Big Showdowns all Won by Home Team and Hot Goaltenders

There were three ‘big’ showdowns on Friday night with the top six teams in the CHL all playing versus each other.  In the end, it was Bossier-Shreveport’s Ken Carroll, Texas’ Brett Jaeger and Mississippi’s Kevin Beech who stole the night and put on memorable performances.

Texas 4 vs. Colorado 1
At the NYTEX Sports Centre, Jaeger moved his record to 22-5-4 making 41 saves versus the Northern Conference leading Colorado Eagles.  The loss for the Eagles marked the first time this season they have lost back-to-back games and the win for the Brahmas, coupled with Odessa’s loss, moved them to the top spot in the Southern Conference.  Texas has won nine straight home games tying the CHL’s longest home winning streak of the season.

Mississippi 4 vs. Odessa 1
In Mississippi, Beech stopped 21 shots and won his 23rd game of the season.  Jeff Alcombrack had a Gordie Howe Hat Trick with a goal, assist and fight and Louis Dumont had a goal and an assist.  The win moves the ‘Kings into a second place tie in the Northeast Division.  The loss for Odessa put an end to their seven-game point streak.

Bossier-Shreveport 3 vs. Oklahoma City 2 (OT)
Finally, veteran Ken Carroll may have turned in the best performance stopping 46 shots in the Mudbugs 3-2 overtime win over Oklahoma City.  The win is the second straight this week for the ‘Bugs over the Blazers.  Dale Lupul scored two goals including the game winner in overtime.  The win moves the Mudbugs three points clear of both Oklahoma City and Mississippi in the NE Division.