Dogs drop fifth straight, 6-3 in Langley

Tonight's Game Report is brought to you courtesy of the Best Western Plus Barclay Hotel 

The BEST WESTERN PLUS Barclay Hotel, the largest full facility hotel in Port Alberni, BC. When staying with us there is no need to give up conveniences you are used to. You can discover treasures to take home at the Alberni Harbour Quay, and then browse our onsite Cold Beer, Wine Store and liquor store or retreat to our Stamps Cafe or Pastimes Sports Bar and Grill to enjoy a snack or to watch the game on our big screen TV. Then, relax in our sauna or pool before settling in our luxurious accommodations to enjoy the vintage wine picked up earlier. That's when you will truly understand why the tranquil setting of our hotel has been called the perfect place to call home. If traveling on business, our Port Alberni Hotel boasts over 4500 square feet of meeting space in four rooms that are perfect for small conventions, banquets, parties, meetings and weddings. AV equipment and catering are also available.

The Bulldogs looked like a different team from the opening puck drop, bringing everything that they lacked the nght before as they had a good jump to their step resulting in a couple good chances through the first couple of minutes. While they were better overall, and offensively, they weren't as good defensively as they needed to be as Brody Claeys came up with two big back-to-back breakaway saves on Nicholas Ponak and then Andrew Dumaresque to keep it scoreless. The period remained high-paced, and fairly evenly played through the midway point. Langley would earn the first power play chance of the game, but the Dogs came up with a solid kill with Claeys making one good save, and both Quinn Syrydiuk and Tristan Bukovec coming up with big shot blocks in the slot. The Bulldogs earned their first power play of the game in short order, and connected on it to open the scoring in the final seconds of the penalty as Ryan Steele walked to the top of the right circle before finding Alex MacDonald with a cross ice pass in the left circle. He would slide a pass down low for Henry Marshall, who simply just snapped a puck on net that appeared to catch Braedon Fleming either cheating, or by surprise as it snuck in through his legs to make it 1-0 at 16:02 of the first. Shots in the period were even at 9-9.

The second period saw the Rivermen tie the game after another solid Bulldog penalty kill as a loose puck was thrown to the back post where Brendan Budy snapped it home inside the post before Claeys could get over. Assists on the play went to Andrew Dumaresque and McKay Flanagan at 3:33 of the second. Langley would take their first lead of the game soon afterwards, on a fluky bounce thrown at the net by Spencer Barry that hit the ice and bounced in the air before being deflected in past the glove of Claeys by Max Kaufman. Ryan Barrow also drew an assist on the play at 6:04 of the second. The Rivermen went to the power play five minutes later, and connected on it to make it a 3-1 game as Cameron Ginetti had his first shot blocked, but the Dogs were unable to clear before he took a return pass and fired it home through the glove arm of Claeys. Assists on the play went to Max Kaufman and Reid Yochin at 11:14 of the second. The Dogs would be awarded a power play a minute later, and would again make good on it as Henry Marshall picked up a rimmed puck behind the net and made a quick pass to the slot for Quinn Syrydiuk. His initial one-timer was stopped, but Tristan Bukovec would fire the loose puck home to make it 3-2 at 13:23 of the second to make it 3-2 after 40 minutes. Shots in the second favoured Langley 14-6 for a two period advantage of 23-15.

The third period was again played at a high pace from the outset, with each team having their looks, but the Rivermen having the better of them. The score stayed 3-2 until just short of the midway point of the period when the Dogs had an attacking zone faceoff in the Langley end that they lost. A simple flip play saw the puck go over a Bulldog defender at the attacking line. The defender would hustle too late, allowing Nicholas Ponak to beat him to the puck and out-fight him in the slot to skate in alone where he snapped a beautiful shot top corner, over the glove of Claeys to make it 4-2 at 13:41 of the third. The Dogs earned a power play soon after, but coughed the puck up at the attacking line resulting in a shorthanded breakaway for Ponak, who out-fought the defense and cut across the crease before sliding a backhand home through the legs of Claeys to make it 5-2 at 13:41 of the third, shorthanded. The Bulldogs would earn another power play with just under four minutes to play, and they would call time out and gamble by pulling Brody Claeys. They would be rewarded for it as the gamble paid off when Jake Witkowski fired a shot on net from a sharp angle at the bottom of the left circle. A rebound would pop out to the slot where Quinn Syrydiuk, who blew a slap shot through the legs of Fleming to make it a 5-3 game, with Marshall and Bukovec drawing the assists at 16:43 of the third. The Bulldogs would keep their goalie out, and spent the better part of the final three minutes on the attack in the Langley net, but despite a large amount of chances they couldn't capitalize to make it a one-goal game before Ryan Barrow lifted one into the empty net with 37 seconds to play for the 6-3 final.

Third period shots favoured the Bulldogs 12-7, with the Rivermen leading the shot total 30-27. Brody Claeys took the loss while Braedon Fleming picked up the win. The Dogs went 3 for 4 on the power play, while the Rivermen went 1 for 3 while also scoring once while shorthanded.

The Dogs conclude their weekend tomorrow night in Chilliwack when they face the Chiefs for a 5:00pm start.

Hammer

Bulldogs visit Rivermen tonight in Langley *6:00pm START*

It's the first meeting of the season between the teams, as the Bulldogs (4-7-1-0, 5th Island) visit the Rivermen (3-7-2-0, 4th Mainland) at the George Preston Recreation Centre.

The Bulldogs were in action last night in Prince George, where they laid an egg in losing their fourth in a row 8-0 to the Spruce Kings. The Rivermen were also in action last night, on home ice where they lost their third in a row 5-4 to the Penticton Vees in double overtime.

It's the first time since the 2006-2007 season, by my count at least, that the Bulldogs will visit the George Preston Arena. The Langley Hornets used to call the building home, but ceased operations. The Langley Chiefs - formerly Chilliwack - moved to the Langley Event Centre, and played a couple seasons before the Langley franchise became the Rivermen. With the Vancouver Giants moving out of the Pacific Coliseum and into the Langley Event Centre, the Rivermen were forced to move to the old rink that once hosted the Langley BCHL franchise, that from all accounts has been thoroughly renovated and updated.

I'll have the action covered for you on Pacific Chevrolet Bulldogs Hockey on THE PEAK, starting with the pregame show at 5:45, with the puck drop and play-by-play to follow at 6:00pm.

Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is former Bulldog Josh Mitchell, who is now playing pro hockey with the Munich Crocodiles after a fantastic career with the NCAA's RIT Tigers

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

Hammer

Dogs blown out 8-0 in Prince George

Tonight's Game Report is brought to you courtesy of the Best Western Plus Barclay Hotel 

The BEST WESTERN PLUS Barclay Hotel, the largest full facility hotel in Port Alberni, BC. When staying with us there is no need to give up conveniences you are used to. You can discover treasures to take home at the Alberni Harbour Quay, and then browse our onsite Cold Beer, Wine Store and liquor store or retreat to our Stamps Cafe or Pastimes Sports Bar and Grill to enjoy a snack or to watch the game on our big screen TV. Then, relax in our sauna or pool before settling in our luxurious accommodations to enjoy the vintage wine picked up earlier. That's when you will truly understand why the tranquil setting of our hotel has been called the perfect place to call home. If traveling on business, our Port Alberni Hotel boasts over 4500 square feet of meeting space in four rooms that are perfect for small conventions, banquets, parties, meetings and weddings. AV equipment and catering are also available.

The Bulldogs were chasing the game from the get-go in this one, as they went to the penalty box just 30 seconds into the game. They pushed back after a good kill, but weren't able to generate much in the way of chances or a sustained attack. The Spruce Kings would open up a 1-0 lead just short of the midway point of the period when the Bulldogs won a faceoff in their end, but failed to move the puck. A quick centering pass by Kyle Johnson was initially mishandled by Jarod Hovde, but he dug it out of his skates in the deep slot and snapped a quick shot top corner, glove side on Schamerhorn to make it 1-0 at 9:53 of the first. The Spruce Kings continued to carry the play, with Carson Schamerhorn coming up with a huge save on Brett Mennear with his right toe on a clear cut breakaway to keep it a one-goal game. The Dogs earned a power play immediately afterwards, and while they opened it with a faceoff win and control in the Spruce Kings end, they moved the puck around the perimeter without attempting any shots before they turned it over and the Spruce Kings cleared. The Dogs again gained the zone, but the same scenario played out, as they not only didn't get a shot on net, but they didn't even attempt one. The Spruce Kings would earn no less than three in-alone and partial breakaway chances through the remainder of the period, with Carson Schamerhorn coming up huge on repeated occasions to keep the Dogs down just a goal after 20 minutes, despite being out shot 21-6.

The second period didn't see the Bulldogs come out as inspired as I was expecting, considering their level of play in the first. As the period wore on, they still struggled to find their game. Despite two power play chances, they failed to get any shots on net, and only had two shots on the period and eight on the game through the back half of the second. The Spruce Kings would build their lead at the end of a long containment shift in the Dogs zone as a centering pass from behind the goal line was found by Connor Russell in the slot, where he beat Schamerhorn with a perfect shot long-side past his blocker. Travis Schneider and Tanner Campbell drew the assists at 14:44 of the second. Just 24 seconds later it was a 3-0 game as Brett Mennear won a draw in the Dogs end back to the line for Tyler Anderson. He would blast a one-timer on net that went off the tip of Schamerhorn's glove and into the top of the net at 15:08 of the second. The Spruce Kings would make it 4-0 with just under two minutes left in the period as they beat the Bulldogs back to their zone and converted on an odd man-rush as a cross-ice pass found Tanner Campbell wide open at the side of the net, where he lifted a shot up and over a sprawling Schamerhorn. Assists on the play went to Jamie Huber and Brett Mennear at 18:05 of the second. The Dogs Coaching Staff would try and find any sense of urgency when they pulled their goalie with a faceoff in the Prince George end and 6.8 seconds left in the period. They won the draw and had a chance around the net, but couldn't convert as the period expired. Shots in the second favoured Prince George 18-4, for a two period total of 39-10.

The third period saw the Dogs had the most jump that they showed throughout the game through the first 90 seconds, but unfortunately the Spruce Kings again beat them to their net on the rush and went up 5-0 on a 2 on 1 rush that saw Hunter Luhmann put a perfect cross-ice pass onto the tape of Travis Schneider who tapped it into the open side at 1:59 of the third. The Spruce Kings would build the lead in the back half of the period on a full two-minute 5 on 3 power play that saw a cross-crease pass by Tanner Campbell hit the leg of Brett Mennear in the crease and bounce in. Jamie Huber also drew an assist at 10:29 of the third. The Spruce Kings went up by a converted touch down three minutes later, on a play very similar to their third goal as a faceoff was won in the Dogs end back to the line for Connor Russell, who snapped a wrist shot top corner short-side high past the blocker of Schamerhorn. Brett Mennear drew the only assist at 13:57 of the third. Less than a minute later it was an 8-0 game as the Dogs took a penalty away from the play out of frustration. The Spruce Kings made quick work on the advantage, with a draw win and a quick D-to-D pass that saw Connor Russell put one on the tape of Tyler Anderson who blew a slapper home inside the short-side post. Ben Poisson also drew an assist at 14:52 of the third.

Third period shots favoured the Spruce Kings 14-7 for a game total of 53-17, both season highs and season lows for shots for and against for the Bulldogs this season. Carson Schamerhorn took the loss while Stefan Wornig picked up the win and shut out. The Dogs went 0 for 5 on the power play while the Spruce Kings went 2 for 8.

The Dogs are next in action tomorrow night at 6:00 when they face the Rivermen in Langley.

Hammer

Bulldogs kick off three-in-three Mainland swing tonight in Prince George

It's the first meeting of the season between the teams tonight as the Bulldogs (4-6-1-0, 5th Island) kick off a three games in three nights swing through the Mainland Division by visiting the Spruce Kings (3-7-0-1, 5th Mainland) in Prince George.

The Bulldogs enter tonight on their first three game losing streak of the season after a 4-3 loss Saturday night at home to the Chilliwack Chiefs. The Spruce Kings were also last in action Saturday night, where they lost their second in a row, 8-1 to the Wild in Wenatchee in the back half of a double header.

Every road rink is a challenge in the BCHL, but the Rolling Mix Concrete Arena (it will always be the Coliseum to me) is one that is also unique. It's playing surface is smaller than regulation by 10 feet - which may not sound like much but it's certainly plenty at the pace these guys play at. The boards are also different than your average rink, with square corners that result in different bounces and end boards that are very lively and always seem to factor into the play. It's a tough place to adjust to as a visiting team, but an adjustment the Bulldog must make if they hope to head out of town with two points. 

The below picture illustrates the proximity of the broadcast booth to the benches - it's fun to watch from this perspective.

Here's a video to show what the rink is like, with a special appearance from "Hockey Grandma"

I'll have everything covered for you on Pacific Chevrolet Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM, with the pregame show taking the air at 6:45, with the puck drop and play-by-play to follow at 7:00.

Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is Mike Bordingon, play-by-play voice of the Langley Rivermen, who the Dogs visit tomorrow for a 6:00pm puck drop.

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

Hammer

Chiefs top Dogs 4-3

Tonight's Game Report is brought to you courtesy of the Best Western Plus Barclay Hotel 

The BEST WESTERN PLUS Barclay Hotel, the largest full facility hotel in Port Alberni, BC. When staying with us there is no need to give up conveniences you are used to. You can discover treasures to take home at the Alberni Harbour Quay, and then browse our onsite Cold Beer, Wine Store and liquor store or retreat to our Stamps Cafe or Pastimes Sports Bar and Grill to enjoy a snack or to watch the game on our big screen TV. Then, relax in our sauna or pool before settling in our luxurious accommodations to enjoy the vintage wine picked up earlier. That's when you will truly understand why the tranquil setting of our hotel has been called the perfect place to call home. If traveling on business, our Port Alberni Hotel boasts over 4500 square feet of meeting space in four rooms that are perfect for small conventions, banquets, parties, meetings and weddings. AV equipment and catering are also available.


After a late start due to the Officials being caught in a traffic accident, the Chiefs appeared to have an extra jump in their step on the Dogs through the first couple of minutes including a Bulldog power play opportunity. The Bulldogs would open the scoring soon afterwards from a faceoff outside the Chiefs blue line as Jake Witkowski won it forward to himself and dished off to Ryan Finnegan down the right wing. He would take an immediate return pass from Finnegan and beat Mark Sinclair with a lightning quick release short-side to make it 1-0 at 7:41 of the first. The Chiefs would respond quickly, connecting on the power play four minutes later as they moved the puck around the Dogs zone sharply to the bottom of the right circle where Jesse Lansdell ripped one home top corner, short-side high past the glove of Schamerhorn. Assists on the play went to Austin Chorney and Linden Hora at 11:27 of the first. Just three and a half minutes later the Chiefs took their first lead of the game as the Dogs failed to get the puck out at their line, with Jordan Kawaguchi making a great kick with his shinpad to hold it in. Kale Kane would the throw it to the middle to Tommy Lee who walked in tight and snapped one home top corner, far-side over the glove shoulder of Schamerhorn to make it 2-1 at 4:59 of the first. Shots favoured the Chiefs 13-4 after the first.

The second period began and it was an absolute circus from the get go with sticks being high before the puck was even dropped. That would continue as play commenced, with the Chiefs being penalized on the first shift. The Dogs would make good on the power play to tie it at 2-2 when Darren Rizzolo fed the puck back to the line for Henry Marshall. He would snap a low shot on net that was deflected home by Ryan Steele up and under the bar and over the glove of Sinclair. I thought it was in immediately, and so did the Referee at the net as he signaled goal as it was 2-2 at 1:23 of the second. The following few minutes saw a series of after the whistle dust-ups, leading to another incident that saw Jake Wilhelm knock down Will Calverly in pursuit of the puck. He would take the initial penalty, and as he regained his footing he was met by a charging Cole Piliziani who headlocked him and threw him to the ice. Everyone on the ice grabbed a partner and even a scrap broke out as Paul Savage and Nolan Zweep dropped the mitts. The Dogs would still end up down a man out of it all, as Auggie Moore received two apparently for receiving. Just 18 seconds later the Bulldogs were penalized again after an immediate head shot was missed at centre ice. The Chiefs would take full advantage of the opportunity and changed the game, first going up 3-2 on the 5 on 3 power play as Carver Watson picked the top corner from the deep slot past a screened Schamerhorn. Assists on the play went to Austin Chorney and Jordan Kawaguchi at 5:16 of the second. Just 18 seconds later the Chiefs connected on the power play again to make it 4-2 as Jake Smith walked to the slot and snapped one past the glove of Schamerhorn, with assists going to Austin Chorney and Carver Watson at 5:34 of the period. The even up calls were almost instantaneous, with the Chiefs being sent to the box a dozen seconds later. The Dogs would then go to a 5 on 3 less than a minute later. They would make good on it to make it a one-goal game as Trevor Cosgrove set up Jordan Sandhu at the bottom of the right circle where he went cross-ice with a perfect pass that was one-timed home short-side by Jake Witkowski to make it 4-3 at 7:02 of the second. That would do it for the scoring in the period, but there was still plenty of action. Jake Smith would be awarded a penalty shot with 6:31 left in the period, with the Dogs also being penalized up ice for kneeing on the play. Schamerhorn would make the save, and the Dogs would kill the penalty off. Immediately after the kill Quinn Syrydiuk kneed at the Cheifs line, but couldn't draw a call. An in alone chance for Tristan Bukovec resulted from the collision, He would show great patience and have Sinclair down and out, but he couldn't tuck it inside the post and Sinclair made a fantastic desperation save with his right toe to keep it 4-3 Chiefs after two with the Chiefs out shooting the Dogs 17-10 for a 40 minute advantage of 30-14.

The Bulldogs would have two great chances early in the third period, with both Alex MacDonald and Quinn Syrydiuk being stopped in tight by Mark Sinclair. Carson Schamerhorn was forced to be solid in the Dogs net as well, as the Chiefs pushed to build their lead. They would come close, hitting both the post and the crossbar, but the game stayed tight until the final moments. The Dogs would press, but would be unable to get their goalie out for the extra attacker until the final 20 seconds. They earned one face off in the Chiefs end, but couldn't generate a good chance to get the equalizer as the Chiefs made the lead stand.

Third period shots favoured Chilliwack 13-7, for a game total of 43-21. Carson Schamerhorn took the loss in net and earned second star honours while Mark Sinclair earned the win. The Dogs went 2 for 5 on the power play while the Chiefs went 3 for 7.

With the loss, the Dogs have lost three in a row for the first time this season. They are next in action Friday night in Prince George as they kick off a three-in-three swing through the Mainland Division.

Hammer

 

Dogs host Chiefs tonight to conclude five game home stand

It's the second meeting between the teams this season as the Bulldogs (4-5-0-1, T-4th Island) host the Chilliwack Chiefs (5-3-1-0, 2nd Mainland) to wrap up a five game home stand.

These teams met at the BCHL Showcase in Chilliwack on September 23rd, a 4-0 Chiefs victory.

The Dogs were in action last night on home ice where they lost their second straight, 5-3 to the Powell River Kings. The Chiefs were idle last night as they are only on the Island for two games. They last saw action Tuesday night in West Kelowna, where they fell 1-0 to the defending Fred Page Cup Champion Warriors 1-0 in overtime. They visit the Grizzlies in Victoria tomorrow afternoon.

From pregame to puck  drop to post game, 93.3 The Peak FM has you covered on Van Isle Ford Bulldogs Hockey with Bruce MacDonald providing the colour commentary and analysis, Dan Tisserand compiling team and player statistics while I cover the play-by-play. The pregame show kicks things off at 6:45.

Tonight's 2nd Intermission guest is Ryan Lepper,  play-by-play voice of the Prince George Spruce Kings, who the Bulldogs visit Friday to kick off a three game Interior/Mainland swing.

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

If you can't get enough hockey, don't forget that the Atom and Pee Wee tourneys continue through Monday at the Multiplex.

Hammer

Dogs suffer hard luck 5-3 loss to the Kings

Today's Game Report is brought to you courtesy of the Best Western Plus Barclay Hotel 

The BEST WESTERN PLUS Barclay Hotel, the largest full facility hotel in Port Alberni, BC. When staying with us there is no need to give up conveniences you are used to. You can discover treasures to take home at the Alberni Harbour Quay, and then browse our onsite Cold Beer, Wine Store and liquor store or retreat to our Stamps Cafe or Pastimes Sports Bar and Grill to enjoy a snack or to watch the game on our big screen TV. Then, relax in our sauna or pool before settling in our luxurious accommodations to enjoy the vintage wine picked up earlier. That's when you will truly understand why the tranquil setting of our hotel has been called the perfect place to call home. If traveling on business, our Port Alberni Hotel boasts over 4500 square feet of meeting space in four rooms that are perfect for small conventions, banquets, parties, meetings and weddings. AV equipment and catering are also available.

A high-paced start through the first couple of minutes, with the Bulldgs having the best early chances when both Alex MacDonald and Kyle Kaufmann had good looks open in front. The Bulldogs would continue to control the better of the play and had good chances in tight, but it was all of a sudden 1-0 against the flow of play just over six minutes in when Gavin Rauser went end to end down the right wing and snuck one in through what looked like an impossible angle through Brody Claeys. The goal was unassisted at 6:20 of the first. The Dogs continued to push the pace, and generated a handful of Grade A chances as a result, but quite similarly to the first goal it was suddenly 2-0 when the Kings went up ice on the rush and connected when Jack Long put a shot on net from the right wing that resulted in a cross-ice rebound that was tapped into the open side by Hunter Findlater at 10:49 of the first with Long drawing the only assist, as the Dogs had a 10-4 edge in shots, and a similar or better edge in chances, yet they were in a 2-0 hole. The Dogs did a good job of not letting the scoreboard deflate them through the rest of the period, but they still couldn't bury one. Shots favoured the Dogs 13-10 after 20 minutes.

The second period again resembled the first, as the Dogs had a couple extended scrambles around the Kings net, but still couldn't get a bounce as the Kings defended well. The Kings would push back and draw a penalty at the end of an extended containment shift in the Bulldogs zone. The Kings would connect on it, albeit in controversial fashion as a one-timer from the line was stopped by Carson Schamerhorn. The puck would bounce of his blocker and up in the air at the side of the net where it appeared to be thrown into the net by Cam Donaldson. The Bulldogs for the most part didn't protest, but Tristan Bukovec did, immediately drawing an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty for voicing his displeasure of the non-call. Cam Donaldson would get credit for it, with assists going to Callum Volpe and Kyle Betts at 9:00 of the second. The Dogs would kill off the following penalty, and just seconds later got on the board to make it a 3-1 game as Trevor Cosgrove fed Ryan Steele in the Dogs zone and he went end-to-end to the Kings net where his initial shot was stopped, but Alex MacDonald would be rewarded for going to the net as he one-timed the rebound home through the legs of Wilson at 11:13 of the second. The Dogs would make it a one-goal game three minutes later when they connected on their first power play of the game as Connor Welsh put a cross-ice pass onto the tape of Trevor Cosgrove at centre ice. He would immediately drive the zone and walk into the deep slot and absolutely rip a wrist shot top corner, short-side over the glove of Wilson to make it a 3-2 game at 14:10 of the period. The Bulldogs pushed hard for the equalizer, and came painfully close to getting it as a hard fought battle in the Kings zone saw Jordan Sandhu walk behind the net and out front with a wrap around that went off Wilson before being stopped right on the goal line. The Kings would respond and take their two goal lead back again against the flow of play as a Bulldog defender fell at centre ice, resulting in a long 2 on 1 rush. Carter Turnbull would make a perfect pass through the legs of the only man back and onto the tape of Tristan Mullin at the back post where he one-timed it into the open side to make it 4-2 at 17:28 of the second. Shots favoured the Bulldogs 13-12, for a two-period advantage of 26-22.

The Bulldogs pushed early in the third, and drew a power play opportunity to try and get within a goal. Unfortunately the deficit would grow, as the Kings cleared the puck down ice and Carson Schamerhorn went out of his net to play it. He held the puck, as Jake Witkowski looked on waiting for him to pass it. Before he could, Cam Donaldson would steal it, walk behind the net and dance out front where he put a perfect shot home top corner, short-side to make it 5-2, shorthanded and un-assisted at 2:42 of the third. As was the theme of the game, the Dogs appeared to not let the goal deflate them, as they continued to work hard to try and get back in it. They would earn a power play in the late stages of the third and again connected on it with just a handful of seconds remaining in it as Jake Witkowski made a great play to keep the puck in at the line. He would send Trevor Cosgrove to the net where he dished a perfect cross-ice pass onto the tape of Auggie Moore off to the left side of the zone where he blasted a one-timer home before Wilson could get over to make it 5-3 at 15:28 of the third. The Dogs would earn another power play just 20 seconds later, and once again had a couple good looks but couldn't get the critical goal to get within one. At the end of the penalty the Dogs appeared to maybe have deserved another advantage as the Kings player left the penalty box and went to the bench but didn't leave the ice as a Kings player jumped off the bench. The crowd was up in arms, but no Refs arms went up until 10 seconds later when Auggie Moore was penalized for a diving poke check where he looked to get puck first, but not to the Referee. The Dogs would pull their goalie to make it 5 on 5, and had two glorious chances in the final minute to make it a one-goal game but Brian Wilson went cross ice to make one fantastic open net save before Tristan Bukovec failed to find an open net just a second later with the Dogs pressing until the final buzzer but being unable to trim the gap.

Third period shots favoured the Bulldogs 13-9 for a game total in their favour of 39-31, a season high for shots on goal. The Dogs went 2 for 4 on the power play, while the Kings went 1 for 4 while also scoring once while shorthanded. Carson Schamerhorn took the loss in a relief effort while Brian Wilson earned third star honours with the win.

Hammer

Bulldogs add Kuhl, release Lee

BULLDOGS MAKE ROSTER MOVES

 

 

PRESS RELEASE

October 3, 2016

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Port Alberni, BC – The Alberni Valley Bulldogs are pleased toannounce the signing of defenseman Cameron Kuhl (Clifton Park, NY).

 

The 6-foot-2 Kuhl spent the last two seasons in United States Premier Junior Hockey League for the P.A.L. Junior Islanders where he scored 7 Points (1 Goal and 6 Assists) in 82 Games. 

 

To make room on the roster for Kuhl, the club has released forward Justin Lee who is expected to join the North Vancouver Wolfpack Junior "B." The Bulldogs would like to thank Justin for his efforts and welcome Cameron and his family to the Bulldogs organization. 

 

For further information or comment on the above story please contact Alberni Valley Bulldogs' head coach and general manager Kevin Willison 

Dogs host red hot Kings tonight, Thanksgiving Classic Atom and Peewee tourney

It's the first meeting of the season between the teams, as the Bulldogs (4-4-1-0, 4th Island) host the red hot Powell River Kings (6-4-0-0, 3rd Island) at the Multiplex.

The Bulldogs were last in action Sunday afternoon at home, where they fell 2-1 to the Coquitlam Express. The Kings last saw the ice Saturday night at home, where they won their SIXTH straight 3-2 over the Victoria Grizzlies in double overtime.

It goes without saying that the Dogs will need to be at their absolute best. The Kings are always a tough test, and you can bet that their current streak is no accident as they are the hottest team in the BCHL. The Kings started the season on a four game losing streak, and haven't lost since. Quite a turn around.

If you can't make it to the game, we'll bring the game to you on Van Isle Ford Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM. The pregame show gets the broadcast going at 6:45, with the puck drop to follow at 7:00pm with myself, Dan Tisserand and Bruce MacDonald.

Tonight's 2nd Interview guest is JB, the Director of Scouting, Media Relations and Colour Commentator for the Chilliwack Chiefs, who visit the Dog Pound tomorrow night.

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

The Alberni Valley Minor Hockey Association is hosting 16 teams from the Island and Lower Mainland for their annual Thanksgiving Classic. 16 teams will take part in the Atom and Peewee Divisions. For all the details, click the links below. Best Minor Hockey website in Canada bar none!

ATOM details

PEEWEE details

Hammer

VIDEO: Bulldogs 3 Vipers 2 in double OT

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Express top Dogs 2-1

Today's Game Report is brought to you courtesy of the Best Western Plus Barclay Hotel 

The BEST WESTERN PLUS Barclay Hotel, the largest full facility hotel in Port Alberni, BC. When staying with us there is no need to give up conveniences you are used to. You can discover treasures to take home at the Alberni Harbour Quay, and then browse our onsite Cold Beer, Wine Store and liquor store or retreat to our Stamps Cafe or Pastimes Sports Bar and Grill to enjoy a snack or to watch the game on our big screen TV. Then, relax in our sauna or pool before settling in our luxurious accommodations to enjoy the vintage wine picked up earlier. That's when you will truly understand why the tranquil setting of our hotel has been called the perfect place to call home. If traveling on business, our Port Alberni Hotel boasts over 4500 square feet of meeting space in four rooms that are perfect for small conventions, banquets, parties, meetings and weddings. AV equipment and catering are also available.

A fantastic start for the Bulldogs, as they pushed the pace early, and drew an early power play chance. While they failed to connect on it, they generated five shots and good momentum. They continued to carry the play, but Reid Cooper was solid in the Express net to keep it 0-0 through the midway mark of the first, with the Dogs up 9-2 in shots. As good as the Dogs were in the first 10 minutes, the Express matched them in the final 10 minutes of the period and pushed back and got their feet under them. Neither team would find the net through the first, with the Dogs holding a 12-11 advantage in shots.

The second period saw the Dogs to to an early power play, and they would connect on it to open the scoring as Auggie Moore picked up the puck behind the net from Ryan Steele, and set up Henry Marshall at the right side of the net. He would put a quick shot on goal that Reid Cooper stopped, but he couldn't control the rebound as Marshall continued to wack at it to poke it home five-hole and make it 1-0 at 3:32 of the second. The Dogs would go to the power play again soon afterwards, on the third call of the game against Coquitlam for slashing the hands out of an opponents stick. The Express were visibly upset with the call, and vociferously protested it. It might have been enough to earn a call or two or more, as at the end of the Bulldog power play Trevor Cosgrove was in front of the Express net on a loose puck. He didn't appear to hack the goalie, before being jumped and seriously mauled by Cal Walker. The extra two minutes would to to Cosgrove when the dust settled though. Soon after, the Express would end up on a 5 on 3 advantage of 1:25 in duration. Very early in that advantage Brody Claeys would stop a shot and cover it with his pad. An Express forward would slash at his knees to dislodge it, but a slashing call wouldn't be made the other way, despite Claeys showing his displeasure. Seconds later the Express would tie it up at David Guinta walked into the deep slot and snapped a shot top corner over the glove of Claeys, with assists going to Jordan Schulting and Owen Stout at 8:32 of the second. The Express would strike again to take a 2-1 lead five minutes later when they appeared to catch the Dogs defence changing as Jake Brien knocked down a dump in and then put a perfect stretch pass onto the tape of Alex Ambrosio for a breakaway. He would connect on it with a perfect low blocker side snap shot at 13:29 of the period. The Dogs responded well to trailing, with a good push back shift and some good chances, but they couldn't get the equalizer before the period elapsed. Shots in that period favoured the Dogs 17-10 for a two period advantage of 29-21.  

The Bulldogs put on a good push as the third period wore on, but still trailed through the midway point as Reid Cooper was solid in net when called upon. The Dogs would generate a couple solid scoring chances through the remainder of regulation, but in the end not enough to get the equalizer as the Express made the lead stand until the buzzer for the 2-1 final.

Shots in the third period favoured the Bulldogs 7-4, for a game total in the Bulldogs favour of 36-25. Brody Claeys took the loss while earning third star honours, while Reid Cooper picked up 1st star honours with the win. The Dogs went 1 for 4 on the power play while the Express went 1 for 3.

The Dogs are next in action Friday at home when they host the Powell River Kings.

Bulldogs host Express today for 2:00 start

 

It's the second meeting between these teams in the last eight days, as the Bulldogs (4-3-1-1, 4th Island) host the Coquitlam Express (2-5-0-1, 5th Mainland) for an afternoon affair at the Multiplex.

The Bulldogs were in action last night on home ice, where they picked up a thrilling 3-2 come from behind double overtime victory over the Vernon Vipers. The Express were in Nanaimo last night, where they saw their winless streak stretched to four with a 4-1 loss to the Clippers.

These teams met just last Saturday at the Showcase in Chilliwack, where the Dogs picked up a 2-1 win.

The 2:00pm start time means that Van Isle Ford Bulldogs Hockey on 93.3 The Peak FM is on the air at 1:45 for the pregame show. The full broadcast crew of Dan Tisserand, Bruce MacDonald and myself will be on hand to provide the team and player stats, colour and analysis and play-by-play and hosting.

Today's 2nd Intermission will feature an interview from the BCHL Report on TSN1040 Vancouver with former BCHL'er and current Vancouver Canuck Troy Stecher - who just scored his first NHL *preseason* goal earlier this week, on his journey through the BCHL to the NCAA and now to the Canucks.

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

Hammer

Dogs comeback to top Snakes 3-2 in double OT

Tonight's Game Report is brought to you courtesy of the Best Western Plus Barclay Hotel 

The BEST WESTERN PLUS Barclay Hotel, the largest full facility hotel in Port Alberni, BC. When staying with us there is no need to give up conveniences you are used to. You can discover treasures to take home at the Alberni Harbour Quay, and then browse our onsite Cold Beer, Wine Store and liquor store or retreat to our Stamps Cafe or Pastimes Sports Bar and Grill to enjoy a snack or to watch the game on our big screen TV. Then, relax in our sauna or pool before settling in our luxurious accommodations to enjoy the vintage wine picked up earlier. That's when you will truly understand why the tranquil setting of our hotel has been called the perfect place to call home. If traveling on business, our Port Alberni Hotel boasts over 4500 square feet of meeting space in four rooms that are perfect for small conventions, banquets, parties, meetings and weddings. AV equipment and catering are also available.

The Bulldogs had a good push in the opening 45 seconds, but the Vipers pushed right back and caught a tired line on the ice and almost opened the scoring as a shot from the point that Brody Claeys didn't see through the screen, but he was in good position as it hit his right toe and stayed out. The Dogs would get on the board just a minute later, when Connor Welsh went D-to-D across the Vipers line to Trevor Cosgrove. He would put a perfect wrist shot low and off the net where it was deflected back against the grain and just inside the post past Cole Demers by Ryan Steele to make it 1-0 at 1:56 of the first. The Dogs weren't able to build on the lead, as the Vipers pushed back and generated a handful of good chances before eventually tying the game just short of the midway mark of the period on an odd-man rush resulting from a Bulldog turnover at centre. A good head-man pass sent Tyler Maser over the line up the right side, where he stuck with the play and made a good cross-ice pass after having his initial pass blocked, onto the tape of Derek Osik who one-timed it through the legs of Claeys at 9:50 of the first. Shots favoured the Vipers 15-8 after one.

The Vipers would take their first lead of the game just over three minutes into the second, on an odd goal as Shane Kelly threw a wrister at the net from the right wing in the Dogs zone, and it took a funny bounce to sneak up and over the pad of Claeys and inside the post, short-side. to make it 2-1 at 3:21 of the second. The Vipers would push over the next couple of minutes and contain the Dogs in their zone and did a good job of getting pucks to the net from the line but they couldn't beat Claeys to build their lead. Late in the period the Bulldogs went to a four minute power play, but failed to generate much in the way of chances or pressure. The Vipers would get two fantastic chances in the dying moments of the penalty and the period, as Austin Adamson did a great job to get the puck out at his line, and then drive up the wing and through the defence to the Dogs net where Claeys made a great right toe save, and then a follow up glove save of a bounce of Riley Brandt to keep it a 2-1 game after 40 minutes. Shots in the period favoured Vernon 10-6 for a two period advantage of 25-14.

The third period didn't see much in the way of chances through the early minutes, but the Dogs pushed to battle and tie the game as Cayden Kraus dug the puck off the wall and put a cross-ice pass to the right point for Trevor Cosgrove. He would blow a slapper on net that was stopped by Demers, but the rebound rattled around until Jordan Sandhu found it and put it home to make it 2-2 at 10:16 of the third. There would be no scoring through the rest of the period, with the shots favouring the Bulldogs in the period 11-6 and the Vipers 31-25 after 60 minutes.

The Vipers had the best chance in the first overtime, with Brody Claeys making a huge shoulder save on Ryan Brushett on a cross-ice pass on a 2 on 1 rush as the game went to double overtime. The double OT would end quickly, with Auggie Moore doing a great job to steal the puck with good back pressure off a Viper defender and attack the zone down the right wing before dropping it for Connor Welsh who walked into the deep slot and put a perfect wrist shot top corner, short-side over the glove of Demers to set off a wild celebration for the 3-2 final.

The Dogs were out shot 4-3 in overtime, for a game total in Vernon's favour of 35-28, with Brody Claeys picking up 1st star honours with the win while Cole Demers took the loss. The Dogs went 0 for 2 on the power play while the Vipers went 0 for 4.

The Dogs are next in action tomorrow afternoon when they host the Coquitlam Express.

Hammer