Maulers Come Home with a 4 Game Sweep in Vegas

Ladies and gentlemen, you can bring out your brooms because the Maulers have swept Las Vegas! That's right your boys are coming home with a 4-0 record. The Missoula Maulers beat the New Mexico Renegades 8-0, the San Diego Gulls 6-2, the Long Beach Bombers 3-0 , and the Tulsa Jr. Oilers 7-0. Both Gronborg and Mcdaniel has shutouts (Gronborg with 2 straight.) With each game they played, all of the guys seemed to step their game up a little bit more. I was most impressed with our goaltending unit and the forwards. The goalies became more aggressive in the cage and even a bit more physical with the opposing players that came into their crease. The forwards stepped up their game by not relying on the defenseman to be aggressive and they drove the puck no matter the situation. In all reality, that is what the team was missing in all of their previous games. Pure aggression. To be able to keep up with teams such as the Idaho Jr Steelheads and the Ogden Mustangs you have to have no regrets about what you do during the periods and a player has to get mad. If a team and player is even going to have a chance at winning the Thorne Cup, they have to own each shift and stand their ground. Hopefully when the Maulers return to playing action at the Glacier Ice Rink, they can keep this style of play going.

Corey Schafer dominated this game and he started his scoring off at 3:21 in the first. Assists were given to Henrik Ekestahl and Connor McNally. The last goal scored in the first was from the stick of Joey Sundgren at 6:40. This power play geno was assisted by Henrik Ekestahl and Corey Schafer.

5 Maulers goals came in the second period. Joey Sundgren led the pack with yet another power play goal at 0:22. Once again, Henrik Ekestahl and Corey Schafer were there to lend him a helping hand. At 3:12, Corey Schafer put the biscuit in the basket. Apples were given to Anders Nord and Joey Sundgren. Max Rebholz scored an unassisted goal at 3:47. Newbie Craig Buford scored a goal at 9:02 and Tanner Todd scored the last goal of the game at 22:31 with an assist from Edward Pollon.

There were no goals in the "3rd" period.

This will be my last post on Maulers Recapped for the 2013 year so Happy Holidays everyone!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR

FROM SOPHIA RAUVOLA (ETIER) AT 

BISCUITS AND BREEZERS AND 

MAULERS RECAPPED!!!

Both of the team during the handshake after the game

Statistics:

PENALTIES:

Period 1:

Missoula Maulers - Erik Hartzell (Boarding) 2 Minutes, 5:37

Tulsa Jr Oilers - Thomas Puetz (Elbowing) 2 Minutes, 5:37

Tulsa Jr Oilers - Eric Messer (Hooking) 2 Minutes, 6:03

Missoula Maulers - John Andersson (Interference) 2 Minutes, 9:24

Missoula Maulers - Erich Jaeger (Holding) 2 Minutes, 9:55

Missoula Maulers - Erik Hartzell (Head Contact) (Major) 5 Minutes, 17:50

Missoula Maulers - Erik Hartzell (Head Contact) (Game Misconduct) 10 Minutes, 17:50

Tulsa Jr Oilers - Kale Trylinski (Boarding) 2 Minutes, 21:21

Tulsa Jr Oilers - Thomas Puetz (Hooking) 2 Minutes, 23:51

Period 2:

Missoula Maulers - Mason Jones (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 5:21

Missoula Maulers - Corey Schafer (Boarding) 2 Minutes, 12:19

Tulsa Jr Oilers - Hakim Senni (Too Many Men) 2 Minutes, 13:32

Missoula Maulers - John Andersson (Interference) 2 Minutes, 16:13

Period 3:
No penalties

SHOTS ON GOAL:

Missoula Maulers - 30 total

Tulsa Jr Oilers - 14 total

POWER PLAYS:

Missoula Maulers - 2 for 4

Tulsa Jr Oilers - 0 for 6

GOALTENDERS:

#1 Sebastian Gronborg for Missoula Maulers: 75 Minutes played, 14 shots on goal 14 saves

#31 Eric Messer for Tulsa Jr Oilers: 75 Minutes played, 30 shots on goal 23 saves

Out of this World Junior Hockey

Besides the Helena Bighorns vs. Missoula Maulers rivalry games, game 3 of the WSHL showcase could have been the best performance in junior hockey that I have ever seen. And I watch A LOT of junior hockey. Finally, for the first time in about 4 months, the Maulers are doing everything right. First off, can we talk about Sebastian Gronborg!! This guy is unbelievable in net, the better he plays, the more and more I am running out of words in the entire English dictionary to describe how this young goaltender is doing. The current words I am on right now would be stupendous, spectacular, and dynamite. Currently, there are about 2 words left to describe him in the cage He is the one key pieces that the Missoula Maulers needed to be successful and he was sitting on the bench taking stats most of this time! Whoever made the decision to put him in is one smart cookie. But seriously though, this guy is a beast on skates. In fact, take away beast and insert brick wall because the Bombers are shut out! I don't even know what he is doing in juniors anyway, Sebastian should be packing his bags on his way to play for Team Sweden at the WJC! I can't forget about the other boys either...round of applause for all of you. Something has finally clicked and your instincts are back. Drive the puck, don't stop for anything, and score. The performance I saw from the d-men and the forwards was impeccable. Spotless. Everyone was circling the puck at all times, everyone was being aggressive and standing their own ground, and everyone was on top of everything happening during shifts. The defenseman defended their zones perfectly and the forwards started breaking legs and taking names. That is how you are supposed play junior hockey. Every one on the team played their part to a "T" and the roster worked like a well oiled machine. I want each and every player to play exactly like that when they get back home to Missoula. What I saw was a playoff bound team.

There was no scoring in the first period.

Anders Nord got things rolling with a power play goal on #1 Jakub Krejci at 1:11 in the second. he had an assist from Henrik Ekestahl. Joey Sundgren jumped on the sniper wagon and scored a geno of his own at 2:01 with the help of Max Rebholz and Corey Schafer. Anders Nord also closed the game with a goal at 9:26. Apples were given to Corey Schafer and Joey Sundgren.

There were no goals in the "third" period.

The last game of the 2013 WSHL Shootout for your Missoula Maulers will be December 20th at 1:45 pm MST against the Tulsa Jr. Oilers so don't miss it!

Sebastian deserves this tonight by far

The boys on a well deserved rest after the game

Statistics:

PENALTIES:

Period 1:

Missoula Maulers - Corey Schafer (Boarding) 2 Minutes, 3:19

Missoula Maulers - Josh Chamberlain (Too Many Men) 2 Minutes, 5:31

Long Beach Bombers - Konstantin Kotkov (Boarding) 2 Minutes, 14:37

Long Beach Bombers - Xavier Boiseel-Dombreval (Elbowing) 2 Minutes, 17:58

Long Beach Bombers - Nicholas Short (Too Many Men) 2 Minutes, 20:42

Period 2:

Long Beach Bombers - Blake Sundy (Head Contact) 2 Minutes, 0:54

Missoula Maulers - Tyler Zandhuisen (Hooking) 2 Minutes, 10:05

Long Beach Bombers - Nicholas Short (Interference) 2 Minutes, 13:24

Missoula Maulers - Connor McNally (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 18:01

Long Beach Bombers - Valeriy Ledovskiy (Tripping) 2 Minutes, 20:43

Period 3:

No Penalties

SHOTS ON GOAL:

Missoula Maulers - 32 total

Long Beach Bombers - 21 total

POWER PLAYS:

Missoula Maulers - 1 for 6

Long Beach Bombers - 0 for 4

GOALTENDERS:

#1 Sebastian Gronborg for Missoula Maulers: 75 Minutes played, 21 shots on goal 21 saves

#1 Jakub Krejci for Long Beach Bombers: 75 Minutes played, 32 shots on goal 29 saves

Maulers Clip the Gulls 6-2

Your boys are at it again! During the 2nd day of the WSHL Showcase, the Missoula Maulers beat one of the best team in the whole league so far; the San Diego Gulls. In a game they were statistically supposed to lose, The boys clipped the Gull's wings not once, not twice, but 6 times in 75 minutes. This was also Cody Janzen's first win of the 2013-2014 season! So congratulations to him as well! I thought the boys played very well throughout the game and showed off some new skills that hadn't been seen before. Their performance was very clean cut and was executed  well. In my opinion, the forwards did exactly what they were supposed to do, there was always someone circling the puck, and the defensive boys were amazing! If they keep getting progressively better like this, they could eventually be at the top of the pack. Could we see another season just like the 2011-2012 one? Let's certainly hope so! I thought it was pretty impressive that they could go out there and beat a team with Niklas Kronwall's 6 ft 8 230 lb nephew on roster. I would love to see the boys take the rest of the series and give us one of the merriest of Christmas presents. There is a new side of aggression these players are bringing out and that is one of the best things to see in junior hockey. Slowly things are beginning to change for the better and so far they have kept things rolling. It's great to finally see the boys on a win streak and their spirits being lifted after many discerning losses. I think that seeing many of the guys enjoying themselves on the Vegas strip, instead of being stuck in a town with varying options, is letting them open up and relax. Maybe that is what they needed after all, time to relax between games and games that are closer together instead of a month apart. Either way the entire staff has to realize that these are also young guys and they need to have lives as well. I really hope all of them can keep up the good work and continue on their plays with a good and healthy work ethic that allows them to flexibly enjoy their season with out feeling rushed. Congratulations boys!!!

Edward Pollon started things off for the Maulers as he netted his own goal at 2:02 into the first period. He has assists from Tanner Todd and Matt Chamberlain. 15 minutes and 32 seconds later, Joey Sundgren put the biscuit in the basket with help from Connor McNally and Corey Schafer. One of the only San Diego goals came from defenseman #4 Will Parker. He has apples from forward #88 Cole Bohdan and defenseman #81 Kalvis Ozols. This 22:03 goal ended the first period.

Max Rebholz picked back up the pace in the second period as he lit the lamp at 8:51. There to help was Erich Jaeger and Nikita Sheptytskyy. Tanner Todd scored shortly after at 10:35. Edward Pollon and Matt Chamberlain were credited the assists. Swedish defenseman Henrik Ekestahl notched a goal of his own at 17:47 when Corey Schafer and Joey Sundgren helped him along. The last Gulls player to score was forward #5 Eric Baldwin on  a power play. Apples were given to #3 Michael Leone and #11 Drew DePalma when the goal was recorded at 18:37. The last goal of the match was credited to Maulers captain Anders Nord. Sniper Corey Schafer was there to assist him at 19:47.

There were no goals scored in the "3rd."

Tomorrow should be a tough match up against the Long Beach Bombers but hopefully they Zoo town boys can pull another win out of their hats. Here is the schedule for the rest of the tournament:
December 19th: vs. Long Beach Bombers @ 4:45 pm MST
December 20th: vs. Tulsa Jr Oilers @ 2:30 pm MST
There should be some good hockey played tomorrow and hopefully you don't miss any of it via FastHockey.com!

The Hand Shake

Statistics:

PENALTIES:

Period 1:

Missoula Maulers - Tyler Zandhuisen (Hooking) 2 Minutes, 6:14

Missoula Maulers - Matt Chamberlain (Cross Checking) 2 Minutes, 10:38

San Diego Gulls - Mark Birchall (Holding) 2 Minutes, 12:54

San Diego Gulls - Will Parker (Tripping) 2 Minutes, 15:16

San Diego Gulls - Austin Millard (Delay of Game) 2 Minutes, 17:48

Missoula Maulers - Derek Griffin (Delay of Game) 2 Minutes, 17:48

Missoula Maulers - Connor McNally (Head Contact) 2 Minutes, 20:12

Missoula Maulers - Austin Auzzinnaro (Head Contact) 2 Minutes, 22:45

Period 2: 

San Diego Gulls - Austin Millard (Tripping) 2 Minutes, 4:54

San Diego Gulls - Will Parker (Tripping) 2 Minutes, 13:48

San Diego Gulls - Lukas Perez (Charging) 2 Minutes, 17:33

Missoula Maulers - Joey Sundgren (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) 2 Minutes, 18:02

Missoula Maulers - Austin Auzzinnaro (Cross Checking) 2 Minutes, 21:07

Period 3:

No Penalties

SHOTS ON GOAL:

Missoula Maulers - 32 total

San Diego Gulls - 17 total

POWER PLAYS:

Missoula Maulers - 0 for 5

San Diego Gulls - 1 for 6

GOALTENDERS:

#31 Cody Janzen for Missoula Maulers: 75 Minutes played, 17 shots on goal 15 saves

#27 Erik Eidissen for San Diego Gulls: 75 Minutes played, 32 shots on goal 26 saves

The Drought is Over

Yes, you read the title correctly. The 11 game losing drought for your Missoula Maulers is finally over. The sweet and refreshing waters of victory have returned to Missoula for the first time since the Ogden Mustangs came to town. Also not only did the boys win, they shut out the Renegades with a score of 8-0! If you are in Las Vegas or were watching the game via FastHockey.com there was a new face to be seen out on the ice. This would be the face of newcomer '93 born Swedish defenseman #6 John Andersson! I am trying to find out more information on him for now and once I find out you will too. From my experience with the teams they are going  up against here in the next few days, here is some advice I would give to the boys for a better experience in Vegas. The first one would be bulk up the goaltending sections with a stronger mentality and physicality, put stronger defenseman out as frequently as you can, and put strong successive lines and players in a rotating cycle so no matter what time or period it is you always have at least one sniper out on the ice. I am very proud of these boys for asserting their dominance during these games and hopefully they will be able to win all 4 of them! I think the guys are finally stepping up and realizing that what they have to do to win is work as one solid core. So proud of these guys, they executed their game nearly perfect! Everyone was on their game and all the boys were on top of each play correctly. They executed plays really well and finally the forwards stayed close enough together that they could push through players and score on goal! Congratulations boys let's do it again!

Our veteran sniper, beast from the east, Corey Schafer started off the scoring at an amazing 1:20 after the start of the period. Craig Buford was given the assist. Rookie Derek Griffin found his spot to score at 13:18. Corey Schafer help him set that up. The last one to score in the first period was rook Max Rebholz. He scored 21 seconds later after he found his opportunity. Nikita Sheptytskyy and John Andersson were given the apples for this goal.

Joey Sundgren started off the scoring in the second. His power play goal came at 3:03 when he scored on tendy Brendan Hanser. Apples were given out to Corey Schafer and Derek Griffin. Then at 20:51, Max scored again with assists from Nikita Sheptytskyy and Austin Auzzinnaro. Tyler Zandhuisen scored on for himself at 23:13 when Craig Buford help set him up. Tanner Todd found the cage at 23:54. His geno was assisted by Niko Pukkila and Connor McNally. The last goal of the game was scored by McNally himself at 24:56. Erik Hartzell has the last apple.

There were no goals scored in the third period.

Here is the schedule for the rest of the tournament:
December 18th: vs. San Diego Gulls @ 12:15 pm MST
December 19th: vs. Long Beach Bombers @ 4:45 pm MST
December 20th: vs. Tulsa Jr Oilers @ 2:30 pm MST
Good luck boys you guys have the spirit and drive to be incredible!

The Maulers during the hand shake

Statistics:

PENALTIES:

Period 1:

Missoula Maulers - Joey Porco (Interference) 2 Minutes, 0:22

Missoula Maulers - Austin Auzzinnaro (Interference) 2 Minutes, 19:45

Period 2:

Missoula Maulers - Max Rebholz (Hooking) 2 Minutes, 0:52

New Mexico Renegades - Connor Rickabus (Fighting) (Major) 5 Minutes, 3:16

Missoula Maulers - Connor McNally (Fighting) (Major) 5 Minutes, 3:16

New Mexico Renegades - AJ Mussfeldt (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 12:07

New Mexico Renegades - Chandler Cole (Head Contact) 2 Minutes, 12:07

Missoula Maulers - Tyler Zandhuisen (Interference) 2 Minutes, 16:33

Period 3:

No penalties

SHOTS ON GOAL:

Missoula Maulers - 52 total

New Mexico Renegades - 19 total

POWER PLAYS:

Missoula Maulers - 1 for 2

New Mexico Renegades - 0 for 4

GOALTENDERS:

#30 Michael Mcdaniel for Missoula Maulers: 75 Minutes played, 19 shots on goal 19 saves

#35 Brendan Hanser for New Mexico Renegades: 75 Minutes played, 52 shots on goal 44 saves

Gronborg Kicks Things Up Another Degree in The Cage

With the Jr Steelheads series over, all of the games are finished except for the Las Vegas shoot out for the year of 2013. Sitting in the stands watching the boys play last night, I saw something in their eyes that I hadn't seen before. That was pure aggression and power. It seems that the team took some of my advice that I put out in the last blog and put it to very good use in this game. One of the great things to see in this game was Sebastian finally back in the net! He certainly saved the team from a lot of potential goals and on top of all that his net was crashed multiple times with 8 or 9 guys piled on at once! I am telling you, he is a fighter who never stops no matter the circumstances. Gronborg is as tough as nails and never fails to surprise me. As a hockey writer I have met with numerous players and I always love to meet the goaltenders especially and Sebastian Gronborg is at the top of my list with no doubt. He is definitely the complete package. Last night, he seemed more and more determined with each second that passed and his talents have improved vastly since the Zoo last saw him which was quite a while ago. His butterflies have gotten a lot better, his catching is cleaner, and it appears that he is even more confident in the net than he was at the start of the season. I certainly hope Missoula sees more of our star Swedish goaltender and could the famous and honorable Swedish Sensation name be passed down another generation to this lucky tendy? Hopefully (he has my vote) but we will just have to see what the public thinks as well! Congratulations on your incredible performance Sebastian! Before I head to the game review, I would like to compliment the rest of the team for their performances tonight. The defenseman are in no doubt starting to play more aggressively  and are starting to toughen up their game but there is still work that needs to be done. What they really need to do now, in my opinion, is just take the reins of the game and work in a way that is productive yet comfortable for them. I believe that they have what it takes to be strong and durable blue liners, but they just need to "plant" their feet in games and take control. Lastly, we have the forwards. They have stepped up their game as well, that was evident, but again they are still not up to their absolute best. They were attacking and rushing the puck more which was fantastic but they were still spread out and not close enough for each other to throw successful passes. I believe that if they would just drive through opposing forces and worry less about the play itself, they will be more successful. All in all, everyone did great and was heavily determined to win this game.

Kyle Williams drew first blood for the Steelheads when he scored his own short handed goal at 6:24. He was assisted by Anton Virtanen and Jesper Jensen. Your own Derek Griffin tied things up at 9:57 when he put the Maulers on the board, assisted by Max Rebholz and Nikita Sheptytskyy. This was the final goal of the first period.

The Steelheads scored again to start off the second at 11:49 from the stick of Jan Blasko. He had apples from Macky Power and Kyle Williams. Our fantastically talented Ukrainian forward Nikita Sheptytskyy netted a goal of his own immediately after at 11:49 in fact. He had help from Niko Pukkila and Erich Jaeger. The Jr Steelheads closed the scoring for the second with Jesper Jensen's goal at 16:07. Kyle Williams and Jan Blasko were given assists on that play.

Randy Patzner scored for Idaho when his goal came at 2:44. Hunter Lester and John Moritz were there to help him out on that one. The last Maulers goal came from Joey Sundgren at 13:32 which was unassisted. Oskar Af Bjur scored for the Jr Steelheads at 18:41 when Jesper Jensen and Philip Wong helped him rush the puck. The last goal of the game was from the stick of Dak Dice on an empty net at 19:01. Assists were given to Jan Blasko and Anton Virtanen.

The next home game will be January 2nd-4th when the Missoula Maulers host the Phoenix Knights. All games will be at 7:30 pm MST at the Glacier Ice Rink so make sure you don't miss out on any of that! The Las Vegas shoot out will be from December 17th-21st, which I will be covering as well. Good luck to the boys in that as they play many teams out of their division. In fact here is their schedule:
December 17th: vs. New Mexico Renegades @ 3:45 pm
December 18th: vs. San Diego Gulls @ 12:15 pm
December 19th: vs. Long Beach Bombers @ 4:45 pm
December 20th: vs. Tulsa Jr Oilers @ 2:30 pm
Then once that is all over, the boys are off on their Christmas holiday! It has been an exciting year of Maulers hockey so far with out a doubt! Enjoy a few pictures from the game!

The two Swedes Henrik and Sebastian during a play in the second!

Nikita Sheptytskyy and the other boys helping out with the Teddy Bear Toss

Sebastian Gronborg stands ready 

Statistics:

PENALTIES:

Period 1:

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Bryan Hodges (Interference) 2 Minutes, 2:36

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Philip Wong (Kneeing) 2 Minutes, 6:17

Missoula Maulers - Joey Porco (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 16:41

Period 2:

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Jan Blasko (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) 2 Minutes, 2:27

Missoula Maulers - Joey Sundgren (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) 2 Minutes, 2:27

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Philip Wong (Checking From Behind) 2 Minutes, 3:17

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Anton Virtanen (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) (Misconduct) 10 Minutes, 4:54

Missoula Maulers - Sebastian Gronborg (Interference) 2 Minutes, 6:14

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Bryan Hodges (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) (Misconduct) 10 Minutes, 7:19

Missoula Maulers - Tanner Todd (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) (Misconduct) 10 Minutes, 7:19

Missoula Maulers - Craig Buford (Hooking) 2 Minutes, 11:49

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Oskar Af Bjur (Cross Checking) 2 Minutes, 13:38

Missoula Maulers - Nikita Sheptytskyy (Interference) 2 Minutes, 16:38

Period 3:

Missoula Maulers - Derek Griffin (Cross Checking) 2 Minutes, 3:54

Missoula Maulers - Joey Sundgren (Hooking) 2 Minutes, 8:37

Missoula Maulers - Tanner Todd (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 8:37

Missoula Maulers - Austin Auzzinnaro (Interference) 2 Minutes, 11:46

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Jan Blasko (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 11:59

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Luc Gensler (Hooking) 2 Minutes, 14:39

SHOTS ON GOAL:

Missoula Maulers - 21 total

Idaho Jr Steelheads - 53 total

POWER PLAYS:

Missoula Maulers - 0 for 6

Idaho Jr Steelheads - 0 for 8

GOALTENDERS:

#1 Sebastian Gronborg for Missoula Maulers: 59:02 Minutes played, 52 shots on goal 47 saves

#1 Sean Healy for Idaho Jr Steelheads: 60 Minutes played, 21 shots on goal 18 saves

Jr Steelheads Have Rolled Into Zoo Town

Welcome back to another Maulers Recapped! I haven't talked with you guys for quite a while! Well, now we do have things to discuss. This weekend match up against the Idaho Jr Steelheads could possibly be one the toughest ones of the season. The Steelheads are an amazing team with such a powerful force that they absolutely steam roll over most teams. They have won 22 games out of their 24 played and are sitting comfortably at the top of the league with an outstanding 44 total points. They are reoccurring Thorne Cup champions and are overall just a physically aggressive and powerful team. Can your Maulers give them their 3rd loss of the entire season? We will just have to wait and see but for now, that hasn't happened yet. The Maulers unfortunately dropped the 1st game on December 13th, with a final of 6-1 in the Steelheads. Instead of doing my usual spiel about what the team did well in this game, I am going to discuss (completely in my opinion) what they need to do to win the final game of the match up on the 14th. First off, they need to get Swedish goaltender Sebastian Gronborg in net as fast as they can. He has only played 2 games out of the entire season up to this point and he needs more ice time! He is the most experienced goalie out of the bunch and could aid in the Maulers defensive force greatly. He absorbs each player as the game goes on and really should be playing more than he is. He is the brick that holds the tendys together and right now they aren't letting him do his job. Sebastian is a goaltender that rolls with the punches and isn't afraid to get swatted around once in a while. He takes the good with the bad and plays his best every time. In my opinion, they are severely underrating him, he could be their best asset. Next, the boys on the blue line better be prepared for some forceful blows and kick things up a notch quickly. So far they are used to teams with heavy defense but these Idaho boys are full force offense. They will take anybody down without a thought and are an enormous threat to any one in the WSHL. Our blue liners have so much potential but they need to toughen up quick and be prepared for some enormous players that are bringing a 100% game. Lastly, the offensive boys aren't off the hook either. They need to work closer than they ever have to fit through the small holes the Idaho players have to be able to even get a shot on goal. For the last couple of games I have noticed that Missoula's forwards like to be spread out while driving the puck, but if you are up against a team like this, you have to be as close knit as possible and put 100% faith into your line mates. They can't be turning over the puck and relying on the veterans. Every forward needs to be on full force and high alert at all times if they want to beat Idaho at a game they have easily perfected. In my personal opinion, the Missoula boys need to focus on the threat and tweak their game to fit the Achilles Heel of Idaho's team. Also they need to watch out for Jesper Jensen, Jan Blasko, Bryan Hodges, and Dak Dice especially because I know from personal experience that these guys are nitty gritty players and they will do their absolute hardest to get the goals no matter what it takes.This may be juniors, but things just got quite a bit more serious than they might have realized.

Forward #27 Zach Walden got the Steelheads on the board at  12:44 into the first. He was assisted by Swedish forwards #8 Philip Wong and #16 Jesper Jensen. To end the scoring of the 1st period, Slovakian forward #24 Jan Blasko put one past Janzen at 17:39. He was assisted by Philip Wong and forward #19 Macky Power.

Veteran forward and star player Corey Schafer scored the only Maulers goal of this game on a power play at 2:32 in the beginning of the second. He was assisted by rookies Austin Auzzinnaro and Max Rebholz. Forward #14 Randy Patzner scored two goal in the second. His first goal came at 7:01. On that goal he was assisted by defenseman #5 Ian Patrican. He wrapped the scoring up neatly at 15:09 when a beauty of a goal was completed with assists from Jan Blasko and forward #11 Dak Dice.

2 more Steelheads came Missoula's way in the third and final period. The first one was from forward #22 Hunter Lester at 3:33. He was assisted by forward #21 Bryan Hodges (who quickly scored a geno of his own) and Dak Dice. Hodges scored his own goal at 14:39. An apple was given to Philip Wong on this play. This was the last goal of the game.

Game # 2 will start at 7:30 pm MST on December 14th at Glacier Ice Rink. Don't miss out, it will be a great game to watch. This is the 4th annual Teddy Bear Toss as well as the last game of 2013!

Statistics:

PENALTIES:

Period 1:

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Jesper Jensen (Holding) 2 minutes, 3:28

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Randy Patzner (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 7:13

Missoula Maulers - Craig Buford (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 9:01

Missoula Maulers - Erich Jaeger (High Sticking) 2 Minutes, 16:52

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Bryan Hodges (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) (Misconduct) 10 Minutes, 17:39

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Jesper Jensen (Tripping) (Major) 5 Minutes, 18:50

Missoula Maulers - Joey Porco (Cross Checking) 2 Minutes, 18:50

Period 2:

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Jan Blasko (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 1:44

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Hunter Lester (Cross Checking) 2 Minutes, 11:22

Missoula Maulers - Tanner Todd (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 11:22

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Bryan Hodges (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 11:41

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Jesper Jensen (Fighting) (Major) 5 Minutes, 13:57

Missoula Maulers - Matt Chamberlain (Fighting) (Major) 5 Minutes, 13:57

Missoula Maulers - Christian Manning (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) (Misconduct) 10 Minutes, 15:09

Missoula Maulers - Craig Buford (Interference) 2 Minutes, 18:09

Missoula Maulers - Max Rebholz (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 19:01

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Jan Blasko (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 19:01

Period 3:

Missoula Maulers - Corey Schafer (Hooking) 2 Minutes, 5:41

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Hunter Lester (Hooking) 2 Minutes, 10:04

Missoula Maulers - Corey Schafer (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) (Misconduct) 10 Minutes, 19:21

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Dak Dice (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) (Misconduct) 10 Minutes, 19:21

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Jesper Jensen (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) (Misconduct) 2 Minutes, 19:21

Idaho Jr Steelheads - Zach Walden (Elbowing) (Major) 5 Minutes, 19:21

SHOTS ON GOAL:

Missoula Maulers - 29 total

Idaho Jr Steelheads - 49 total

POWER PLAYS:

Missoula Maulers - 1 for 7

Idaho Jr Steelheads - 0 for 4

GOALTENDERS:

#31 Cody Janzen for Missoula Maulers: 60 Minutes played, 49 shots on goal 43 saves

#1 Sean Healy for Idaho Jr Steelheads: 60 Minutes played, 29 shots on goal 28 saves

Maulers Fighting Comeback

What a game! Even though the boys dropped the game 5-4 they went down with a huge fight! The "advice" I suggested yesterday seemed to appear in shift orders and the boys stunned Ogden. They had amazing offensive forces,  had players always circling, and kept the puck in their control for most of the time. They made the Mustangs work extremely hard every minute of the game and were spot on for their power play goals. It was blaringly obvious that the boys wanted to win this thing or at least leave their mark on the town before they left, and that they did. Maulers recent returner Joey Sundgren showed why he was chosen to play in the NAHL by dominating the first period and soon the rest of the team followed. They raised their performance level exponentially and shown a new light that will make the league take a look at them in a whole new way. I am proud of you boys and I know that the Zoo is as well. You'll come back home to open arms and bright smiles. No matter the circumstances, you put up the best you could in this situation. Lastly, the defenseman were amazing! These guys played enormous and didn't shy away from their aggressive and physical side. Great game guys, you deserve a pat on the back and a comfortable trip back up to Missoula!

Notorious goal scorer Jon Mencer for the Ogden Mustangs drew first blood at 12:02 when he sent one flying past Janzen. Assists came from Cam Russell and Brody Decker. Then 1 minute and 3 seconds later, Joey Sundgren got the Maulers on the board with a power play goal assisted by Erich Jaeger. Jon Mencer got his second goal at 15:51. George Babos and Charlie Reed helped Mencer put the biscuit in the basket. Anders Nord scored the last goal of the first period on a power play at 20:00. There to help him out were Joey Sundgren and Corey Schafer.

The Mustangs were the only ones to score in the second period. The first goal came from Swedish aggressor Simon Teodorsson assisted by Anthony Catalina and Martin Hallin just 27 seconds after the start of the 2nd. Brody Decker scored the last goal of the second period at 1:09 when he received the puck from Jon Mencer and Mr. Charlie Reed.

Jimmy Peplinski started the scoring off but the Maulers ended it with style! Peplinski's goal happened at 7:50 assisted by Brody Decker and Justin Schebel. Derek Griffin then picked up the pace for your Missoula boys when he scored on a power play. The ever so talented rookie and younger Chamberlain, Josh Chamberlain, helped him achieve his goal. The last goal of the game was scored at 11:31 from the stick of Austin "Auzzie" Auzzinnaro. This was also on a power play and was assisted by the powerful pairing of Sundgren and Schafer.

Travel back home safely boys and let's get prepared for the Steelheads on December 13th and 14th! Both games will be at 7:30 pm MST at the one and only Glacier Ice Rink so make sure you bundle up and catch some great action at the GIRRRRRRRR!

Credit to the Ogden Mustangs Facebook page!

Statistics:

PENALTIES:

Period 1:

Ogden Mustangs - Brody Decker (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 12:02

Ogden Mustangs - Brody Decker (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) 2 Minutes, 9:28

Period 2:

Ogden Mustangs - Carson Duggar (Interference) 2 Minutes, 2:50

Missoula Maulers - Erik Hartzell (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 9:46

Ogden Mustangs - Anthony Catalina (Checking from Behind) 2 Minutes, 12:32

Period 3:

Ogden Mustangs - Tommy Pokorney (Tripping) 2 Minutes, 3:01

Ogden Mustangs - Martin Hallin (Kneeing) (Major) 5 Minutes, 8:25

Ogden Mustangs - Jimmy Peplinski (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 16:38

Ogden Mustangs - Tommy Pokorney (Cross Checking) 2 Minutes, 16:38

Missoula Maulers - Max Rebholz (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 16:38

SHOTS ON GOAL:

Missoula Maulers - 53 total

Ogden Mustangs - 45 total

POWER PLAYS:

Missoula Maulers - 4 for 7

Ogden Mustangs - 0 for 1

GOALTENDERS:

#31 Cody Janzen for Missoula Maulers: 60 Minutes played, 45 shots on goal 40 saves

#31 Connor Webb for Ogden Mustangs: 60 Minutes played, 53 shots on goal 49 saves

Quickly before I go this quite possibly could be

the best picture of the series! Tyler and Christian, what happened here?

Rough Ice in Ogden Utah as Series Goes into Game 3

As the snow rolled into Ogden tonight, so did another win for the Mustangs. Unfortunately the boys dropped Game 2 last night with a final score of 7-1. The team has been going through a bit of an 8 game drought lately but if they can play all of their cards right, they can pick up 2 points to head home with tomorrow. Now I know that some of you might be disappointed or discouraged, here is what I have to say about that....don't be. Every team goes through rough patches just like these ones and sooner or later it will rain. Preferably hats, but you get my point! In my opinion, the team needs to bump up most of the snipers to more shifts, play guys/lines that can keep the puck moving between each other for longer periods of time, and put the stronger d-men out as often as they can. I don't want any controversy whatsoever from this and I am not trying to criticize the very talented coaching staff in the least, this is just my opinion. I really want to see the boys have a huge win tomorrow and lay out all of the strengths they have. They deserve a win for how hard they have fought lately and I know for a fact that loads of people would L.O.V.E to see these great players bring home a big W to arrive back home with. We believe in you boys!

Ogden opened the scoring when points leader Dusty Watt put the biscuits in the basket at 1 minute and 57 seconds into the first period. He had help from his fellow team mates Sean Haltam and Tommy Pokorney. This was the last goal scored in the first.

Martin Hallin scored the second Mustangs goal at 4:19 in the beginning of the second period. Apples were given to Simon Teodorsson and Schuyler Seyfert. Veteran returner Corey Schafer netted the only Maulers goal at 6:22 when he slipped one past Fallica on a power play. Assists came from Anders Nord and Erich Jaeger. At 15:09, Schuyler tallied a goal of his own. The puck was passed to him from Jon Mencer and Jimmy Peplinski. Mencer then scored his first goal of the game at 19:07. Cam Russell and Schuyler Seyfert assisted him on that power play goal. Mencer's goal was the last of the second period.

Sean Haltam netted his first goal of the game in a quick 1 minute and 22 seconds after the start of the period. Seth Giles and Dusty Watt assisted him on that play. Soon after, Dusty Watt scored his second goal of the game and recorded his 6th point this series. This goal came at 5:24 along with an assist for Seth Giles. The last goal of the game was scored at 18:10 when Sven Johnson scored on Mcdaniel to kill the power play. Brody Decker and Anthony Catalina helped him along with that. Johnson's biscuit was the last of the game.

Hopefully we will see a 360 on the 8th and the boys can return to the Zoo with a total of 13 points in the NorthWest Division and 2 points away from current 5th place holders, the Seattle Totems. The boys will play the last and final game of this series at 11 am MST on December 8th and then will head home to play a 2 home series on December 13th and 14th against the current first place holders throughout the division and league with 40 total points; the nitty and gritty Idaho Jr Steelheads! Good luck boys, go get 'em!

Thanks to the Ogden Mustangs Facebook page!

Statistics:

PENALTIES:

Period 1: 

Missoula Maulers - Henrik Ekestahl (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 3:41

Ogden Mustangs - Simon Teodorsson (Interference) 2 Minutes, 6:32

Missoula Maulers - Matt Chamberlain (Delay of Game) 2 Minutes, 8:54

Ogden Mustangs - Jon Mencer (Delay of Game) 2 Minutes, 8:54

Ogden Mustangs - Brody Decker (Tripping) 2 Minutes, 9:40

Ogden Mustangs - Brody Decker (Holding) 2 Minutes, 16:03

Period 2:

Ogden Mustangs - Dusty Watt (Tripping) 2 Minutes, 5:24

Ogden Mustangs - Dusty Watt (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) (Misconduct) 10 Minutes, 5:24

Missoula Maulers - Craig Buford (Elbowing) 2 Minutes, 6:42

Ogden Mustangs - Sean Haltam (Interference) 2 Minutes, 8:21

Ogden Mustangs - Jon Mencer (Holding) 2 Minutes, 11:13

Missoula Maulers - Matt Chamberlain (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 14:29

Ogden Mustangs - Sean Haltam (Elbowing) 2 Minutes, 15:57

Missoula Maulers - Anders Nord (High Sticking) 2 Minutes, 16:00

Period 3:

Ogden Mustangs - Jon Mencer (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) 2 Minutes, 5:24

Missoula Maulers - Corey Schafer (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) 2 Minutes, 6:27

Ogden Mustangs - Carson Duggar (Too Many Men) 2 Minutes, 8:26

Ogden Mustangs - Sven Johnson (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) 2 Minutes, 8:26

Missoula Maulers - Matt Chamberlain (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 8:53

Ogden Mustangs - Jon Mencer (Tripping) 2 Minutes, 15:14

Missoula Maulers - Nikita Sheptytskyy (Holding) 2 Minutes, 15:14

Ogden Mustangs - Tyler Underwood (Fighing) (Instigator) 2 Minutes, 15:15

Missoula Maulers - Joey Porco (Fighting) (Instigator) 2 Minutes, 15:15

Missoula Maulers - Billy Bigham (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 15:15

SHOTS ON GOAL:

Missoula Maulers - 36 total

Ogden Mustangs - 37 total

POWER PLAYS

Missoula Maulers - 1 for 11

Ogden Mustangs - 2 for 7

GOALTENDERS

#30 Michael Mcdaniel for Missoula Maulers: 60 Minutes played, 37 shots on goal 30 saves

#35 Tyler Fallica for Ogden Mustangs: 60 Minutes played, 36 shots on goal 35 saves

Janzen Stands Tall for start of Ogden Series

Welcome back to Maulers Recapped! It has been quite a while since I have posted on here and I am very glad to be back! I hope everyone and all the players had a good Thanksgiving break and are well rested! As you might know, your Missoula Maulers have headed  down to chilly Ogden, Utah for a three game series against the very aggressive Ogden Mustangs. The boys left the Zoo at about 6:30 yesterday morning and were headed off until they hit a rough patch in Butte, MT. Unfortunately, the bus' air lines froze due to extremely cold temperatures and the team had to make an emergency stop so alcohol could be poured into the lines to allow them to thaw. They were back on the road quickly and even had time to stop for lunch in Idaho Falls. I do have to admit tonight was a tad bit rough for the Maulers out there but they fought through it like the warriors they are.

I thought that the defenseman were working overtime tonight but they kept up with the flow of the game very nicely and didn't miss a beat. The forwards were great at working together as a single unit, keeping the puck in motion, and a continuous rush of offensive force. All of the boys made the Mustangs work for the puck and put up a fight through all 60 minutes. The entire squad was great out there but there is one person in particular I would like to focus on. I don't usually single out people unless they played a phenomenal game or really stood up and showed great talent. Last night that definitely was veteran Cody Janzen. I swear in the time between the Spartans series and now these three games, something has clicked inside our seasoned tendy. He stepped up to the plate, faced the challenge and showed why he is put in the cage more than the rookies are. His skills have matured exponentially and he is more focused on the shifts than ever. There is definitely change in Janzen but for the better. He was right there every time a puck came within five feet of the crease and was quick to stop it right then and there. In my opinion I think the goaltending department needs more recognition! These guys get beaten, concussed, and bruised and still willingly go in the net every game. Huge round of applause for Janzen, Gronborg, and Mcdaniel you guys are some of the biggest beautys out there!

The homegrown captain Anders Nord drew first blood during the first 20 minutes of play. He had assists from veteran Corey Schafer and rookie Max Rebholz. He netted the first goal of the game 9:28. Then at 19:11, defenseman Tyler Zandhuisen picked up some speed for the Maulers when he lit the lamp on a power play with help from Swedish defenseman Henrik Ekestahl. This was the last goal of the period.

Ogden dominated the second period by scoring 4 goals in about 4 minutes. Mustangs forward #24 Sean Haltam put Ogden on the board at 6:17 with assists from goalie Tyler Fallica and forward #12 Dusty Watt. Watt notched his own goal 50 seconds later on a power play with apples from Swedish defenseman George Babos and forward #14 Seth Giles. The Swedes kept things running when Taberg native Simon Teodorsson scored at 9:26. Assists were given to assistant captain Schuyler Seyfert and defenseman #5 Cam Russell. Exactly 1 minute later, Seth Giles recorded a point of his own. Giles had assists from Dusty Watt and Sean Haltam. To end the period, the last Maulers goal of the game was scored by none other than the sniper from Spokane rookie Erich Jaeger. He has an assist from Joey Porco at 14:25.

At 5:56, Cam Russell scored on a power play with the assistance of forward #19 Jimmy Peplinski and forward #29 Brody Decker. The last goal of the game was netted by Sean Haltam. His goal at 19:04 was assisted by Charlie Reed and Schuyler Seyfert.

I was able to talk with goaltender Cody Janzen briefly after the game. The first question I asked him was if he has changed anything to be more of a threat to offensive teams and he replied, "I just try and use my maturity to stay calm when things don't go the way we want them to." I then asked how he was going to incorporate his experience last night for the series this weekend and he responded, "We now see that we can't take shifts off because they will hurt us and we have to keep the energy up for 60 full." Thank you Cody! The Maulers play again the 7th at 7:30 pm MST and lastly on the 8th at 11 am MST before heading home to prepare for the Idaho Jr Steelheads. Good luck boys and hit 'em hard!

Warm ups in Ogden via my laptop

Statistics:

PENALTIES:

Period 1:
Ogden Mustangs - Tommy Pokorney (Butt-Ending) 2 Minutes, 16:28
Ogden Mustangs - Tommy Pokorney (Unsportsmanlike Conduct) (Misconduct) 10 Minutes, 16:28
Ogden Mustangs - Simon Teodorsson (Tripping) 2 Minutes, 18:11
Period 2:
Missoula Maulers - Tyler Zandhuisen (Head Contact) 2 Minutes, 4:58
Missoula Maulers - Connor McNally (Head Contact) 2 Minutes, 17:19
Period 3:
Missoula Maulers - Erich Jaeger (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 4:20
Missoula Maulers - Joey Porco (Hooking) 2 Minutes, 7:42
Ogden Mustangs - Jon Mencer (Roughing) (Double Minor) 4 Minutes, 8:17
Missoula Maulers - Corey Schafer (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 8:17
Ogden Mustangs - Dusty Watt (Cross Checking) 2 Minutes 18:21

SHOTS ON GOAL:

Missoula Maulers - 37 total
Ogden Mustangs - 40 total

POWER PLAYS:

Missoula Maulers - 1 for 4
Ogden Mustangs - 2 for 4

GOALTENDERS:

#31 Cody Janzen for Missoula Maulers: 60 Minutes played, 48 shots on goal 42 saves

#35 Tyler Fallica for Ogden Mustangs: 60 Minutes played, 37 shots on goal 34 saves

Silky Mitts and Physical Plays Aid in Maulers Comeback

With the Outdoor Classic over, the Spartans vs. Maulers series has come to end but with the usual Missoula fashion; with a bang. Even though the final was 4-3 in favor of Southern Oregon, the boys fought back with an extreme force, and as I predicted, dropped the gloves at the end of the third. Many of the guys on the team took hold of the reins and made plays happen while executing them on key. As suspected Anders Nord was the main leader for the squad but many of the rookies also proved themselves. They stood up for the team as well as their selves and made a conscious effort to play as one team with one name. With tempers flying, the Maulers seemed to remain quite stable throughout the entire 3 periods but with a little edge of their own. Some of the best snipers on the team stepped out of the shadows such as Anders Nord and Tanner Todd and lifted the team to gain a few more points to head home with. I have to give huge props to the whole team for the performance this weekend because even though they didn't take home a win they put up an ENORMOUS fight and with each game their persevation and determination levels rose. Before any one might be down because of the statistics look at what the boys accomplished, how they grew, and give them a round of applause. They are fighters until the very end.

Your Maulers struck first blood by scoring 2 minutes and 13 seconds into the first period. Mason Jones lit the lamp with a little help from veteran forward Matt Chamberlain. Southern Oregon was quick to respond though with an unassisted and short handed goal from Ben Henry. The last goal of the period was recorded at 7:56.

The Henry brothers dominated the entire second period. Jason scored his goal at 8:34. Apples were given to Austin Sartorius and Ging Martin. 2 minutes and 23 seconds later, Ben scored his second goal of the game by slipping one past Mcdaniel at 10:57. He had help from his brother Jason and Donnie Nagle IV. This was the last biscuit to go into the net of the 2nd period.

Tanner Todd put one up for the Maulers as he beat Ponikelsky unassisted at 4:47. Justus Saldeen, point leader throughout the weekend, put a biscuit into Mcdaniel's net with help from Austin Sartorius and Ben Henry 12 minutes and 55 seconds after the start of the period. The last goal of the game was scored by Maulers' captain Anders Nord. Assists were given to Swedish defenseman Henrik Ekestahl and Matt Chamberlain. The lamp was lit for the last time at 17:02.

For now, the team is on the bus headed back up to Missoula as we know it. There will be no games played until December 6th-8th when the boys head down to face off against the Ogden Mustangs on their home turf. Until then the boys will spend time with their family, billet families, and friends over a Thanksgiving/Holiday break. Rest up boys and get ready to fight even more aggressive than ever before. Here is a pre-Happy Thanksgiving to everyone out there!

Maulers and Spartans during warm ups at Outdoor Classic (Via Spartans Hockey)

Statistics:

PENALTIES:

Period 1:

Southern Oregon Spartans - Austin Sartorius (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 6:09

Missoula Maulers - Tanner Todd (Facemask) 2 Minutes, 13:15

Southern Oregon Spartans - Justus Saldeen (Facemask) 2 Minutes, 13:53

Period 2:
Missoula Maulers - Austin Auzzinnaro (Interference) 2 Minutes, 8:40

Missoula Maulers - Tyler Zandhuisen (Slashing) 2 Minutes, 16:20

Period 3:

Southern Oregon Spartans - Carl Edstrom (Holding) 2 Minutes, 3:26

Missoula Maulers - Josh Ingram-Rehm (Removing Opponents Helmet) (Game Ejection) 10 Minutes, 9:37

Missoula Maulers - Josh Ingram-Rehm (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 9:37

Southern Oregon Spartans -Mike Kowicki (Roughing) 2 Minutes, 9:37

Missoula Maulers - Tanner Todd (Fighting) (Major) 5 Minutes, 14:31

Southern Oregon Spartans - Donnie Nagle IV (Fighting) (Instigator) 2 Minutes, 14:31

Southern Oregon Spartans - Donnie Nagle IV (Fighting) (Major) 5 Minutes, 14:31

Southern Oregon Spartans - Donnie Nagle IV (Fighting) (Game Ejection) 10 Minutes, 14:31

Missoula Maulers - Nikita Sheptytskyy (Delay of Game) 2 Minutes, 17:15

Southern Oregon Spartans - Justus Saldeen (Delay of Game) 2 Minutes, 17:15

SHOTS ON GOAL:

Missoula Maulers - 35 total

Southern Oregon Spartans - 43 total

POWER PLAYS:

Missoula Maulers - 1 for 4

Southern Oregon Spartans - 0 for 3

GOALTENDERS:

#30 Michael Mcdaniel for Missoula Maulers: 59:28 Minutes played, 43 shots on goal 39 saves

#30 Ian Dvorak for Southern Oregon Spartans: 40 Minutes played, 24 shots on goal 23 saves

#39 Jiri Ponikelsky for Southern Oregon Spartans: 20 Minutes played, 11 shots on goal 9 saves

Happy Thanksgiving from Biscuits and Breezers!