Dogs season ends with 3-1 loss in Game Seven

The Bulldogs got off to a great start, drawing a penalty just over a minute into the game as Julian Benner drove wide past TJ Friedmann in alone where he was hooked up. The Dogs couldn't gain much in the way of momentum on the man advantage though as the Grizzlies killed it off well. While the Dogs continued to push, they still found themselves in a 1-0 hole for a seventh straight game as a series of broken plays saw a shot be deflected wide of the net where it hit the end wall and bounced back to the top of the crease where Finn Withey found it and jammed it home. Assists on the play went to Marty Westhaver and Jordan Guiney at 6:24 of the first. The Bulldogs responded well to the goal against, and later in the period had a series of great chances on the rush as Kurtis Chapman came up with a great right toe save on Christian Simeone and a couple more stops on following rushes. Later in the period John Hawthorne came up with a big save on Alex Newhook on a set up by Jamie Rome to the deep slot to keep it 1-0 Grizzlies after 20 minutes. Shots were 12-11 Bulldogs.


The Grizzlies had a bit of a better push to begin the second, but the Bulldogs quickly pushed back to control the better of the play and generate some fantastic chances both on scrambles and on turnovers in the zone to the slot in the Victoria zone. They continued to be stymied into the back-half of the period, but didn't show any signs of being deflated. The Grizzlies countered later in the period with a series of good shifts, but the Dogs defended well to not give up any Grade A chances. They then created their best chance of the game in the final minute of the period as Mitch Oliver made a perfect stretch pass onto the tape of Jackson Doucet behind the Grizzlies defence where he skated in alone, but Chapman came up with a big left toe save to keep it 1-0 after 40 minutes. Shots in the period were 11-10 Bulldogs, for a 40 minute total in their favour of 23-21.


The Grizzlies got the critical next goal to double their lead just over four minutes into the third period on again somewhat of a broken play that was similar to the first goal in that it was somewhat of a nothing play that was initially broken up but Ethan Nother stuck with it below the goal line and jammed it out front where Cameron Thompson one-timed it in short-side past the glove of Hawthorne to make it 2-0 at 4:12 of the third. The Bulldogs drew an immediate power play, but critically couldn't cash in on it with a couple unforced errors at the attacking blue line giving up the zone. The Grizzlies put the game away just seconds later on a 3 on 3 rush where Cole Noble wasn't picked up driving down the right wing where he tapped a cross-ice feed by Jamie Rome into the open side before Hawthorne could get over. Also drawing an assist on the play was Shawn O'Malley at 6:44 of the third. Somehow, the Bulldogs immediately responded with an inspired push, but couldn't make anything click before the Grizzlies then took over for the middle part of the period to kill the better of the clock. Quite indicative of the Bulldog mindset from top to bottom all year long, they found a way to fight to the bitter end, getting the goalie out for the extra attacker with over a minute to play, and found a way to make 3-1 with a minute to play as Michael Sacco won a draw to the left point to Mitch Oliver. He would walk to the middle and put a quick shot on goal that was tipped on goal by Sacco before Julian Benner tapped it home on the goal line off the near post at 19:00 of the third. That's as close as they could get though, as the Grizzlies killed the remainder of the clock.


Third period shots were 10-9 Grizzlies for a game total of 32-31 Bulldogs. John Hawthorne took the loss, while Kurtis Chapman earned 1st star honours with the win. The Bulldogs went 0 for 2 on the power play while the Grizzlies didn't earn an advantage.


Thanks as always reading the blog and for your support and to those that have reached out with kind comments, and those that have gone over the top out of their way to make a donation.


The Blog won't be going anywhere, but it might be dark for a while as I take some rest/relaxation/recovery/family time.


Hammer

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There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

*As eloquently said by Gregg Drinnan of Taking Note - the best hockey/sports blog around

Bulldogs visit Grizzlies today for Game Seven *2:00pm*

It's the seventh and deciding game of this best of seven Island Division Semi Final series, as the Bulldogs visit the Victoria Grizzlies today at the Q Centre.

These teams of course met last night at the Dog Pound, where the Grizzlies won their third straight and sent the Dogs to their third straight loss to force today's game with a 4-2 win.

The two best words in hockey, and maybe sports.... "Game Seven" It's a unique experience to be involved in, and while the Bulldogs wouldn't have expected to be here up 3-0 in the series, they at the same time wouldn't have expected to have a 3-0 series lead to begin with. The first three games don't matter, and the last three games also mean absolutely nothing now. It's all about NOW, one game to move on or go home. It should be fun.

We'll be on the air starting with our pregame show at 1:45, with the puck drop and play by play to follow at 2:00 on Pacific Chevrolet Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM I'll call the play-by-play, while Bruce MacDonald will provide the colour commentary and analysis.

Today's 2nd Intermission guest is former Bulldog Trainer Matt Auerbach, now the Head Equipment Manager for the WHL's Victoria Royals.

If you aren't in listening range of 93.3 The Peak FM you can listen/watch the game by:

Listening Live on your computer: www.933thepeak.com
Listening Live on your SmartPhone : www.tunein.com/mobile/
Watching Live on your computer/SmartPhone www.hockeytv.com

Thanks as always for taking the time to check the blog - we'll see you/talk to you from the rink tonight! 

Hammer

____________________________________________________________

There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

*As eloquently said by Gregg Drinnan of Taking Note - the best hockey/sports blog around

Grizzlies top Bulldogs 4-2 to force Game 7

The Grizzlies opened the scoring for the sixth straight game, despite a better start by the Bulldogs as they got caught up ice on the rush and the Grizzlies countered on the transition. Carter Berger put a shot on net from the top of the left circle that was stopped by John Hawthorne, but Lach Hadley went to the net and out fought everyone to just tap the rebound home off the far post. Tanner Hopps drew the second assist at 2:54 of the first. The Grizzlies spent the next minute on the attack in the Dogs zone, but the Bulldogs held on to keep it a one-goal game. They would push back at moments throughout the period, coming painfully close to tying it up as a rebound went through the legs of Stephen Castagna on the side of the crease on an open net. The Grizzlies took a 2-0 lead late in the period as Drayson Pears took a cross-ice pass from Dayne Finnson and beat Hawthorne with a wrister far-side from the top of the right circle. Also drawing an assist on the play was Jordan Guiney at 18:56 of the first. The Bulldogs immediately responded and generated a scramble in the Victoria crease that had several open net looks and Kurtis Champman and a defender down on the ice in the paint to keep it out to protect the lead after 20 minutes. Shots in the first were 15-12 Grizzlies.


The Bulldogs generated another fantastic chance early in the second on a 2 on 1 rush where Michael Sacco kept the puck and shot from the right wing. Chapman made the save, with the rebound bouncing high in the air but just staying out off the post. The Grizzlies would respond and go up 3-0 on a quick pass from behind the goal line to the deep slot for Trevor Nolan, who snapped a quick shot long-side past the glove of Hawthorne. Also assisting was Alex Newhook at 4:20 of the second. The Grizzlies pushed immediately to build the lead, but Hawthorne came up with a couple big saves in tight to keep it close. The Bulldogs finally found the net just a minute and change later when Jackson Doucet found a loose puck below the goal line off a Paul Selleck faceoff win that he put to the top of the crease for Stephen Castagna, who one-timed it past the pad of Chapman to make it 3-1 at 5:41 of the second. There would be no scoring throughout the remainder of the period, but not for a lack of chances or excitement. The Bulldogs were penalized when Castagna clipped feet with Chapman below the goal line in the Grizzlies end when no initial penalty was called by the Referees, but a call was manufactured afterwards. The Bulldogs killed it, and also came close twice while shorthanded to getting within a goal, with Chapman again leaving his net to play it, turning it over to the slot, and in desperation to return to his net trip up Cole Poliziani as the crowd erupted and a pair of spectacles found their way onto the ice. The Bulldogs had several near misses around the net, but in the end they stayed misses as they couldn't get a bounce and Chapman was equal to the task. John Hawthorne was as well, as he came up with a big save on Jamie Rome alone in the slot with just over five minutes to play in the period to keep it 3-1 after 40 minutes. Shots were 15-12 Grizzlies in the period, for a 30-24 advantage for them after two periods.

The Bulldogs showed a desperate jump to their step early in the third, and quickly made a game of it as Stephen Castagna blocked a pass just outside the Victoria line that was found by Jackson Doucet. He gained the line up the right wing and walked into the top of the circle where he ripped a high hard one that appeared to go off the helmet of Chapman before ending up behind him and over the line to ignite the building and make it 3-2 at 4:22 of the third. The intensity was incredible over the following minutes, and the action fantastic as the Dogs pressed and the Grizzlies held on against the momentum. The Bulldogs had a couple painfully close bids on loose pucks at the side of the net that looked promising, but failed to find the net. The Dogs pulled their goalie for the extra attacker with just under two minutes to play. They generated a couple opportunities around the net and had pressure in the zone but couldn't generate a clean look before the last man back at the attacking line lost control of the puck to allow Cameron Thompson an empty net breakaway from his own zone to make it 4-2 Grizzlies, un-assisted at 18:40.

Third period shots were 9-9, for a game total of 39-33 Grizzlies. Both teams went 0 for 1 on the power play. Kurtis Chapman picked up the win while John Hawthorne took the loss.

With the win, the Grizzlies have forced a Game 7 tomorrow in Victoria at 2:00pm. Which will feel earlier - don't forget to set your clocks ahead an hour tonight!

Hammer

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There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

*As eloquently said by Gregg Drinnan of Taking Note - the best hockey/sports blog around

Bulldogs host Grizzlies tonight for Game Six

It's Game six of this best of seven Island Division Semi Finals series, as the Bulldogs host the Victoria Grizzlies tonight at the Multiplex.

The Bulldog Office is open at 9am today to commence ticket sales - season ticket holders have until 4:00pm today to purchase their seats - after that they go on sale to the general public.

The Grizzlies forced this game with their second straight win while facing elimination, 5-1 last night at the Q Centre

It's another must-win game for the Grizzlies, and the Bulldogs need to find a way to generate that same mentality to end this series and avoid a seventh and deciding game. I thought the Bulldogs played a great game last night - but one could argue that the final 55 minutes are of little consequence, no matter how good you may play when you spot your opposition a two goal lead. I'm on the other side of the puck that I was impressed with their mentality and desire - the bounces and breaks will sort out if you work for them and do the right things. I thought they did that last night. However, last night doesn't matter. The previous five games do not matter. Tonight does and being ready for the task at hand is everything.

The full crew will again be on hand in the booth to bring it all to you - Bruce MacDonald provides analysis and colour commentary, Dan Tisserand compiles and passes along team and individual statistics and I call the play-by-play. Van Isle Ford Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM is on the air for our pregame show at 6:45, followed by the puck drop at 7:00pm.

Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is Bulldog Goalie Coach Nolan Kurceba of Tech Mob Goalie Coaching and Consulting. 

If you aren't in listening range of 93.3 The Peak FM you can listen/watch the game by:

Listening Live on your computer: www.933thepeak.com
Listening Live on your SmartPhone : www.tunein.com/mobile/
Watching Live on your computer/SmartPhone www.hockeytv.com

Thanks as always for taking the time to check the blog - we'll see you/talk to you from the rink tonight! 

Hammer

____________________________________________________________

There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

*As eloquently said by Gregg Drinnan of Taking Note - the best hockey/sports blog around

Grizzlies force Game six with 5-1 win

The game had fantastic flow early, with no whistles beyond the first few seconds through the following three minutes. The next stoppage was when the Grizzlies opened the scoring, as they attacked on transition on the rush when Alex Newhook send Jamie Rome up the left wing where he snapped a shot short-side past the blocker of John Hawthorne to make it 1-0 at 3:34 of the first. Also drawing an assist on the play was Trevor Nolan. The Grizzlies continued to push as the Bulldogs didn't respond well to the goal against, as Ethan Nother found a rebound in front after a great first save seconds earlier by Hawthorne that he put home to double the lead, with assists going to Carter Berger and Justin Michaelian at 5:20 of the first. The Bulldog response this time was fantastic, as they spent the next couple of minutes generating a couple Grade A chances. Frustratingly, they couldn't capitalize on them as Dawson Tritt set up Keaton Mastrodonato on a 2 on 1 but he couldn't hit an open net past a diving Chapman. The Grizzlies drew a power play almost immediately afterwards, but the Dogs came up with a big kill to keep it a two-goal game. The Dogs kept pushing, as Cole Poliziani set up James Orban in the slot, but Chapman made a nice shoulder save. Later, Michael Sacco was set up in alone in the slot by Julian Benner, but Chapman came up with a big pad stop. The Bulldogs earned their first power play of the game later in the period, and threatened on it, with a crazy scramble off a slap pass by Tyler Vanuden being stopped, and two rebound bids failed to find the net. The Bulldogs put four pucks on goal, but couldn't trim the gap. The Grizzlies would score somewhat against the flow just 30 seconds later, on a somewhat broken play as a loose puck ended up at the side of the crease where Alex Newhook one-timed it home short-side to make it 3-0 at 16:54 from Matt Doran and Carter Berger. Shots in the first were 11-10 Grizzlies, with a large scale dust-up at the end of the period seeing a series of sticks and slashes and spears resulting in the Dogs getting the extra penalty.


The second period as a result began with four-aside hockey, followed by a short Victoria power play that the Bulldogs killed off. A Bulldog power play came about later in the period after the Grizzlies were called just two seconds into their man advantage as Shawn O'Malley wrapped his stick around the head of the opposing Bulldog centreman on the draw. The Bulldogs again looked good on the power play, but couldn't cash in, coming painfully close when Cole Poliziani beat Chapman but it hit the post and stayed out. The Dogs kept pushing throughout the period, and finally cashed in on a power play chance with one second left in it as Michael Sacco fed Mitch Oliver at the top of the point and he showed good patience while sliding left before firing a wrister on goal that was deflected home by Christian Simeone from the slide of the crease to make it 3-1 at 18:35 of the second. The critical shift after the goal was dreadful, as Jamie Rome walked un-checked up the left wing and across the blue line before sliding a pass down low to Carter Berger, who put a perfect cross-crease pass onto the tape of Alex Newhook who fired it into the open side for his second of the game just 41 seconds later to make it 4-1 at 19:06 of the second. Shots in the period were 12-7.


The Bulldogs began the third period with a jump that grew as the minutes wore on, but despite several fantastic chances the score stayed the same as Kurtis Chapman came up with a couple great saves on the doorstep, with some extra help added by his defence as he misplayed a dump in that was stolen by Tyler Vanuden who attempted to wrap it into the open side but was stopped. The Bulldogs kept pressing, but to no avail as they had more than a handful of opportunities and rebounds around Chapman but either couldn't get a bounce, or the Grizzlies defended well. There was no scoring throughout the period until the final seconds of it as Drayson Pears cleared the puck out of his zone up the right wing for Justin Michaelian. He gained the Dogs zone and had his first pass blocked but got a second crack at it that he made good on to find Lach Hadley down the left wing where he snuck a shot through the arm of Hawthorne to make it 5-1 at 19:36 of the third to complete the scoring.


Third period shots were 12-6 Bulldogs, for a game total of 34-24 of their favour. Kurtis Chapman earned third star honours with the win while John Hawthorne took the loss. The Dogs went 1 for 6 on the power play while the Grizzlies went 0 for 5.


With the win, the Grizzlies have forced a Game six tomorrow night at the Multiplex.


Hammer
 

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There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

*As eloquently said by Gregg Drinnan of Taking Note - the best hockey/sports blog around

Bulldogs visit Grizzlies tonight for Game Five

It's the fifth meeting between these teams in a week, as the Bulldogs visit the Grizzlies tonight at the Q Centre for Game Five of this Island Division Semi Final series.

The Grizzlies staved off elimination with a 4-1 win in Game Four Wednesday night at the Dog Pound, trimming the Bulldog series lead to 3-1.

After facing significant adversity in losing half of their Defence core while still finding a way to win in Game three, the Bulldogs faced an increased level of adversity and a further depleted line up with more injuries suffered in Game four that they'll carry into tonight's contest.

With the number of bodies that the Bulldogs could be without tonight, it perhaps can't be said any simpler than it needs to be all hands on deck, and everyone needs to give nothing short of their absolute best in all instances and opportunities if the Dogs hope to end the series and get some desperately needed healing time. Here's hoping they can bring that level of desperation. It's not about who's out - the Dogs can't spend one ounce of energy thinking about that, but instead who's in, and what they need to do. I'd expect the Grizzlies to feed off the new life that they've earned themselves, and they'll be feeling good.

Tune in, if you can't make it down, on Pacific Chevrolet Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM. Our pregame show commences the proceedings at 6:45, with the game action to follow at approximately 7:00. I'll take care of the hosting and play-by-play calling responsibilities, Bruce MacDonald handles the analysis and colour commentating and last but certainly not least statistician Dan Tisserand compiles team and player stats.


Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is Alex Rawnsley, play-by-play voice of the Powell River Kings, for an update on what's happening in the other Island Division Semi Final series between the Kings and the Nanaimo Clippers.

If you aren't in listening range of 93.3 The Peak FM you can listen/watch the game by:

Listening Live on your computer: www.933thepeak.com
Listening Live on your SmartPhone : www.tunein.com/mobile/
Watching Live on your computer/SmartPhone www.hockeytv.com

____________________________________________________________

There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

*As eloquently said by Gregg Drinnan of Taking Note - the best hockey/sports blog around

Did someone say Playoffs?! Version 4.0

Grizzlies top Bulldogs 4-1

The Grizzlies opened the scoring before the last reverberations of the opening faceoff had died down, as Ethan Nother found a loose puck and walked over the Bulldogs line up the right side where he zipped a quick release long-side off the post and in past the blocker of John Hawthorne to make it 1-0 just seven seconds into the first, un-assisted. The goal was a silencer for the large crowd, but only for a handful of seconds as the Bulldogs immediately attacked the Grizzlies zone and drew a penalty just 20 seconds later. While they didn't score on the advantage, they did generate a couple good chances and certainly settled any nerves they might have been feeling. The Grizzlies however put the pressure back on just short of seven minutes in when a rink-wide feed from the right half wall in the Bulldogs zone was found in the deep slot by Dayne Finnson. He walked in tight through the left circle where he put a perfect top corner shot short-side over the blocker of Hawthorne to make it 2-0, with assists to Ethan Nother and Drayson Pears at 6:56 of the first. The Grizzlies pushed hard on the next shift as the Dogs fought to turn the tide, but they did so quickly by drawing a penalty when Jamie Rome left his feet to hit Grayson Valente. A second penalty on a stick battle at the Victoria line seconds later resulted in a 5 on 3 power play for the Bulldogs of over a 1:20 in duration. It would take just nine seconds for them to take advantage of it, as Cole Poliziani took a Mitch Oliver pass at the top of the point and dished it off to the bottom of the left circle for Keaton Mastrodonato. He would make a perfect cross-crease pass for Michael Sacco, who one-timed it home into the open side past the glove of Chapman to make it 2-1 at 9:19 of the first. The Bulldogs couldn't take advantage of the momentum of remaining power play time as the Grizzlies killed it off. Victoria then pushed to try and pad their lead, with John Hawthorne coming up with a couple great saves, most notably on Ethan Nother in tight. The Grizzlies drew a power play late in the period and threatened including hitting the post, but couldn't cash in. Another Bulldog penalty came with just two seconds to play in the period. Shots after 20 minutes were 16-15 Grizzlies.


The Grizzlies restored their two goal lead before the second was a minute old, as Justin Michaelian took a hit over the Bulldog line up the right wing but managed to get the puck in deep. Matt Doran would find it, and made a perfect pass to the hash marks for Cameron Thompson, who one-timed it through the legs of Hawthorne to make it 3-1 at 58 seconds of the second. The Grizzlies pushed with the momentum in the following minutes but the Dogs held the fort to keep it a two-goal game. They would earn a four minute power play just over five minutes into the period when Ryan Nolan was called for back to back hits that one could argue were examples of targeting - one being called for charging, the other for a blow to the head with the accompanying misconduct. The Bulldogs weren't able to take advantage of it, appearing again to fight the puck a bit to the point that they conceded a breakaway that saw Marty Westhaver awarded a penalty shot that appeared to have minimal contact from the Bulldog backchecker. Hawthorne would stand a tall, with a big blocker save to keep the Dogs within two. Another shorthanded breakaway was allowed later in the period, with Hawthorne again coming up with a save on Cameron Thompson. Hawthorne continued to come up huge in the following minutes, with back to back saves on Shawn O'Malley on a one-timer from the slot, and a follow up rebound chance for Cameron Thompson. The Grizzlies pressed and built their lead to 4-1 late in the period, on an interesting play as Jamie Rome drove the net and was checked, and then got tied up on the ice with Mitch Oliver up the wall. Play continued as they fought on the ice away from the puck, and the Grizzlies worked a 2 on 1 down low to perfection as Ethan Nother slid it cross-crease under a defenders stick onto the tape of Alex Newhook who roofed it on a one-touch short-side over Hawthorne at 15:53 of the period. Shots in the frame were 16-12 Grizzlies, for a game total in their favour of 32-27 after 40 minutes.


The third period saw the Bulldogs get off to a good start for the first few minutes, but they lacked the extra jam to get enough offensive pressure to trim the deficit. They earned another power play four minutes in, but once again looked out of sorts on it and if anything lost momentum. Victoria earned a power play a few minutes later, but the Bulldogs did a good job to kill it off to keep within striking distance. They earned a couple more power play opportunities through the back half of the third, but rarely threatened as the Grizzlies made the lead stand. The hockey wasn't the prettiest to watch, as it was thoroughly nasty as the Officials did a commendable job of trying to keep the game under control.


Third period shots were 8-7 Grizzlies for a game total in their favour of 40-34 with Kurtis Chapman earning the win while John Hawthorne took the loss. The Bulldogs went 1 for 10 on the power play while the Grizzlies went 1 for 3.


With the win, the Grizzlies have forced a Game 5 Friday night at the Q Centre.


Hammer

____________________________________________________________

There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

*As eloquently said by Gregg Drinnan of Taking Note - the best hockey/sports blog around

Bulldogs host Grizzlies tonight for Game Four

It's Game four of this best of seven Island Division Semi Final series, as the Alberni Valley Bulldogs host the Victoria Grizzlies looking to advance to the Island Finals, holding a 3-0 series lead.


These teams met last night in a fantastic atmosphere at the Dog Pound, and played to overtime for a third straight game, with the Bulldogs winning their third straight 3-2


It's the first instance in the series where either side faces the prospect of advancing to the next round, or their season and/or career coming to and end, which always brings about a plethora of emotions and challenges. The Bulldogs showed great perseverance last night, down three Defenceman to still find a way to win. The Grizzlies certainly showed the same, coming up with a shorthanded equalizer - in the end all for naught - and bending and not breaking considering all the penalties they were handed in the final ten minutes. I'm not sure the status of the Bulldogs D-core, as the answer from Matt Hughes on the post game show was that there would be game time decisions. It's certainly a possibility that the Bulldogs will be moving different personnel into their line up.


Much like the Bulldogs focused on what they needed to do to win last night, as opposed to what winning last night meant - they need to do the same today in preparation of tonight's challenge. The Grizzlies will be at a new level of desperation and urgency which the Bulldogs need to match, and better.

If you're unable to get yourself to the rink, we'll bring the rink to you, on Van Isle Ford Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM. Dan Tisserand tabulates and provides player and team stats, Bruce MacDonald takes care of the analysis and adds colour commentary and I call the play-by-play.

Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is former Bulldog Harry Zolnierczyk, currently with the American Hockey League's Milwaukee Admirals. 

Harry's story has been a very fun one to watch, as he broke into the NHL with the Philadelphia Flyers after four years at Brown and became the first Bulldog to play in - and score in - the National Hockey League in the 2011 season and was along for the ride as the Flyers were a part of the HBO 24/7 Road to the Winter Classic season. He played part of the next season with the Flyers, before being traded to the Penguins where he got to play with some Crosby guy. He spent time in the Anaheim Ducks and New York Islander organizations over the following two years in 2014-2016, and only played three NHL games over those two seasons and it looked like his career might have been drawing to a close. He signed with the Nashville Predators in advance of the 2016-2017 season last year, and suddenly he's playing in the Stanley Cup Finals with the Preds, becoming the first former Bulldog to play in - and score in - the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

If you aren't in listening range of 93.3 The Peak FM you can listen/watch the game by:

Listening Live on your computer: www.933thepeak.com
Listening Live on your SmartPhone : www.tunein.com/mobile/
Watching Live on your computer/SmartPhone www.hockeytv.com

____________________________________________________________

There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

*As eloquently said by Gregg Drinnan of Taking Note - the best hockey/sports blog around

UPDATED with VIDEO - Bulldogs take 3-0 series lead with 3-2 overtime win over Grizzlies

A mirror image start to the hockey game from Game two, as the Grizzlies had immediate pressure in the opening minute hemming the Dogs in their zone. The difference being that the Bulldogs bent and didn't break in allowing an early goal. The Bulldogs pushed back over the following minutes, testing Kurtis Chapman in the Victoria net but being unable to beat him. Each team would have their chances throughout the period, the best of which being a Keaton Mastrodonato breakaway seven minutes in, but Chapman appeared to just get a piece of it with his glove to keep it out. The Bulldogs earned the first power play of the game in the late minutes of the first and generated a couple solid chances, but couldn't get a bounce. They would earn a second power play in the final minute of the period as Jamie Rome finished his check, but took the Bulldog defender into John Hawthorne to earn a roughing call. Shots in the first were 13-11 Bulldogs.


The Bulldogs began the second period on the power play, but couldn't connect on it despite a couple of good looks. The Grizzlies would counter and open the scoring on a off-speed wrister from the left point that was deflected past John Hawthorne by Marty Westhaver in the deep slot. Assists on the play went to Dayne Finnson and Drayson Pears at 4:48 of the second. The Bulldogs took a bench minor for too-many-men on the following shift, and the Grizzlies threatened on the power play but the penalty killers and John Hawthorne stood tall to keep it a one-goal game. That would prove huge just two minutes later, as the Bulldogs found the equalizer when Michael Sacco won a draw in the Dogs end that was banked off the glass up the left wing by Darren Rizzolo. Julian Benner would find it in full flight and have a partial step from a sharp angle where he threw a high shot on goal that hit the shaft of Chapman's stick short-side and bounced up in the air rink wide across the crease where it was carried over the line by a back-checking Grizzlies defender and over the line to tie it at 1-1. Assists on the play went to Darren Rizzolo and Spencer Hora at 8:37 of the second. The Grizzlies continued to have momentum, and spent the better part of the period on the attack in the Dogs zone but couldn't get the insurance marker as John Hawthorne was razor sharp, coming up with a handful of big saves, the most notable coming on Cameron Thompson in the slot with eight minutes to play in the period, and on Finn Withy three minutes later to keep it tied at 1-1 after 40 minutes. Shots in the period were 21-7 Grizzlies, for a 32-20 advantage after two periods.

The third period began with the tension obviously high, with the Bulldogs showing an improved jump to their step. They would take their first lead of the game - and in fact the SERIES, just over five minutes into the period when Paul Selleck collected a headman pass up the left wing from Cole Poliziani that he carried over the line into the top of the left circle that he ripped short-side past the blocker of Chapman to make it 2-1 with Sami Pharaon also drawing the assist at 5:15 of the third. The Bulldogs pushed throughout the period and had several good opportunities, the most notable seeing Champan make a great save on a backdoor one-timer on Luc Salem with eight minutes gone in the period. Emotions ran incredibly high later in the period, with the Bulldogs appearing to ice the puck but it was waved off. The Grizzlies bench would protest vociferously, and over the line in the Referees opinion as they picked up a bench minor. A follow up opportunity later saw them penalized resulting in a 5 on 3 for the Bulldogs of 1:32 in duration and the ejection of the Grizzlies Head Coach. The Bulldogs came painfully close on the opportunity, as Jackson Doucet beat Chapman but not the post, as it stayed 2-1. The Bulldogs again were given two power play opportunities in the final four minutes, but looked completely out of sorts, no doubt due to being without their top two defenceman, and the weight of the situation. They showed considerable panic with the puck into the final minute of play, as the Grizzlies pressed while down a man and tied the game at 2-2 with 50 seconds to play as a centering pass was found by Matt Doran, who ripped a shot high over the glove of Hawthorne at 19:10 of the third. The Grizzlies killed off the remaining seconds of the penalty, and came incredibly close to getting the game winner in the final seconds as Hawthorne came up with a desperation pad save in front on a one-timer centering pass to force the game to overtime. Third period shots 13-12 Bulldogs, for a 60 minute total of 44-33 Grizzlies

The Grizzlies had good pressure to start overtime, but the Bulldogs had the best chance on the counter as Julian Benner blew by a defender in alone where he was stopped by Chapman. Seconds later at the other end, Carter Berger went through everyone and in alone where Hawthorne came up with a game saver of his own. The Bulldogs pushed back and had a fantastic chance to win it as Christian Simeone chased a Sami Pharaon flip up the right wing off a won faceoff and stole it in the Grizzlies zone from Carter Berger. He walked it behind the net and put it out front for Paul Selleck, who again beat Chapman but rang the puck off the crossbar eight minutes into overtime. The Bulldogs continued to push, and got the game winner on a rush from their own end started by a nice defensive play in his own zone by Christian Simeone to win a race and chip it up the wall past a defender. He would have the wherewithal to immediately chase it down up the left wing to create a 3 on 2 rush that he carried over the line before dishing off rink-wide for Cole Poliziani up the right side. He made a perfect pass to the top of the crease for Michael Sacco, who beat his man to the net to deflect the cross-ice feed past Chapman to set off an only in the Dog Pound celebration for the 3-2 final score.

Overtime shots were 10-5 Grizzlies, for a game total in their favour of 54-38. John Hawthorne picked up the win while earning 1st star honours while Kurtis Chapman earned 3rd star honours while taking the loss.

With the win, the Bulldogs lead the sereis 3-0. Game four goes tomorrow night at the Multiplex.

Hammer

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There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

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Playoff Hockey back at the Multiplex, Bulldogs host Grizzlies tonight for Game Three

It's Game three of this best of seven Island Division Semi Final series, and the first post season game at the Alberni Valley Multiplex since March 9th 2016, as the Bulldogs host the Victoria Grizzlies tonight looking to take a 3-0 series lead. 

These teams last met Sunday afternoon in Victoria, where the Bulldogs won their second straight game to open the series, for the second straight game by a 5-4 score in overtime. 

It's perhaps an understatement that no one would have expected this to be the scenario entering play tonight. That's what the Playoffs are all about, and this is why I always say to expect the unexpected. A Bulldog win, and they take a 3-0 stranglehold and have a chance to advance tomorrow night. A Grizzlies win, and it's a brand new series. The Bulldogs can't think about what winning tonight means - they have to only focus on the task at hand, and what they need to do to win. The Grizzlies will no doubt be an extremely urgent team, and the Bulldogs need to once again match it and try to better it. 

It's obviously nice to be back on home ice - but that won't make anything any easier. It's never easy this time of year, and the farther you get each day it only gets harder. There's a chance that some players might feel some nerves at the prospect of being on home ice...but this crowd if anything has shown them all year long that they are behind them through thick and thin so I'd hope no one will be squeezing their stick too tight or trying to change their game. Just go out and play, and enjoy the opportunity.

It's certainly exciting just thinking about getting on the air from the Multiplex tonight. Van Isle Ford Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM goes live starting at 6:45 for the pregame show, with the puck dropping shortly after 7:00pm. Bruce MacDonald provides analysis and adds colour commentary, Dan Tisserand tabulates team and individual statistics and I'll call the play-by-play and take care of the hosting responsibilities.

Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is Dan Marshall, play-by-play voice of the Nanaimo Clippers, for an update on the Island Semi Final series between the Clippers and Powell River Kings.

If you aren't in listening range of 93.3 The Peak FM you can listen/watch the game by:

Listening Live on your computer: www.933thepeak.com
Listening Live on your SmartPhone : www.tunein.com/mobile/
Watching Live on your computer/SmartPhone www.hockeytv.com

____________________________________________________________

There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

*As eloquently said by Gregg Drinnan of Taking Note - the best hockey/sports blog around

Did someone say Playoffs?! Version 3.0

You might want to turn your volume/speakers etc down a bit before you hit play on this one.....you've been warned!

Perhaps my favourite/best/most memorable play-by-play call.. and perhaps Bruce's best as well.

Or maybe it's just the "moment" ? Or all of the above?

My favorite part about this moment... besides everything haha.... is just watching the reactions of everyone. On the ice, off the ice, in the stands, etc, and also Bruce's "less is more" approach. I've never been especially good at that, but the "And this place? Well......" part just gets me every time.

UPDATED with VIDEO - Dogs do it again, top Grizzlies 5-4 overtime for 2-0 series lead

The Grizzlies pushed immediately off the opening puck drop, keeping the Bulldogs in their zone for the first 45 seconds of the game. While the Bulldogs didn't give up anything, they were on their heels, and it was 1-0 immediately afterwards when Dayne Finnson made a nice move to make one defender miss to walk untouched into the hashmarks where he beat Hawthorne glove side. Assists on the play went to Ryan Nolan and Drayson Pears at 1:04 of the first. The Bulldogs continued to chase the game, and were penalized just three and a half minutes in. The Grizzlies had a couple dangerous looks around the Bulldog net, but couldn't cash in on them. The Bulldogs countered, as Julian Benner did a good job to chase down a rim on the far wall in the Grizzlies zone to poke it past a defender. He would again chase it down to create a down-low 2 on 1 that he executed perfectly with a cross-ice pass onto the tape of Michael Sacco off the left post that he one-timed home short-side past Zach Rose to tie it at 1-1 at 7:32 of the first. The Grizzlies would take the lead back five minutes later, as the Dogs failed to get the puck out of their zone on several occasions. Justin Michaelian would have a step to the net up the right side where he fought off a stick to make a perfect cross-crease feed onto the tape of Shawn O'Malley, who fired it into the open side to make it 2-1 Grizzlies at 12:41 of the first. The Bulldogs again refused to go away, pushing the pace and drawing a penalty with under four to play in the first. It would turn into a 5 on 3 of 1:29 in duration on a charging penalty to Drayson Pears, as he left his feet to hit Cole Poliziani behind the Victoria net. The two man advantage didn't last long, as after hitting the crossbar on the initial set up Mitch Oliver made no mistake on his second opportunity as Julian Benner gained the zone up the right wing and flipped it back to the left point for Darren Rizzolo. He would dish off to Oliver on the right side and take a return pass on the switch up before putting a perfect pass to Oliver at the top of the left circle where he blew a one-timer short-side off the paddle of Rose and in to tie the game at 2-2 at 17:21 of the first. The Dogs pressed on the remaining power play time, but couldn't get the go-ahead marker.  Shots in the period were 13-11 Bulldogs.


The Bulldogs got off to a much better start to the second, and had an edge in the play through the early minutes of the period, running up a shots on goal edge with a couple solid chances that Zach Rose came up with good saves on. The Grizzlies pushed on a good shift near the midway point of the period, but the Bulldogs didn't give up much in defending their zone. The Bulldogs were penalized with seven minutes to play in the period, but killed it off effectively with several instances of sticks in passing lanes clearing the zone and won battles down low resulting in killing off crucial time. The Bulldogs had a couple great chances late in the period, with Julian Benner hitting the crossbar and Jackson Doucet just missing the target on a pretty Dawson Tritt set up. In the end, neither team could find the net as the teams went into the third period for a second straight game tied at 2-2. Shots in the period were 16-13 Grizzlies, for a 29-25 advantage for the Grizzlies after 40 minutes.

The Bulldogs once again came out with a passionate push to begin the third, but couldn't get the go ahead marker with Rose coming up with a couple good saves. They would kill off a penalty again not giving up much within the first two minutes of the period, and again pushed back with good pressure in the Victoria end. The Bulldogs were penalized again four minutes later, after it looked like they might have drawn a penalty themselves. The Grizzlies would cash in on it this time, as a long battle was won in the far corner resulting in the puck ending up on the stick of Jamie Rome at the top of the left circle, where he beat a screened Hawthorne long-side to make it 3-2 Grizzlies at 7:52 of the third, with assists going to TJ Friedmann and Dayne Finnson drawing the assists. Once again, the Dogs didn't go away as they pushed right back with a great shift following the goal and didn't show any signs of sitting back. They would tie the game after drawing a penalty shot less than two minutes later, as Cole Poliziani was taken down by Nico Somerville on a breakaway. He would make no mistake with a rediculously silky move in tight, going to his backhand and roofing it short-side high over the blocker of Rose to tie it at 3-3 at 9:28 of the third. The teams traded chances over the following minutes, and the Grizzlies took the lead back with less than four minutes to play when Carter Berger put a shot at the goal from the top of the left circle that changed direction before just sneaking over the line. Justin Michaelian got credit for it, with TJ Friedmann also drawing an assist at 16:33 of the third. Once again, the Dogs answered as they pulled their goalie for the extra attacker with just under two minutes to play and a faceoff in the Victoria zone. The first draw was won but a shot was deflected out of play. The second draw was won by Michael Sacco, where it was tapped back to the line by Keaton Mastrodonato to Mitch Oliver at the left point. He would throw a quick wrister at the goal, where it was deflected by Sacco and stopped by Rose. Sacco would find his own rebound and pot it into the open net to tie the game at 4-4 at 18:37 of the third. Shots in the third were 17-14 Grizzlies, for a 60 minute total of 46-39 Grizzlies.

The Grizzlies had the first initial push in overtime, with the Bulldogs countering with an opportunity of their own on the next shift. The Grizzlies would have two Grade A chances to win it short of three minutes in, with John Hawthorne making a pad save on a deflection, and a rebound save following it off of Justin Michaelian at the side of the net. The Dogs would win it a minute later, with Spencer Hora making a fantastic play on one-on-one defence against Drayson Pears to tap the puck up the left wing for Julian Benner. He gained the attacking zone and delayed before finding Mitch Oliver walking up the middle of the slot untouched where he deked and had Rose down and out at his mercy before walking around him and sliding it home for the game winner and a crazy celebration in front of the Bulldog faithful at 3:56 of overtime.


Shots in overtime were 6-3 Grizzlies, for a game total in their favour of 52-42. John Hawthorne earned the win, while Zach Rose took the loss. The Bulldogs went 1 for 3 on the power play, while the Grizzlies went 1 for 4.


With the win, the Dogs take a 2-0 series lead back to the Dog Pound for Games 3 and 4 Tuesday and Wednesday.


Hammer

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There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

*As eloquently said by Gregg Drinnan of Taking Note - the best hockey/sports blog around

Bulldogs visit Grizzlies today for Game Two *2:00pm start*

It's Game two of this best of seven Island Division Semi Final series, as the Bulldogs visit the Grizzlies looking to take a 2-0 series lead back home for Game three Wednesday night.

These teams met to open the series in Victoria on Friday night, where the Bulldogs won 5-4 in overtime, in a game that they trailed in 2-0, and in which they never led in also battling back from 3-2 and 4-3 deficits in the third period.

As thrilling as the Bulldog win was, it means nothing now. Gotta love the playoffs. A big win one night, a heartbreaking loss the next night? Nothing matters but the NEXT night. Or in this instance, the next day, I guess.

The Bulldog win in Game one will have made the Grizzlies a desperate bunch and they certainly don't want to head to the Dog Pound Tuesday down 2-0. The Bulldogs have to find a way to match that level of desperation,  to want to head home with that lead more than the Grizzlies don't want it.

93.3 The Peak FM's coverage begins with our pregame show at 1:45, followed by the puck drop and game action at approximately 2:00pm on Pacific Chevrolet Bulldogs Hockey. Bruce MacDonald provides colour commentary and game analysis while I handle the hosting and call the play-by-play.

Today's 2nd Intermission guest is former Bulldog Captain Ryan Lough, who's playing his Senior season with the NCAA's St. Lawrence Saints

Anyone that's followed this team for a while can't help but have some memories flooding back at this time of year with Ryan, and in this building.

If you aren't in listening range of 93.3 The Peak FM you can listen/watch the game by:

Listening Live on your computer: www.933thepeak.com
Listening Live on your SmartPhone : www.tunein.com/mobile/
Watching Live on your computer/SmartPhone www.hockeytv.com

Thanks as always for visiting the blog!

Hammer

____________________________________________________________

There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

*As eloquently said by Gregg Drinnan of Taking Note - the best hockey/sports blog around

UPDATED WITH VIDEO - Dogs top Grizzlies 5-4 in overtime to take 1-0 series lead

The Bulldogs got off to a fantastic start, getting a couple pucks on net in the first 30 seconds of the game to test Zach Rose. The Bulldogs attacked off the ensuing draw and looked to have something going initially but Jackson Doucet took a high blindside hit from Ryan Nolan that went un-called as the Grizzlies exited the zone. As they entered the Dogs zone, Doucet would be called by the Referee a zone away for slashing on Alex Newhook. The Dogs did a fantastic job of killing it off, not allowing a single shot. They were once again penalized just a minute and a half later, but once again killed it off without allowing a shot. They were certainly on their heels however, as the Grizzlies continued to push and opened the scoring at the midway point of the period as the Bulldogs turned the puck over at the Victoria line and the Grizzlies countered on the rush. Matt Dorran would gain the line and throw the puck at the net where it appeared to be deflected off a leg of TJ Friedmann in the paint to make it 1-0 at 9:56 of the first with Justin Michaelian also drawing an assist on the play. The Grizzlies kept pushing, although the Dogs did a relatively good job of not giving up Grade A chances. The Bulldogs were penalized a third time in the period with three minutes to go, but John Hawthorne came up with a big save in tight to keep it a 1-0 game after 20 minutes, with the Bulldogs killing off the penalty before threatening in the dying seconds with both Julian Benner and Keaton Mastrodonato having great chances in tight that they couldn't convert on with Benner hitting the post and Mastrodonato missing the net. Shots were 12-4 Grizzlies after one.


The Bulldogs once again came out flying to start the second, having two great chances in the first half minute. They continued to have an edge through the opening minutes of the period, but couldn't even the score. They would then shoot themselves in the foot to fall into a 2-0 hole, as with nothing but time in their end they coughed it up to the hashmarks for Justin Michaelian, who beat Hawthorne with a quick release, high far-side past his blocker at 5:12 of the second. The Bulldogs pushed back hard over the crucial following minutes, and made it a 2-1 game seconds after missing a glorious chance in front as Sami Pharaon put the puck to centre ice up the right wing where it eluded Dayne Finnson. Keaton Mastrodonato found it, and tapped it to Dawson Tritt over the Grizzlies line up the right wing on a partial breakaway where he made no mistake for his first career goal with a perfectly placed quick release under the bar short-side over the glove of Rose at 8:01 of the second. Just 2:46 later, it was a 2-2 game as the Dogs again struck on the rush as Isaac Tonkin-Palmer took a pass at the Grizzlies line up the right wing from Michael Sacco. He would snap a low shot short-side that went off the stick of Rose and high in the air back to the slot. Mitch Oliver would find it and fire it inside the post far-side at 10:47 of the second. The Bulldogs pushed hard throughout the remainder of the period, earning their first power play and a second opportunity during it resulting in a 5 on 3 for 37 seconds in duration. They threatened, but Zach Rose was fantastic to keep the game tied. The Bulldogs earned another power play with less than two minutes to play in the frame and again had a couple near misses around the net as it remained tied at 2-2 after 40 minutes. Shots in the period were 20-14 Bulldogs, for a 26-24 advantage for the Grizzlies after two.


The Bulldogs again came out hard to start the third, and tested Rose a handful of times in the first two minutes. The Grizzlies responded took the lead back before the third was four minutes old, as the Dogs lost coverage in front of the net as Drayson Pears pinched in and carried the puck below the goal line and put a pass to the top of the crease to a wide open Cameron Thompson, who one-timed it high over Hawthorne to make it 3-2, with Dayne Finnson also drawing an assist at 3:28 of the third. The Bulldogs once again responded well to the goal against, drawing a penalty and capitalizing on it to tie the game as Tyler Vanuden found Julian Benner below the goal line at the right side of the net, where he made a perfect pass to the deep slot to Cole Poliziani, who beat Rose with a quick release far-side past his blocker to make it 3-3 at 7:53 of the third. It wasn't tied for long however, as the Grizzlies took the lead right back just 50 seconds later on a quick transition from a draw in their zone as quick pass was found by Justin Michaelian up the left wing over the Bulldog line. He would make a perfect cross-ice pass onto the tape of TJ Friedmann, who just snuck it in off the blocker of Hawthorne with Dayne Finnson also drawing an assist at 8:47 of the third. The Grizzlies pushed right back on the next shift, with Hawthorne coming up with a huge save in the paint to keep it a one-goal game. The Bulldogs refused to go away, and were rewarded for an extended attacking zone shift with several won battles and keeps at the line resulting in the equalizer as Darren Rizzolo kept the puck in at the left point and went across the line to Sami Pharaon. He put a quick shot on goal that was initially stopped by Rose, but Michael Sacco found the rebound at the far side of the crease and slid it home to make it 4-4 at 14:19 of the third. The Grizzlies were awarded a power play with under five minutes as Justian Michaelian was hooked on a partial breakaway that saw Hawthorne make a great follow up save with his right toe on TJ Friedmann. The Bulldogs again killed it off and didn't give up much. The Dogs pushed hard into the final minute, and had a great chance at the side of the goal with Rose down and out, only to have a Mitch Oliver shot hit him and stay out as the game went to overtime. Third period shots were 12-12 for a 60 minute total of 38-36 Grizzlies.


Overtime ended suddenly, as the Bulldogs ended it just 1:09 in as Darren Rizzolo made a great play to avoid traffic below the Dogs goal line to keep possession while avoiding a check. He would make a long pass to to the Victoria side of centre ice to Christian Simeone. He immediately dished off to the left side of centre to Cole Poliziani in full flight over the Victoria line. He would walk in to the top of the left circle where he unleashed a lazer top corner, far-side over the glove of Rose for the game winner to send his teammates off the bench for a wild celebration.


Overtime shots were 1-0 Bulldogs, for a game total of 38-37 Grizzlies with John Hawthorne picking up the win while Zach Rose took the loss. The Dogs went 1 for 4 on the power play while the Grizzlies 0 for 4.


Game two goes Sunday at 2:00pm at the Q Centre.


Hammer

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There has never been a subscription fee for this blog - and there never will be, but if you enjoy stopping by here, why not consider donating to the cause? Just click HERE. . . and thank you very much. *

*As eloquently said by Gregg Drinnan of Taking Note - the best hockey/sports blog around