IHV Premier "A" 2008

Game 1 vs. Tigers

In a hard fought and extremely fast paced game, the Blackhawks went down to the Tigers 2 - 1 in their first game of the 2008 IHV Premier "A" season.

Starting with a very different line up to that of last season, the Blackhawks looked to gain some early momentum but were stifled by the fast skating Tigers and it was the latter that scored first with a shot from JONES (99) opening the scoring after five minutes in the 1^st period. The Hawks couldn't capitalise on a late power play opportunities and the period ended 1 - 0. 

The highlight of this game was the speed at which both teams executed and the precise passing that is not often seen so early in the season.  Both teams were able to generate scoring opportunities but could not convert.

The second period was similar to the first with speed being a factor.  With just six minutes gone, Doug STEVENSON (7) brought the Hawks level after some good work down low by new Blackhawk and No. 1 draft selection Andrew TAYLOR (68) and Travis WOODS (49).  The intensity continued through the period and with 6:24 left Jack McCOY (76) put the Hawks ahead with help from Michael BEATON (12) and Travis WOODS.  A late power play again put pressure on the Tigers D, but there was no change to the score, the Hawks up 2 - 1 at the break.

The last period again was a showcase of speed and passing.  The Hawks keen to maintain intensity but a stream of penalties upset the momentum.  When the Tigers scored on a power play through MATUS (7) just short of four minutes in, to level the scores, both teams applied pressure to get ahead.  With only 1:39 left on the clock, the Hawks failed to clear the defensive zone under pressure and the JONES scored his second of the night to put the Tigers up and secure the win.

Lineup: