $1 at the program stand.

Also on Friday, the first 5,000 fans into the building will pick up a set of bam bam sticks courtesy of U.S. Cellular and Dental Dimensions as well as an IceHogs wall calendar thanks to Maverick Media and 23 WIFR. Renowned singer Jim Cornelison, known for his spectacular performances to open Chicago Blackhawks games, will also be on hand sing the National Anthem.

Several members of the U.S. Armed Forces who returned from service in Afghanistan this summer will be honored at the game. Local members of the National Guard have been asked to drop the ceremonial first puck at the game.

On Saturday, the first 5,000 fans at the MetroCentre will get a 2009-10 magnet schedule thanks to Dental Dimensions, U.S. Cellular, WTVO, WNTA and Guerilla Graffix.

IceHogs individual game tickets are now on sale! Call (815) 968-5222 to reserve your seats for any IceHogs regular season game during the 2009-10 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford, or at Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.centreevents.com. Tickets start at just $10.

HOGS FALL 5-4 TO WOLVES AT ALLSTATE

Photo by Ross Dettman
Rockford's five game swing ends with a 2-2-1-0 records

Rosemont, Ill.- The back-and-forth battle ended in the Chicago Wolves' favor after the Rockford IceHogs gave up a two-goal in the third period to fall 5-4 at the Allstate Arena.

"You always want to be over .500 and we had an opportunity to go over .500 by a couple of games, but it didn’t happen," said IceHogs forward Bracken Kearns. "We will definitely try to get back at these guys on Friday."

Matt Anderson lit the lamp for Chicago at 11:39 in the first frame at the end of a power play with assists from Steve McCarthy and Paul Postma to start the scoring. But then Danny Bois got Rockford on the board when he finished a 2-on-1 breakaway with Brian Connelly when the puck bounced to Bois and then into the goal at 12:10.

At 17:37, Mark Cullen gave Rockford the lead just five seconds into a power play when he beat Manny Legace glove side on a one-timer from Connelly. Daryl Boyle also got a helper.

In the second period, Tim Stapleton plucked the puck out of midair and put it past Corey Crawford to even the score at 2-2 at 11:32 with helpers from Jason Krog and Josh Gratton.

Then Akim Aliu put the IceHogs back on top on a breakaway when Evan Brophey deflected a Chicago pass in the Rockford zone. Aliu drove down the ice and put it under Legace's glove at 14:00.

In the third, Rob Klinkhammer stripped Joey Crabb behind the Chicago net, worked around the goal and poked it in at 1:51 for a 4-2 Rockford lead.

But then the Wolves took advantage of a string of Rockford penalties. The Hogs fended off a 1:32 5-on-3, but Spencer Machacek solved Crawford in a scrum in front of the net at 5:03 with assists from Stapleton and Potsma.

“That 5-on-3, we were able to kill it off and they kind of scored on our tired penalty killers but that’s no excuse," Kearns said. "You have to make big plays in the third, but we just didn’t have it tonight.”

With the Wolves back on the power play, Potsma found the back of the net on a drive from the blue line at 7:06 to even the score again. Jamie Hunt and Angelo Esposito were credited with the helpers.

Then Anderson gave Chicago their first lead since 7:50 into the first frame when he beat Crawford over his right shoulder at 17:04 in the third. Andrew Kozek and Rylan Kaip get assists on the marker.

“We just kept giving them power plays and opportunities and they’re just going to capitalize," said Kearns. "We have to learn from that. It’s better to have these at the beginning of the year than at the end of the year."

Crawford took the loss with 33 saves, while Legace stopped 31 pucks. Chicago's power play continues to confound the IceHogs, finishing 3-for-6 on the advantage. Rockford was 1-for-3 on the power play.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

CORNELISON TO SING NATIONAL ANTHEM AT ICEHOGS HOME OPENER

Rockford, Ill.– Renowned singer Jim Cornelison will perform the “Star Spangled Banner” as a part of the 2009-10 Opening Night Festivities on Friday, the Rockford IceHogs announced.

The IceHogs take on I-90 rivals, the Chicago Wolves, at 7:05 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16 at the Rockford MetroCentre to kick off the home portion of the American Hockey League team’s 2009-10 schedule.

Cornelison, known for his electrifying renditions of the “Star Spangled Banner,” has opened Chicago Blackhawks home games for more than ten years, including last season’s Winter Classic at Wrigley Field.

Additionally, the first 5,000 fans through the doors of the MetroCentre on Friday will get a 2009-2010 IceHogs wall calendar, courtesy of Maverick Media and 23 WIFR, and a set of Bam Bam Sticks, thanks to Dental Dimensions and U.S. Cellular.

Opening Weekend continues on Saturday, Oct. 17 when the IceHogs take on the Peoria Rivermen at 7:05 p.m. at the MetroCentre. The first 5,000 fans through the doors will collect an IceHogs 2009-2010 magnet schedule, courtesy of Dental Dimensions, U.S. Cellular, WTVO Channel 17, WNTA 1330AM and Guerilla Graffix.

IceHogs individual game tickets are now on sale! Call (815) 968-5222 to reserve your seats for any IceHogs regular season game during the 2009-10 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford, or at Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.centreevents.com. Tickets start at just $10.

HOGS COMPLETE THREE-GAME SWING WITH TWO WINS

One more road game before home opener on Friday

Week 2 Recap
Back-and-forth the Rockford IceHogs went across the U.S.-Canada border during Week 2. During Rockford’s travels between Ontario and the states, they cracked the win column twice and have now earned standings points in three of their first four games, all on the road. The IceHogs finally return home this Friday night, but not before one final road stop in Rosemont against the Chicago Wolves on Wednesday.

Week 2 Schedule
Friday, Oct. 9: Rockford 0 at Hamilton 3
Saturday, Oct. 10: Rockford 3 at Lake Erie 0
Sunday, Oct. 11: Rockford 5 at Toronto 3

Week 3 Schedule
Wednesday, Oct. 14 at Chicago 7 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago, 7:05 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 17 vs. Peoria, 7:05 p.m.

Bacon Bits:

Rockford was shutout on Friday in Hamilton for the first time in 92 games dating back to March 21, 2008 when Quad City blanked them 2-0 at the MetroCentre

Corey Crawford earned his sixth career IceHogs shutout on Saturday in Lake Erie, second most in Rockford franchise history, three shy of Michel Robinson’s nine shutouts

In their first three games in 2009-10, the IceHogs did not score a goal in the second period

Rockford tallied four second period goals on Sunday in Toronto

Nine different players have accounted for Rockford’s 10 goals so far in 2009-10

Nathan Davis is the only IceHogs skater with two goals and he tallied both on Saturday in Lake Erie, his first career multi-goal game

Rockford is 5-0-0-0 all-time against the Toronto Marlies including 3-0-0-0 at Ricoh Coliseum

All three of Rockford’s wins at Toronto have come on the third day of three games in three days

Winger Bryan Ewing scored his first career AHL goal on Sunday in Toronto, Rockford’s game-winning goal

Goalie Joe Fallon picked up his first career AHL win on Sunday making 27 saves

Jake Dowell tallied his fourth career short handed goal with Rockford, tying him with Tim Brent for most shorties during the IceHogs AHL era and tying him for second all-time in Hogs history, two behind Preston Mizzi

Rockford and Lake Erie have played seven games all-time and the road team has won all of them including Rockford’s 3-0 win on Saturday at the Quicken Loans Arena

Photo by Ryan Pfeiffer
Hot Hog Week 2:
Making his 2009-10 IceHogs debut during Week 2, Corey Crawford was solid in his first weekend of action between the pipes. Rockford’s puck stopper made 38 saves to keep the IceHogs in the game on Friday in Hamilton and came back and earned his 10 career professional shutout on Saturday making 16 saves in Lake Erie pacing Rockford to a 3-0 win.

Upcoming Games:
Wednesday, Oct. 14 at Chicago Wolves: The rivaly resumes at 7 p.m. Rockford and Chicago renew their rivalry on Wednesday when the IceHogs travel to the Allstate Arena for the front end of a home-and-home series with the Wolves. The game is the first of 10 on the campaign for the West Division rivals.

Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves: Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs finally return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

Saturday, Oct. 17 vs. Peoria Rivermen. The game starts at 7:05 p.m. Hogs fans won’t have to wait long for game two on the home slate as the Hogs and Rivermen meet at the MetroCentre on Saturday. The first 5,000 fans to the game on Saturday will receive an IceHogs magnet schedule courtesy of Dental Dimensions, U.S. Cellular, Guerilla Graffix, WNTA and WTVO-TV channel 17.

The IceHogs Broadcasting Network:
Rockford IceHogs fans can catch all of the IceHogs regular and post-season games on the Hogs flagship radio station Rockford’s Voice, WNTA-AM 1330 and 30 regular season games on ESPN Radio 1380-AM, WTJK. Fans can also watch and listen to the Hogs on the World Wide Web with AHL Live! Visit the IceHogs Web site (icehogs.com) and click on the “click here to watch the AHL Live” icon, and for just $7, you can catch all of the IceHogs action on your computer. Also, fans with Comcast Cable television can tune in to Channel 57 for all the IceHogs hockey action this season. The broadcast begins with the Pregame Show 30 minutes before the puck drops. Make sure to give your opinion during the Comcast Post-Game Call-In Show following each game at (815) 874-8255.

No Hog Talk Tonight At Cousin’s Bar and Grill:
Due to the Rockford IceHogs travel schedule, there will be no Bud Light Hog Talk tonight at Cousin’s Bar and Grill. Join Jim Stone from 6-7 p.m. at Cousin’s next Monday as he chats IceHogs coaches and players. Cousin’s is located on the corner of East State St. and Perryville in Rockford, and take advantage of some great food and Bud Light specials. If you can’t make it out to Cousin’s, tune into 1330 AM, WNTA.

Tickets Now On Sale!
IceHogs individual game tickets are now on sale! Call (815) 968-5222 to reserve your seats for any IceHogs regular season game during the 2009-10 season. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Rockford MetroCentre Box Office in downtown Rockford, at Hog Headquarters inside Cherryvale Mall or on the Web at www.centreevents.com. Tickets start at just $10.

FALLON PICKS UP FIRST WIN AS HOGS ROLL THE MARLIES 5-3

Toronto, Ont.- A four-goal second period carried the Rockford IceHogs to their second straight win and a 5-3 victory over the Toronto Marlies at the Ricoh Coliseum in Toronto on Sunday.

Rockford goalie Joe Fallon made 27 saves to pick up his first career AHL win and Rockford received goals from five different skates. The IceHogs also moved their all-time record to 5-0-0-0 against the Marlies.

Winger Akim Aliu put Rockford in front with his first goal of the season at 4:04 of the opening frame. Aliu worked around Toronto defenseman Carl Gunnarsson and beat James Reimer for the 1-0 lead.

Toronto answered with two markers to grab a 2-1 advantage at the intermission. Defenseman Jonas Frogren scored his first goal of the season to tie the game after he beat Joe Fallon at 13:26 off of a Ryan Hamilton feed.

Then on a power play Jiri Tlusty put the Marlies on top. Tlusty picked up a shot that was initially blocked by IceHogs defenseman Richard Petiot and fired his second goal of the campaign over Fallon at 16:46.

Rockford exploded with four second period goals to take a 5-2 lead into the second intermission. Defenseman Daryl Boyle began the barrage when he fired his first goal of the season over the shoulder of Reimer at 2:52.

Rob Klinkhammer extended Rockford’s lead to 4-2 when he cleaned up a Bracken Kearns rebound at 4:21 for his first goal of the season. Later on a 5-on-3 power play, winger Bryan Ewing buried his first career AHL goal. Ewing picked up a rebound off of the back half wall from a Pete MacArthur shot and beat Reimer at 11:57.

The second period scoring was capped by a shorthanded goal from winger Jake Dowell. Dowell out skated the Marlies defense to a loose puck, skated in all alone and tallied the IceHogs first shortie of the season at 15:36 unassisted.

Toronto added a third goal to cut the deficit to 5-3. Tlusty finished off an Andre Deveaux centering pass for his second of the night at 14:18.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

DAVIS RETURNS HOME WITH A PAIR GOALS

IceHogs pick up first win of the season

Cleveland, Ohio.- When the Rockford IceHogs visited Lake Erie last April, center Nathan Davis, a Rocky River, Ohio native, was unable to play due to injury. Davis proved that good things do come to those who wait as the second year forward tallied a pair of goals in his return to his home town to help Rockford to a 3-0 win over the Monsters at the Quicken Loans Arena.

Davis buried the game’s first goal on the power play at 6:49 of the opening period. Richard Petiot dumped the puck in from center ice and with Tyler Weiman out of his goal, the puck deflected off the back half wall and right to Davis who tallied his first of the season.

Rockford peppered Weiman with 12 second period shots and put good pressure on the Monsters in their own zone but couldn't add to the 1-0 lead in the middle stanza.

Then in the third, Davis added to the IceHogs lead when he slipped in his second power-play goal of the night. Davis picked up an Evan Brophey feed and slid his second goal of the season off the skate of Weiman and into the back of the net at 11:06. Brophey finished with two assists.

Mark Cullen sealed it for Rockford with an empty net goal at 19:18 and Rockford preserved Corey Crawford's sixth career IceHogs shutout. Crawford made 16 saves in the win. Weiman made 24 stops for the Monsters.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.

BLACKHAWKS RECALL SKILLE FROM ROCKFORD

Chicago, Ill.-The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled right wing Jack Skille from the American Hockey League’s Rockford IceHogs. In addition, left wing Radek Smolenak (SMOH-lehm-nahk) has been claimed on waivers by the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The seventh overall pick in the 2005 National Hockey League Entry Draft, Skille registered one goal in three North American preseason games with the Blackhawks before being held scoreless in the team’s two contests in Zurich, Switzerland as part of the Victoria Cup. Last season, the 22 year-old forward recorded one goal and five penalty minutes in eight regular-season games over two stints with the Blackhawks, which includes appearing in the squad’s first six regular-season matchups from Oct. 10 to 19.

The Madison, Wisconsin, native spent the majority of the 2008-09 season with Rockford, tying for second on the squad with a career-high 20 goals and finishing fourth with a career-best 45 points in just 58 games. Overall, Skille has appeared in 24 games with the Blackhawks over the last two seasons, collecting six points (4G, 2A).

Smolenak, 22, made his Blackhawks debut on Thursday in the club’s 3-2 loss at the Detroit Red Wings, registering a fighting major in 4:41 of action. The Prague, Czech Republic, native originally joined the team when he claimed on waivers from Tampa Bay on September 25.

Next Home Game: Friday, Oct. 16 vs. Chicago Wolves. Game time is 7:05 p.m. After five-straight road tilts to open the 2009-10 regular season the IceHogs return home to face the Wolves. The first 5,000 fans to the game will pick up an IceHogs wall calendar from Maverick Media and 23 WIFR.