Don’t panic just yet IceHog fans, it’s only two weeks into the season.
The Rockford IceHog’s opened up their 2012-2013 AHL campaign over the weekend with two road games just down Interstate 90 to take on the Chicago Wolves. It wasn’t exactly the kind of start the team wanted however, as they dropped the first two to the Wolves.
Saturday the Hogs and Wolves battled to a scoreless regulation, and headed to an overtime period. After the 20 minute scoreless overtime, Chicago wound up on top with a shootout victory.
With the shootout loss, Rockford did claim a point. Keeping them in fourth place in the AHL’s Midwest division ahead of Peoria.
Goalie Carter Hutton provided solid play for the Hogs but did struggle in the shootout. He gave up three goals in the four player shootout. But he’s teammates didn’t help him, as Rockford’s Brandon Pirri was the only Hog to tally a goal.
Sunday was a different story for the Hogs, as they looked to get back on track with another showdown at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, ILL.
Andrew Ebbett got the scoring started early for the Wolves as they generated a 1-0 lead at the end of a physical first period which saw four total penalties.
Coming out with a chip on their shoulder, Rockford committed three first period penalties. Jeremy Morin committed a roughing penalty 2 minutes in, and both Martin St. Pierre (high-sticking) and Andrew Shaw (tripping) made up the rest of the IceHog penalties.
The second period continued down a familiar path much like the first period did. The Wolves tallied the only goal to take a 2-0 lead on Rockford.
A wild third period ensued as both Rockford and Chicago netted three goals each. Chicago scored the first one to make it 3-0, but Rockford fought back with two straight goals to make it a 3-2 Chicago lead.
After another Chicago goal, Rockford added their final tally from Morin, his second of the game.
It’s too early to panic now Hog fans. With only two games under the belt, the season still looks promising if the Hogs can receive consistent play.
Rockford will have their home opener Saturday, October 20th at 7:05 at the BMO Harris Bank Center.
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