The Otters counted on a second period shot barrage to pace them to a 3-2 win Friday night at the Summit Centre over Oakville.
After falling behind 1-0, Bronson Kovacs scored his first of the season just after the three minute mark of the second period to tie the game at 1. It wasnt til the 17:32 mark of the second that Kovacs defensive partner, Dean Wilmott put one by Blades starter Daniel Savelli to give the Otters the lead for good.
Daniel Clairmont scored a great goal at 2:23 of the 3rd when he intercepted the puck at his own blueline, split through two Oakville defenders and tucked the puck in behind Savelli for a 3-1 lead.
Braden Russell notched the Blades second of the night at 7:38 of the final frame but Thomas Shelley shut the door the rest of the way, along with solid defensive play. Huntsville travels to Burlington to face the Cougars Saturday night with next home action Friday September 24 hosting the Newmarket Hurricanes with a 7:30 puck drop.
Friday, September 17, 2010
NEW AUDIO! Interview with Beau Orser
Beau Orser talks about his style of play and how the Huntsville organization is adapting to their new home, the Canada Summit Centre.
Monday, September 13, 2010
NEW VIDEO! John recaps the Otters first weekend of play
John chats with TV Cogeco's Scott Acton about the Otters first weekend of the regular season:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYMSKZ_oW2c
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYMSKZ_oW2c
Sunday, September 12, 2010
NEW AUDIO! Listen to recap to today's win over Milton
Five different scorers led the Otters to their first win of the regular season this afternoon 5-1 over Milton.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Otters take Spirit to a shootout on opening night
More than 600 fans ushered in a new era of Huntsville Otters hockey Friday night as the Otters and the Stoufville Spirit opened the new Canada Summit Centre. The Spirit took it by a final of 6-5 in a shootout.
The lead changed hands several times. The Otters had a 2-1 lead after the first, but allowed the Spirit to score four unanswered goals in the second to give the visitors a 4-3 lead after 40 minutes.
The Otters erased that defecit in the third tying the game at 5, before overtime solved nothing, requiring the showdown round.
Phil Moreau had a a pair of goals and an assist, while Beau Orser had a two goals.
Next action for the Otters is Sunday afternoon in Milton for a 3:30 faceoff. The next home action for the Otters is next Friday September 17 when they play host to the Oakville Blades beginning at 7:30.
The lead changed hands several times. The Otters had a 2-1 lead after the first, but allowed the Spirit to score four unanswered goals in the second to give the visitors a 4-3 lead after 40 minutes.
The Otters erased that defecit in the third tying the game at 5, before overtime solved nothing, requiring the showdown round.
Phil Moreau had a a pair of goals and an assist, while Beau Orser had a two goals.
Next action for the Otters is Sunday afternoon in Milton for a 3:30 faceoff. The next home action for the Otters is next Friday September 17 when they play host to the Oakville Blades beginning at 7:30.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Link to tonight's season opener vs Stoufv9lle
Go to the link below to hear tonight's season opener between the Otters and the Stoufville Spirit with pre game show at 7:20pm
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/otters-spirit-september-10
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/otters-spirit-september-10
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Interview with Brian O'Leary
We spoke with Otters Head Coach and GM Brian O'Leary prior to the start of the regular season this Friday. He says discipline will be the key to Huntsville's success this season, despite being assured of a spot in this year's Dudley Hewitt Cup.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Otters video now available online
Cut and paste the link below to go to Wednesday's story on the Otters at TV Cogeco's website:
http://www.tvcogeco.com/huntsville-gravenhurst/gallerie/tvcogeco-news/255-local-news
http://www.tvcogeco.com/huntsville-gravenhurst/gallerie/tvcogeco-news/255-local-news
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
New Otter player interviews!
Listen to two new interviews! First new Otters defenceman Bronson Kovacs talks about why he came to play in Huntsville after playing all of his minor and Junior A hockey in the Soo:
the second with Otters captain Dane Horvat and a preview of the upcoming season:
the second with Otters captain Dane Horvat and a preview of the upcoming season:
Otters win 2010 Cottage Cup
Huntsville finished up the 2010 Cottage Cup by winning the championship game 6-3 over the Hamilton Red Wings.
Mark Scheifele and Daniel Clairmont had a pair of goals to lead the Otters, who finished the tournament undefeated.
Trailing 3-2 late in the second, Scheifele scored his second of the game on a nice outlet pass from defenceman Andrew Cooke. Scheifele split the Red Wing defence and tucked the puck in behind netminder Dan Fieldings to tie the game at 3. But the backbreaker for Hamilton came on a buzzer beater goal from Bronson Kovacs. With six seconds remaining in the period, the Otters rushed up the ice, gained the Red Wing zone and fired a shot which was saved by Fieldings. But he gave up a long rebound, which Kovacs pounced on and one timed from the high slot and into the back of the net for a 4-3 lead.
Thomas Shelley played the entire game in goal and got the win. The win comes after losing the cup to the Couchching Terriers last August.
The Otters punched their ticket to the final game after winning round robin contests against Georgetown (2-0), Stoufville (5-3) and Hamilton (7-2).
A reminder the Otters kick off the regular season at the Canada Summit Centre hosting the Stoufville Spirit Friday September 10 beginning at 7:30.
Huntsville will also host the Dudley-Hewitt Cup at the Canada Summit Centre from April 18-22.
Mark Scheifele and Daniel Clairmont had a pair of goals to lead the Otters, who finished the tournament undefeated.
Trailing 3-2 late in the second, Scheifele scored his second of the game on a nice outlet pass from defenceman Andrew Cooke. Scheifele split the Red Wing defence and tucked the puck in behind netminder Dan Fieldings to tie the game at 3. But the backbreaker for Hamilton came on a buzzer beater goal from Bronson Kovacs. With six seconds remaining in the period, the Otters rushed up the ice, gained the Red Wing zone and fired a shot which was saved by Fieldings. But he gave up a long rebound, which Kovacs pounced on and one timed from the high slot and into the back of the net for a 4-3 lead.
Thomas Shelley played the entire game in goal and got the win. The win comes after losing the cup to the Couchching Terriers last August.
The Otters punched their ticket to the final game after winning round robin contests against Georgetown (2-0), Stoufville (5-3) and Hamilton (7-2).
A reminder the Otters kick off the regular season at the Canada Summit Centre hosting the Stoufville Spirit Friday September 10 beginning at 7:30.
Huntsville will also host the Dudley-Hewitt Cup at the Canada Summit Centre from April 18-22.
Monday, July 5, 2010
FORMER TERRIER CLAIRMONT SIGNS WITH OTTERS
Huntsville Otters Head Coach and General Manager Brian O’Leary has announced the signing of former Couchiching Terrier forward DANIEL CLAIRMONT for the upcoming season.
“Daniel’s proven himself to be a solid playmaker in his two years in the league,” said O’Leary. “His point production doubled from his rookie to sophomore season, and he’s got great vision for the entire ice.”
In 49 regular season games last year, the Bracebridge native tallied 28 points (10g 18a).
“It’s very gratifying to be able to continue my junior career so close to home,” said Clairmont, who picked up a goal and assist in four playoff games last spring.
Clairmont became available after the Terriers franchise was decommissioned following the 2009/10 OJAHL season.
The Huntsville Otters play host to the Dudley Hewitt Cup, taking place from April 18-23, 2011 at the new Canada Summit Centre.
“Daniel’s proven himself to be a solid playmaker in his two years in the league,” said O’Leary. “His point production doubled from his rookie to sophomore season, and he’s got great vision for the entire ice.”
In 49 regular season games last year, the Bracebridge native tallied 28 points (10g 18a).
“It’s very gratifying to be able to continue my junior career so close to home,” said Clairmont, who picked up a goal and assist in four playoff games last spring.
Clairmont became available after the Terriers franchise was decommissioned following the 2009/10 OJAHL season.
The Huntsville Otters play host to the Dudley Hewitt Cup, taking place from April 18-23, 2011 at the new Canada Summit Centre.
Monday, June 28, 2010
MOREAU RE-SIGNS WITH OTTERS
Huntsville Otters Head Coach and General Manager Brian O’Leary has announced the re-signing of forward PHIL MOREAU for the upcoming 2010/11 OJAHL season.
“Phil has always been counted on to provide that big goal or play when we need it,” said O’Leary. “His leadership skills will also help the younger players in both the dressing room and on the ice.”
The Barrie, Ont. native was a point a game player for the Otters last season, tallying 44 points (17g, 27a) in 44 games.
“We have an opportunity to do something in a special season,” added Moreau, referring to the Otters hosting of the Dudley Hewitt Cup next April. “In my overage year, I know that not only will our coaches and fans expect more out of players such as myself, but us veterans know we have to step up our game, and lead by example.”
In three seasons, Moreau has played 138 games as an Otter, and has tallied 101 points, including 46 goals and 55 assists.
The Huntsville Otters play host to the Dudley Hewitt Cup, taking place from April 18-23, 2011 at the new Canada Summit Centre.
“Phil has always been counted on to provide that big goal or play when we need it,” said O’Leary. “His leadership skills will also help the younger players in both the dressing room and on the ice.”
The Barrie, Ont. native was a point a game player for the Otters last season, tallying 44 points (17g, 27a) in 44 games.
“We have an opportunity to do something in a special season,” added Moreau, referring to the Otters hosting of the Dudley Hewitt Cup next April. “In my overage year, I know that not only will our coaches and fans expect more out of players such as myself, but us veterans know we have to step up our game, and lead by example.”
In three seasons, Moreau has played 138 games as an Otter, and has tallied 101 points, including 46 goals and 55 assists.
The Huntsville Otters play host to the Dudley Hewitt Cup, taking place from April 18-23, 2011 at the new Canada Summit Centre.
CAPTAIN RE-SIGNS WITH OTTERS
Huntsville Otters Head Coach and General Manager Brian O’Leary has announced the signing of DANE HORVAT for the 2010-11 OJAHL season.
The Milton native returns to the Otters in his overage year and will captain the team for the second straight season.
“Dane’s a leader and competitor in every sense of the word,” said O’Leary. “It’s those two qualities we are going to be relying on to help lead the way during the regular season and definitely in our preparations as we host the Dudley Hewitt Cup next April.”
Horvat was the team’s leading scorer in the 2009-10 season, tallying 66 points (29G 37 A) in 55 games. Horvat is also recognized for bringing his teammates together for many community events, including visits to schools and hospitals.
“Coming back to Huntsville to finish my junior hockey career is special for two reasons. Playing in the new Summit Centre means playing in the best junior A facility in Ontario, but more importantly, it’s an opportunity to play with a special group of guys who have the talent to take the Otters all the way,” added Horvat.
In 90 career regular season games with the Otters, Horvat has averaged just under a point a game pace, tallying 35 goals and 54 assists for 89 points.
The Huntsville Otters will host the 2011 Dudley Hewitt Cup at the new Summit Centre from April 18-23, 2011.
The Milton native returns to the Otters in his overage year and will captain the team for the second straight season.
“Dane’s a leader and competitor in every sense of the word,” said O’Leary. “It’s those two qualities we are going to be relying on to help lead the way during the regular season and definitely in our preparations as we host the Dudley Hewitt Cup next April.”
Horvat was the team’s leading scorer in the 2009-10 season, tallying 66 points (29G 37 A) in 55 games. Horvat is also recognized for bringing his teammates together for many community events, including visits to schools and hospitals.
“Coming back to Huntsville to finish my junior hockey career is special for two reasons. Playing in the new Summit Centre means playing in the best junior A facility in Ontario, but more importantly, it’s an opportunity to play with a special group of guys who have the talent to take the Otters all the way,” added Horvat.
In 90 career regular season games with the Otters, Horvat has averaged just under a point a game pace, tallying 35 goals and 54 assists for 89 points.
The Huntsville Otters will host the 2011 Dudley Hewitt Cup at the new Summit Centre from April 18-23, 2011.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
OTTERS SIGN ALL STAR DEFENCMAN KOVACS
Huntsville Otters Head Coach and GM Brian O’Leary has announced the acquisition of all star defenceman BRONSON KOVACS from the Soo Thunderbirds of the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League in exchange for cash considerations.
The 20-year old Kovacs had 44 points and 84 penalty minutes in 49 regular season games with the Thunderbirds last season. Kovacs was also named the NOJHL’s best defenceman, its Scholastic Player of the Year, as well as making second team all star.
“Bronson’s hard-hitting style of play, combined with just the right amount of offensive output, is the type of blueliner needed not only for the upcoming season, but as we build to host the Dudley Hewitt Cup,” said O’Leary. “He’s going to be an anchor on defense for us, there’s no question.”
Kovacs’ experience will be valuable, as the Sault Ste. Marie Ontario native will make his second straight appearance in the Dudley Hewitt Cup in as many seasons. He was part of the Thunderbirds team that hosted this past year’s tournament.
The Otters are gearing up to host the 2011 Dudley Hewitt Cup beginning April 18 culminating with the championship game April 23.
The 20-year old Kovacs had 44 points and 84 penalty minutes in 49 regular season games with the Thunderbirds last season. Kovacs was also named the NOJHL’s best defenceman, its Scholastic Player of the Year, as well as making second team all star.
“Bronson’s hard-hitting style of play, combined with just the right amount of offensive output, is the type of blueliner needed not only for the upcoming season, but as we build to host the Dudley Hewitt Cup,” said O’Leary. “He’s going to be an anchor on defense for us, there’s no question.”
Kovacs’ experience will be valuable, as the Sault Ste. Marie Ontario native will make his second straight appearance in the Dudley Hewitt Cup in as many seasons. He was part of the Thunderbirds team that hosted this past year’s tournament.
The Otters are gearing up to host the 2011 Dudley Hewitt Cup beginning April 18 culminating with the championship game April 23.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Otters get the Dudley Hewitt Cup!
The 2011 Dudley Hewitt Cup has been awarded to the Huntsville Otters.
The announcement was made Monday at centre ice at the new Canada
Summit Centre by Mayor Claude Doughty.
Along with host Otters, the champions from the Ontario Junior Hockey
League, the Superior International Junior Hockey League and the
Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League will all take part in the
weeklong tournmanet beginning Tuesday April 19. Semi finals will be
played Friday April 22 with the championship game Saturday April 23.
In making the winning bid, the selection commitee panel, made up of
representatives from the Canadian Junior Hockey Leauge the Ontario
Hockey Federation, the Ontario Hockey Association and the Ontario
Junior Hockey League, concluded Huntsville had everything a host
community required, including accommodation, facilities and volunteer
base.
All games will be played on the new olympic sized Summit Centre ice surface.
The announcement was made Monday at centre ice at the new Canada
Summit Centre by Mayor Claude Doughty.
Along with host Otters, the champions from the Ontario Junior Hockey
League, the Superior International Junior Hockey League and the
Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League will all take part in the
weeklong tournmanet beginning Tuesday April 19. Semi finals will be
played Friday April 22 with the championship game Saturday April 23.
In making the winning bid, the selection commitee panel, made up of
representatives from the Canadian Junior Hockey Leauge the Ontario
Hockey Federation, the Ontario Hockey Association and the Ontario
Junior Hockey League, concluded Huntsville had everything a host
community required, including accommodation, facilities and volunteer
base.
All games will be played on the new olympic sized Summit Centre ice surface.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Otters Perfect in Shutout over Buffalo
It couldnt have been scripted better. The last game ever for the Huntsville Otters in the Jack Bionda Arena saw Phil Moreau score a natural hat trick and Thomas Shelley earn the shutout, as the Otters blanked the Buffalo Jr. Sabres 6-0.
Graham Yeo and Dylan Sneath gave the Otters a 2-0 lead, before the game was two and a half minutes old. The goals, scored 12 seconds apart, foreshadowed the type of offensive night it would be for the home side.
Dane Horvat then scored a powerplay marker to make it 3-0, followed up by Moreau's first of three just 2:06 later to give Huntsville a 4-0 after 1.
The rest of the offence belonged to Moreau. He notched his second of the game just 20 seconds into the second period to make it 5-0 then wrapped up his natural hat trick at 12:55, tipping a Kylian Kirkwood point shot past netminder Paul Berafato for a 6-0 lead.
A number of Otters tallied two point nights in the win: Braiden Burnett, Adam Ritchie, Kylian Kirkwood, Jordan Forfar, and Graham Yeo, while Horvat ended the night with three assists.
Shelley made 26 saves in the Otters net for the shutout.
Huntsville wraps up the regular season Sunday in Aurora, with the face off set for 2:30pm.
Graham Yeo and Dylan Sneath gave the Otters a 2-0 lead, before the game was two and a half minutes old. The goals, scored 12 seconds apart, foreshadowed the type of offensive night it would be for the home side.
Dane Horvat then scored a powerplay marker to make it 3-0, followed up by Moreau's first of three just 2:06 later to give Huntsville a 4-0 after 1.
The rest of the offence belonged to Moreau. He notched his second of the game just 20 seconds into the second period to make it 5-0 then wrapped up his natural hat trick at 12:55, tipping a Kylian Kirkwood point shot past netminder Paul Berafato for a 6-0 lead.
A number of Otters tallied two point nights in the win: Braiden Burnett, Adam Ritchie, Kylian Kirkwood, Jordan Forfar, and Graham Yeo, while Horvat ended the night with three assists.
Shelley made 26 saves in the Otters net for the shutout.
Huntsville wraps up the regular season Sunday in Aurora, with the face off set for 2:30pm.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Otters Blades game live tonight from Oakville
Ok - so you're going to get your fill of Olympics over the next two weeks - but if you need that hockey fix, join us tonight from Oakville as we broadcast the Otters in Oakville to take on the Blades.
The pregame show beings at 7:20 at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/oters-blades-february-13
The pregame show beings at 7:20 at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/oters-blades-february-13
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Otters host Vaughan Tonight
Huntsville looks to make it two wins in a row in a rescheduled match with the Vaughan Vipers. Listen to tonight's game here:
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/otters-vipers-february-9
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/otters-vipers-february-9
Monday, February 8, 2010
Otters take out Collingwood 8-2
Adam Ritchie's natural hat trick in the second period helped propel the Otters past the Collingwood Blues 8-2 at the Jack Bionda.
Huntsville took a commanding 3-0 lead after one on goals by Zach Robinson, Dane Horvat and Brad Langford.
Ritchie's three straight markers came after Collingwood cut the lead to 3-1 early in the second. His two even strength and one powerplay goal made it 6-1, before Jordan Forfar added one at the end of the second to make it 7-1 Otters after two periods.
Dane Horvat put an easy tap in by Blues starter Colin Elder at the 32 second mark of the third to round out the Hunstville scoring.
Charlie Millen got the start and went all the way, playing a strong game and making 20 saves for the win.
The Otters host Vaughan in a makeup game Tuesday night at the Jack. Faceoff is 7:30.
Huntsville took a commanding 3-0 lead after one on goals by Zach Robinson, Dane Horvat and Brad Langford.
Ritchie's three straight markers came after Collingwood cut the lead to 3-1 early in the second. His two even strength and one powerplay goal made it 6-1, before Jordan Forfar added one at the end of the second to make it 7-1 Otters after two periods.
Dane Horvat put an easy tap in by Blues starter Colin Elder at the 32 second mark of the third to round out the Hunstville scoring.
Charlie Millen got the start and went all the way, playing a strong game and making 20 saves for the win.
The Otters host Vaughan in a makeup game Tuesday night at the Jack. Faceoff is 7:30.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Cameron Brace Watch
Time to update the Cameron Brace watch...after registering two assists in his first game Friday with the Owen Sound Attack, to help them to a come from behind 5-3 victory over Sarnia, Brace was held off the scoresheet in Plymouth last night, as the Attack fell 5-1....The Otters host Tyler Crawford and the Collingwood Blues this afternoon at the Jack Bionda at 3pm...the pregame show begins at 2:45 at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/collingwood-vs-otters-february-7
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Otters lose OT Thriller to Georgetown
The Otters battled and stayed with the Raiders all game long, but in the end an overtime goal by Evan Rodriguez was the difference to give Georgetown the 3-2 victory.
Rodriguez picked up a loose puck at centre, stickhandled his way around two Otter defenders, then deked Thomas Shelley to put home the winning goal.
All this after Dane Horvat tied the game send it to OT and thrilling the fans at the Jack Bionda by tucking a goalmouth shot past Raiders starter Tony Copobianco. With 24 seconds left in regulation, Tyler McGee won the draw cleanly, getting it back to the point. Kylian Kirkwood’s slapshot was stopped by Copobianco, but Horvat was there to put it home.
Adam Ritchie scored the other Huntsville goal.
The Otters next game is at home to Collingwood Sunday for a 3pm faceoff.
Rodriguez picked up a loose puck at centre, stickhandled his way around two Otter defenders, then deked Thomas Shelley to put home the winning goal.
All this after Dane Horvat tied the game send it to OT and thrilling the fans at the Jack Bionda by tucking a goalmouth shot past Raiders starter Tony Copobianco. With 24 seconds left in regulation, Tyler McGee won the draw cleanly, getting it back to the point. Kylian Kirkwood’s slapshot was stopped by Copobianco, but Horvat was there to put it home.
Adam Ritchie scored the other Huntsville goal.
The Otters next game is at home to Collingwood Sunday for a 3pm faceoff.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Brace to get taste of OHL
Cameron Brace will suceed in all facets of life, let alone hockey. This wonderfully talented young man, who has turned heads all around the OJAHL with his speed and nose for the net all season long, was called up to the OHL's Owen Sound Attack yesterday, and signed to a 10 game tryout.
Surely the connection former Attack coach and current Otters bench boss Brian O'Leary has with Owen Sound couldnt have hurt. But those connections didnt pave the way in which the youngster's talents already have for him.
With the playoff race close to being finalized in 2009/2010, and the Otters all but not going to post season, this is the right move for Brace.
It allows him to be exposed to a level of competition just a step up from this one. And while Brace's main challenge may be how his smallish frame handles the wear and tear of an Ontario Hockey League contest, it's something he will more than make up for in talent, speed, and his ability to communicate with his new teammates.
Good luck Cameronm and congratulations.
Surely the connection former Attack coach and current Otters bench boss Brian O'Leary has with Owen Sound couldnt have hurt. But those connections didnt pave the way in which the youngster's talents already have for him.
With the playoff race close to being finalized in 2009/2010, and the Otters all but not going to post season, this is the right move for Brace.
It allows him to be exposed to a level of competition just a step up from this one. And while Brace's main challenge may be how his smallish frame handles the wear and tear of an Ontario Hockey League contest, it's something he will more than make up for in talent, speed, and his ability to communicate with his new teammates.
Good luck Cameronm and congratulations.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Could the Third Time Be the Charm?
In two previous meetings with the Kingston Voyageurs, tonight's opponents for the Otters at the Jack Bionda Arena, Huntsville has certainly made a game of it.
Losses are losses, but defeats by scores of 5-2 here in October and 6-4 at the Invista Centre November 19 certainly aren't the types of shellackings like the one Bramalea suffered at the hands of the Voyageurs last Friday by a 13-1 count.
So how do you stop a team with so much offensive firepower from winnig their seventh straight? Simple. You beat them at thier own game.
Take a look at the top three teams in this league - what do Kingston, Oakville and Georgetown all have in common?
Quick puck movement which usually leads to longer puck possession, which usually leads to greater QUALITY scoring chances.
Kingston has the best shots per game ratio in the league (total of 1,932 which averages out to 44 per game) BUT theyve also given up the second most shots against (total of 1,329 or just under 29 shots per game.) The Otters are fourth in both categories.
The Otters have been guity at times this season of either playing down to the level of their opponent, but on the positive side, they've also at times played up to the level of their opponent.
Case and point less than 24 hours ago...staying with the Terriers for two periods before deciding they were in charge in the 3rd, putting the 4th place overall team away 4-2.
if brian o'leary has video of last night's win, he should show it to his troops about 90 minutes prior to the opening faceoff.
Positive reinforcement - it's what makes winning contagious. Otters fans hope the players catch it.
Losses are losses, but defeats by scores of 5-2 here in October and 6-4 at the Invista Centre November 19 certainly aren't the types of shellackings like the one Bramalea suffered at the hands of the Voyageurs last Friday by a 13-1 count.
So how do you stop a team with so much offensive firepower from winnig their seventh straight? Simple. You beat them at thier own game.
Take a look at the top three teams in this league - what do Kingston, Oakville and Georgetown all have in common?
Quick puck movement which usually leads to longer puck possession, which usually leads to greater QUALITY scoring chances.
Kingston has the best shots per game ratio in the league (total of 1,932 which averages out to 44 per game) BUT theyve also given up the second most shots against (total of 1,329 or just under 29 shots per game.) The Otters are fourth in both categories.
The Otters have been guity at times this season of either playing down to the level of their opponent, but on the positive side, they've also at times played up to the level of their opponent.
Case and point less than 24 hours ago...staying with the Terriers for two periods before deciding they were in charge in the 3rd, putting the 4th place overall team away 4-2.
if brian o'leary has video of last night's win, he should show it to his troops about 90 minutes prior to the opening faceoff.
Positive reinforcement - it's what makes winning contagious. Otters fans hope the players catch it.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Huntsville doubles Couchching 4-2
Jordan Forfar had two goals and an assist , while Cameron Brace potted a marker and had two helpers as the Huntsville Otters beat the Couchching Terriers 4-2 tonight at the Rama MASK.
The Otters. who led 2-1 after one and were tied at 2 after 40 minutes of play, scored two unanswered goals in the final frame to seal the victory.
Dan Barnett also scored for Huntsville - his team leading 25th of the season.
Thomas Shelley turned aside just 17 Terrier shots in getting his 7th win since joining the Otters in a trade with the Brampton Capitals.
Huntsville returns home to host the league leading Kingston Voyageurs at the Jack Bionda tomorrow night at 7:30.
The Otters. who led 2-1 after one and were tied at 2 after 40 minutes of play, scored two unanswered goals in the final frame to seal the victory.
Dan Barnett also scored for Huntsville - his team leading 25th of the season.
Thomas Shelley turned aside just 17 Terrier shots in getting his 7th win since joining the Otters in a trade with the Brampton Capitals.
Huntsville returns home to host the league leading Kingston Voyageurs at the Jack Bionda tomorrow night at 7:30.
Matt Symth could join the century club tonight - at the expense of the Otters
When Couchching hosts Huntsville at the RAMA Mask tonight, Matt Smyth, arguably one of the most talented players to play Junior A hockey in several years, has the opportunity to break the 100 point plateau. He sits at 99 (50g, 49a) and could place tonights game on his resume - at the expense of the Otters.
Entering his 45th game of the season, Smyth, the former first round pick of the Brampton Batallion, has only been held off the scoresheet five times. The Otters know this stat very well.
You see they are one of the five teams (Villanova twice, Buffalo and Vaughan the others) who have held Smyth off the scoresheet. Huntsville performed that feat at home November 29th in a 6-2 win.
In a season that has had its share of ups and downs for the Otters, a win over the Terriers, plus blanking Mr. Smyth, would be a great morale booster heading back home to face the OJAHL's version of the 1976-77 Montreal Canadiens, otherwise known as the Kingston Voyageurs tomorrow night.
Entering his 45th game of the season, Smyth, the former first round pick of the Brampton Batallion, has only been held off the scoresheet five times. The Otters know this stat very well.
You see they are one of the five teams (Villanova twice, Buffalo and Vaughan the others) who have held Smyth off the scoresheet. Huntsville performed that feat at home November 29th in a 6-2 win.
In a season that has had its share of ups and downs for the Otters, a win over the Terriers, plus blanking Mr. Smyth, would be a great morale booster heading back home to face the OJAHL's version of the 1976-77 Montreal Canadiens, otherwise known as the Kingston Voyageurs tomorrow night.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
Hard One To Figure Out
Strange game. Couldnt make it out tonight, but judging by first hand accounts and from what I can glean on PS, the homeside kept themselves in this one for pretty much half the game -its the second half that it seemed to fall apart.
After the big 9-5 win over Aurora last Sunday, and holding the Golden Hawks scoreless tonight after 1, you would think the Otters would be able to take full advantage of another team ahead of them in the standings. After all, anyone can win on any given night.
Dane Horvats marker on the PP seemed to be the start and the spark they were looking for, taking the 1-0 lead.
But from there it went downhill.
Another game where Huntsville outshot their opponents. Has to be frustrating as much for the players as much if not more than the fans to get so many rubber at the opposition netminder, only to be thwarted time and time again.
The salt in the old wound came courtesy of the PP. Otters had 11 - count em 11 - other chances with the man advantage, but couldnt capitalize.
Next up, Oakville. Mother said there would be days, or times in the schedule, like this.
After the big 9-5 win over Aurora last Sunday, and holding the Golden Hawks scoreless tonight after 1, you would think the Otters would be able to take full advantage of another team ahead of them in the standings. After all, anyone can win on any given night.
Dane Horvats marker on the PP seemed to be the start and the spark they were looking for, taking the 1-0 lead.
But from there it went downhill.
Another game where Huntsville outshot their opponents. Has to be frustrating as much for the players as much if not more than the fans to get so many rubber at the opposition netminder, only to be thwarted time and time again.
The salt in the old wound came courtesy of the PP. Otters had 11 - count em 11 - other chances with the man advantage, but couldnt capitalize.
Next up, Oakville. Mother said there would be days, or times in the schedule, like this.
No broadcast tonight
Sorry folks - competing schedules results in no broadcast tonight vs. Trenton. Will be back Sunday afternoon when the Otters play host to Oakville. Pre-game begins at 2:30. Watch for game link tomorrow.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Just Win Baby - regardless of who you're playing
It's pretty much down to the short strokes for your hometown heroes. 12 games left in the regular season, and 12 points back of the final playoff spot heading into Friday's tilt with Trenton at the Jack.
Being told to get out there and support your Otters is a bit like reminding you to take your significant other out on your anniversary - you gotta do it.
The mandatory stuff out of the way, the trick for Huntsville the next four games is to not only win, but do it all against top five teams in the Division of 15: Trenton Friday, Oakville Sunday, Couchching next Thursday at Rama then back home next Friday night against (cue horror movie music) Kingston!
Now before you cringe, consider the following two very important points:
-three of those four tilts take place at home. This is where fan supoort is key folks. Get out there, holler, scream, and "Let's Go Otters" til you have not a whisper left in your vocal chords. Nothing like a raucous Jack Bionda to get the Otters pumped (remember last year's semi final vs Kingston?)
-the "taking them too lightly" factor. Theres a VERY real possibility that four teams who pretty much have made the playoffs could take the Otters lightly - and don't think Brian O'Leary and gang don't think this. Reverse psychology is a powerful thing.
Tommorrow, we post some numbers for you to break down the matchups. No broadcast tomorrow night vs. Trenton, but we're back on the air Sunday afternoon when the Blades come to visit. Watch for the link on huntsvilleotters.com and via Twitter, (www.twitter.com/Mediaman2010)
Being told to get out there and support your Otters is a bit like reminding you to take your significant other out on your anniversary - you gotta do it.
The mandatory stuff out of the way, the trick for Huntsville the next four games is to not only win, but do it all against top five teams in the Division of 15: Trenton Friday, Oakville Sunday, Couchching next Thursday at Rama then back home next Friday night against (cue horror movie music) Kingston!
Now before you cringe, consider the following two very important points:
-three of those four tilts take place at home. This is where fan supoort is key folks. Get out there, holler, scream, and "Let's Go Otters" til you have not a whisper left in your vocal chords. Nothing like a raucous Jack Bionda to get the Otters pumped (remember last year's semi final vs Kingston?)
-the "taking them too lightly" factor. Theres a VERY real possibility that four teams who pretty much have made the playoffs could take the Otters lightly - and don't think Brian O'Leary and gang don't think this. Reverse psychology is a powerful thing.
Tommorrow, we post some numbers for you to break down the matchups. No broadcast tomorrow night vs. Trenton, but we're back on the air Sunday afternoon when the Blades come to visit. Watch for the link on huntsvilleotters.com and via Twitter, (www.twitter.com/Mediaman2010)
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Big win a big step in the right direction
All Brian O'Leary has wanted this 09/10 season has been to have his team play an entire 60 minutes.
Play an entire 60 minutes in order to produce a win, that is.
The Otters were headed in that direction Friday night at home to Villanova. They got the early 2-0 lead, but then tightened up, eventually losing a close battle 4-3.
So you wouldnt be the only person (I put myself in that category) who thought playing a team higher in the standings Sunday in the form of the Aurora Tigers would produce the same result.
After Tyler McGee showed his leadership with two first period goals, Huntsville showed grit and determiniation to make sure what happened 48 hours earlier, didnt happen Sunday afternoon.
Even though it was tight until early in the 3rd, credit your hometown heroes. They reached down and kicked it into another gear. And they got to that other gear, thanks to even, balanced scoring. Cameron Brace showed his nose for the net and dazzling speed in chipping in with a pair.
But the grinders - James Oliver and Zach Robinson in particular - demonstrated that as mainly fourth liners this year, they have the potential to become very solid, two way players at the OJAHL level, or beyond.
The playoffs are quite a way down the highway right now, and with 13 games remaining, the gravel road is quickly approaching. It may take a mammoth feat for the Otters to make post season, but with efforts like the 9-5 win over the Tigers Sunday, it could be a heck of a final month of the regular season, especially with 7 of the next 9 Otter games at the Jack Bionda.
Buckle up, and enjoy.
Play an entire 60 minutes in order to produce a win, that is.
The Otters were headed in that direction Friday night at home to Villanova. They got the early 2-0 lead, but then tightened up, eventually losing a close battle 4-3.
So you wouldnt be the only person (I put myself in that category) who thought playing a team higher in the standings Sunday in the form of the Aurora Tigers would produce the same result.
After Tyler McGee showed his leadership with two first period goals, Huntsville showed grit and determiniation to make sure what happened 48 hours earlier, didnt happen Sunday afternoon.
Even though it was tight until early in the 3rd, credit your hometown heroes. They reached down and kicked it into another gear. And they got to that other gear, thanks to even, balanced scoring. Cameron Brace showed his nose for the net and dazzling speed in chipping in with a pair.
But the grinders - James Oliver and Zach Robinson in particular - demonstrated that as mainly fourth liners this year, they have the potential to become very solid, two way players at the OJAHL level, or beyond.
The playoffs are quite a way down the highway right now, and with 13 games remaining, the gravel road is quickly approaching. It may take a mammoth feat for the Otters to make post season, but with efforts like the 9-5 win over the Tigers Sunday, it could be a heck of a final month of the regular season, especially with 7 of the next 9 Otter games at the Jack Bionda.
Buckle up, and enjoy.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Another close one
Tough loss tonight. Otters doing a good job of jumping out to the early lead, but a sub 500 team cant have momentary lapses - a full 60 minutes is what will always get you the win.
On the visitors side, Chris Lochner did his part - and then some. Not only scored the game winning goal, but blocked one of three Phil Moreau shots from the point when the Otters had the extra attacker on with under a minute to play.
Cameron Brace scored in a losing cause - pretty down low tic tac toe play to tie the game late in the second. Charlie Millen was strong and kept his rebounds to a minimum - the second goal he probably wished to have back was a weak backhander.
24 hours to rest for the home side...Aurora here Sunday afternoon. If Steve Mitchell comes, itll be another video game, regardless we'll have the pregame show beginning at 2:50. Check back for the link to the game either late Saturday or early Sunday morning,
On the visitors side, Chris Lochner did his part - and then some. Not only scored the game winning goal, but blocked one of three Phil Moreau shots from the point when the Otters had the extra attacker on with under a minute to play.
Cameron Brace scored in a losing cause - pretty down low tic tac toe play to tie the game late in the second. Charlie Millen was strong and kept his rebounds to a minimum - the second goal he probably wished to have back was a weak backhander.
24 hours to rest for the home side...Aurora here Sunday afternoon. If Steve Mitchell comes, itll be another video game, regardless we'll have the pregame show beginning at 2:50. Check back for the link to the game either late Saturday or early Sunday morning,
Otters host Villanova Knights tonight
Hey folks, it's the M man back after a, uh, somewhat extended holiday break. :)
We'll have tonight's Otters/Knights game from the Jack Bionda beginning with the pre-game show at 7:20.
Our good friend Joe Montesano from the Knights play by play crew will call the first and third, while I provide colour, and Ill call the game in the second.
Otters looking to rebound after two losses this week, including a heartbreaker in OT last night in Brampton to the Capitals.
The link to tonights game is:www.ustream.tv/villanova-hockey
The Knights are hot, currently on a three game winning streak, and led by their leding scorer Chris Lochner, with 65 points.
Huntsville captain Dane Horvat has been no slouch either, posting 10 points (5G 5A) in his last five games.
Ill be back for a post game summary after the final buzzer.
We'll have tonight's Otters/Knights game from the Jack Bionda beginning with the pre-game show at 7:20.
Our good friend Joe Montesano from the Knights play by play crew will call the first and third, while I provide colour, and Ill call the game in the second.
Otters looking to rebound after two losses this week, including a heartbreaker in OT last night in Brampton to the Capitals.
The link to tonights game is:www.ustream.tv/villanova-hockey
The Knights are hot, currently on a three game winning streak, and led by their leding scorer Chris Lochner, with 65 points.
Huntsville captain Dane Horvat has been no slouch either, posting 10 points (5G 5A) in his last five games.
Ill be back for a post game summary after the final buzzer.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Otters Blues audio cast today
Hey fans.
Hope everyone had a great holiday and all the best in 2010!
Here's the link to today's game at the Jack beginning with the pregame show at 2:50
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/blues-vs-otters-january-3
Hope everyone had a great holiday and all the best in 2010!
Here's the link to today's game at the Jack beginning with the pregame show at 2:50
http://www.ustream.tv/channel/blues-vs-otters-january-3
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