3-31 BUGS AT WICHITA, GAME 1 (W, 3-2 in overtime. Bugs take 1-0 series lead)

COMPLETELY DIFFERENT BUGS TEAM IN SECOND
Their legs look like their back.
The Mudbugs had prime opportunity midway through the period with a 4-on-3 power play advantage. Laplante made some great stops – without rebounds – during the 4-on-3, but Mudbugs defenseman Dale Lupul made it 2-1 with an absolute cannon from just inside the blue line after the advantage had moved to 5-on-4 for Bossier-Shreveport.
Bossier-Shreveport is outshooting Wichita 11-4 in the second period.
TIME: 8:24 p.m.

STILL 2-0, BUT BUGS ARE ON THEIR HEELS
Sebastein Laplante has given up zero rebounds in the first period, but every shot the Thunder take seems to ricochet out into the slot.
This game could get very ugly if this continues.
TIME: 7:32 p.m.

WICHITA ROCKING AND ROLLING ALREADY
Kris Wiebe scroed two goals in the first seven minutes of the first period and are all over the Mudbugs.
I mentioned on the air with Steve Mears that Mudbugs goaltender David Cacciola needed a strong start to this series because Ken Carroll is not available.
It's not all his fault by any means. But the Bugs need to clear out some rebounds.
TIME: 7:19 p.m.

Here we are ... it's playoff time!

3/24 vs. MEMPHIS

HATTY FOR MANNING
Blair Manning scored another power-play goal to collect the hat trick. The Bugs lead 4-2.
TIME: 8:19 p.m.

MANNING COLLECTS ANOTHER
Blair Manning scored a power-play goal during the first minute of the second period to give the Mudbugs a 3-2 lead.
TIME: 7:58 p.m.

THURSDAY'S OFFEREING MUCH MORE EXCITING
Four goals in the first period and a little rough stuff has given the fans at the CenturyTel Center much to get excited about.
TIME: 7:57 p.m.

2 GOALS, 18 SECONDS
Tie game.
Blair Manning, Brett Smith and Scott Sheppard figured in on the scoring for both goals.
Manning goal and assist
Sheppard goal and assist.
Smith two assists.
TIME: 7:27 p.m.

2-0 MEMPHIS
Just after the second Memphis power play ended, the RiverKings scored to make it 2-0.
TIME: 7:20 p.m.

MEMPHIS SCORES PP GOAL TO TAKE LEAD
Brad Wanchulak scores his seventh goal in 12 games for Memphis as the RiverKings take a 1-0 lead early in the first period.
TIME: 7:10 p.m.

MUDBUGS WEARING SPECIAL RED SWEATERS
As tradition would have it, the Mudbugs are wearing their American Diabetes Association jersey which will be auctioned off after the game tonight.
TIME: 7:02 p.m.

BASILE TAKES PREGAME SKATE; CARROLL ON BENCH TONIGHT
Although he won't play tonight, Mudbugs defenseman Jason Basile took the pregame skate tonight before the Memphis game. Ken Carroll is back in uniform tonight, but will backup David Cacciola, who gets his 13th straight start.
TIME: 6:49 p.m.

CACCIOLA VS. DILORENZO
In net tonight.

THE SWAN SONG IS ABOUT TO BEGIN
But at least it's only the end of the regular season.

3/21 BUGS vs MEMPHIS (W 2-1 in shootout)

INITAL GAME STORY
http://shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060321/SPORTS0303/603220336/1001/SPORTS
Much more in the a.m. including audio from Muscutt and Brassard.

HE WHIFFS, HE SCORES ... ANYWAY
Chris Brassard whiffed on his shootout attempt, but faked the goalie -- and himself into a victory for the Mudbugs. Make sure you listen to his audio later tonight. He's one funny dude.
TIME: 10:21 p.m.

TRYING TO FIND SOMETHING TO WRITE ABOUT
Oh hey, there was an offside.
TIME: 8:58 p.m.

THIRD PERIOD UNDERWAY
Bugs must start a bit better in this frame. Tied 1-1.
TIME: 8:39 p.m.

SHEPPARD ROBBED BY DILORENZO
Scott Sheppard may want to try and shoot somewhere beside top-shelf glove side. He has been robbed yet again, this time by Michael Dilorenzo late in the second period after Sheppard undressed, redressed, then undressed Kevin Harris in the RiverKings' zone.
TIME: 8:16 p.m.

PERFECT TIMING
A sheet of glass has come loose. The only thing that could have made this game less interesting.
TIME: 8:14 p.m.

WAKE ME UP BEFORE I GO ...
Second period = zzzzzzzzzzzzzz
TIME: 8:12 p.m.

MAKE THAT 13-1 MEMPHIS IN SECOND PERIOD SHOTS
So much for my theory of Muscutt's bunch flying to start the second.
TIME: 8:05 p.m.

MEMPHIS HAS UPPER HAND EARLY AGAIN, BUT CACCIOLA STRONG
Memphis is up 7-1 in shots in the second period -- a start reminiscent of the first -- but the score is still tied at 1.
TIME: 8:01 p.m.

FIRST PERIOD TALE OF TWO HALVES
After a forgettable opening half, the Mudbugs turned on the switch in the final half of the first period to tie the game with Memphis.
The Mudbugs, once down 5-1 on the shot board, rolled up 16 shots to Memphis' 10. It's not excusable for Bossier-Shreveport to look so lost in the first few minutes, but it's quite admirable to wake up so suddenly. Undoubtedly, Scott Muscutt will demand the next 40 minutes resemble the past 10.
The game is very clean thus far, not a hint of any dirty stuff. The Mudbugs organization thanks the RiverKings.
TIME: 7:36 p.m.

FOUR SECONDS ... THAT'S ALL IT TOOK
For Bossier-Shreveport to turn the tables. Chad Spurr, Blair Manning, Jeremy Downs and Chris Brassard all touched the puck during a four-second span to begin the Mudbugs' third power play of the night. Brassard's slap shot got past Michael Dilorenzo's glove and the game is tied at 1.
TIME: 7:28 p.m.

DOWN FOR MAINTENANCE? HUH
What good is a live blog if it’s not live?
Anyhow, while Blogger was taking a coffee break, the Mudbugs have remembered there was a hockey game scheduled for tonight.
It’s no surprise that Milan Vodrazka was on the ice when it appeared Bossier-Shreveport got a spark. The Mudbugs still trail 1-0, but the intensity has been picked up a notch – at least temporarily.
TIME: 7:21 p.m.

MEANINGLESS GAME? NOT ACCORDING TO MEMPHIS
The RiverKings are completely controlling the play early at the CenturyTel Center. They lead 1-0 on the scoreboard and 5-1 on the shot board. It appears as if the Mudbugs took this "means nothing" seriously.

WILDFONG, KEMP, CARROLL SCRATCHES
Craig Minard returns to action tonight after missing Saturday's victory.
TIME: 7:03 p.m.

CACCIOLA VS. DILORENZO
"Cash" gets his 12th start in a row.
TIME: 6:47 p.m.

TWO MORE AT HOME
The 2005-06 season's final homestand has just two games left. The penultimate game takes place here at the CenturyTel Center in 50 minutes. The Mudbugs and Memphis RiverKings are bitter rivals, so it will be interesting to see the intensity level in what amounts to a meaningless game.

BIG BLOG FAN
http://www.myspace.com/katewarren
Did ya do splel chcek?

3/18 BUGS vs. TULSA (W, 7-2)

DONT MAKE THE RESERVATIONS FOR WICHITA JUST YET
Oklahoma City scored with .01 seconds remaining to send its game with Wichita into overtime. The Blazers won it in the extra session to move with one point of the Thunder for the No. 3 seed in the Northern Conference.
Wichita still has a game in hand and the teams are slated to meet in the season finale.
TIME: 10:14 p.m.

7-2, wow.
Blair Manning has five points.
Scott Sheppard and Milan Vodrazka have two.
Jeremy Downs nabs three assists.
The happiest dude in the building?
Chris Shaw, who collected point No. 1 on the year.
TIME: 10:12 p.m.

BUGS REGAIN MOMENTUM
Milan Vodrazka likely can't say momentum, but he sure did grab it during the second period Saturday. Tulsa scored a pair to get back into a game it had no business being in, but Vodrazka scored twice midway through the period to regain the three-goal advantage.
5-3 heading to the third.
TIME: 8:40 p.m.

TOM STERNS IS BRUTAL TONIGHT
Time: 8:31 p.m.

VODRAZKA GETS HIS SECOND OF THE NIGHT ... SONIC FOR EVERYONE!
It's 5-2 Mudbugs.
Tom Sterns is brutal tonight.
TIME: 8:25 p.m.

SHAW GETS AN ASSIST ... AND WILL KEEP IT
TIME: 8:23 p.m.

TOM STERNS NEEDS AN EYE DOCTOR
Five minutes into the second period Tom Sterns ruled Chad Spurr kicked the puck into the net??? Spurr CLEARLY knocked the puck in with a forehand.
Sterns was standing within 5 feet of Spurr. That is honestly one of the most baffling rulings I have EVER seen.
It is definitely the most obvious call I have seen get called the wrong way. The replay, shown here at the CTC, will definitely baffle Wayne Bonney, too.
There is no way I, Bonney, or anyone on planet Earth, can justify the call.
Bugs still lead 3-2.
TIME: 8:16 p.m.

NO MATTER THE OUTCOME
The Mudbugs lack of focus in the first five minutes of the second period was atrocious.

MUSCUTT'S NOT GONNA LIKE THIS
Tulsa scores a short-handed goal 11 seconds into the second period. This is absolutely the last thing a team out of the playoff race -- and clearly out of the game in the first period -- needs.
Now, they have life.
TIME: 8:05 p.m.

MAKE IT 3-ZIP
Blair Manning picked up his third point of the night with a semi-breakaway goal to give Bossier-Shreveport a 3-0 lead.
The Mudbugs will begin the second period with 2:47 left on a power play.
The short-handed Mudbugs are making Tulsa look bad. Guess the Oilers have thrown in the towel.
TIME: 7:51 p.m.

WONT GO DOWN AS POWER-PLAY TALLY ... but
Scott Sheppard banged home a rebound three seconds after the Mudbugs' fourth power-play chance of the evening to give the Mudbugs a 2-0 lead.
See, throw the puck at the net and look what happens.
TIME: 7:49 p.m.

LOTS OF PRETTY PASSES NO GOALS
The Mudbugs spent much of the time during a 5-on-3 in the first period showing off some good puck handling skills, unfortunately it didnt amount to much in the way of scoring chances.
TIME: 7:44 p.m.

SOUPY ... CANADIAN FOR PELE
Jason Campbell did his impersonation of the Brazilian soccer star with a bicycle-like kick to get the puck out of the Mudbugs zone while shorthanded in the first period.
TIME: 7:29 p.m.

SMITH SCORES NO. 30
Blair Manning rushed toward the puck after the Mudbugs scored early in the first period to grab the puck for teammate Brett Smith. Smith collected his 30th goal on the power play.
TIME: 7:25 p.m.

OWNERS' BOX IS FULL ... OF MUDBUGS
Four banged up Mudbugs are viewing tonight's game from the box above Section 105. Chad Kemp, Ken Carroll, Dan Wildfong and Craig Minard have the night off.
TIME: 7:10 p.m.

CACCIOLA AGAIN
No surprise here as David Cacciola will take on Tulsa's Marco Emond.

3/17 BUGS vs. WICHITA (L, 2-1)

SPURR MAKES IT INTERESTING, BUT NOT TONIGHT
Jon Volp kept the Wichita Thunder in the game for 40 minutes and then the Thunder's top line of Travis Clayton, Jason Duda and Joe Blaznek took control.
Volp was spectacular, but David Cacciola played another solid game.
This is a game that the Mudbugs offense must step up and with this one for their goalie.
Bossier-Shreveport had several opportunities, but Volp had the answer each and every time.
This was a playoff-type game and the Thunder proved once again that it will be an extremely tough opponent.
Great to see this after the game -- the coaches shaking hands. Scott Muscutt (baby in tow) walked down to the Wichita locker and congratulated first-year Thunder bench boss Mark French.
I'm not quite sure Muscutt and Derek Laxdal would have done the same.
All I know is Round 1 is setting up to be one hell of a hockey series.
TIME: 10:15 p.m.

IT'S 2-0.
Wichita is as potent as ever. Joe Blaznek rifles one into the net during a 4-on-3 advantage. The Bugs trail 2-0.
TIME: 9:18 p.m.

THUNDER STIKES FIRST
Travis Clayton, with help from Jason Duda and Joe Blaznek, scored early in the third period to give Wichita a 1-0 lead. A poor clearing attempt was intercepted by Duda just outside the blue line. Duda patiently waited for his linemates to tag up, then fed a pass to Clayton who rifled one over the shoulder of David Cacciola.
TIME: 9:04 p.m.

THE FIX IS IN ... JUST ONE PROBLEM ....
No one told Wichita goaltender Jon Volp. Wichita looks terrible. There are showing absolutely no discipline or jump, but Volp is a monster. He has 28 saves in 34 minutes of hockey.
TIME: 8:27 p.m.

VOLP IS AMAZING
Jon Volp has single-handedly kept this game scoreless.
He has robbed Scott Sheppard at least three times -- twice on seemingly open nets.
TIME: 8:17 p.m.

ITS GETTING CHIPPY BOYS AND GIRLS
The Mudbugs have failed to score on three power plays in the first period -- including a 4-min stint -- but the story here looks like it's going to be survival.
These teams still don't like each other and it's showing. Wichita's Ryan McLean was kicked out for a cross check to the face of Mudbugs defenseman Jeremy Downs. Downs was given 5 minutes for roughing (that's what was announced). I imagine it will be more of a retaliatory spear.
Scoreless after 1.
TIME: 7:48 p.m.

KUDOS ON THE JERSEYS
Anyone who reads this knows I've had a problem or two with some of the special jerseys. Well tonight's St. Paddy's Day sweaters are tremendous.
Dark green with some nice dark gold trim. The letters and numbers (in white) are clear as day.
TIME: 7:12 p.m.

FUNNY STUFF
Does anyone else find this humorous?
Taken from the Wichita Thunder notes in the Wichita Eagle newspaper.

“The annual wheelchair hockey game drew about 200 fans and raised more than $6,000 for Wheelchair Sports. Ben Murphy’s (current Thunder left winger) shootout goal gave the Thunder players a victory over a team of wheelchair athletes.”

Wonderful PR move to BEAT the wheelchair athletes. They take you to a shootout and then you beat them? Haha.
Of course I have to joke with kid gloves cuz the Wichita people tend not to like anything of mine, but come on! I’m sure this could be some great ammunition for some classic chirping on the ice.
The game sounds like it was for a great cause. It’s awesome to see the players give back to the community. I would have loved to see this game!
It would be great to see the Mudbugs do something like this. That might actually be a team the Mudbugs could beat in a shootout.

3/14 BUGS at MEMPHIS (W, 6-1)

IT WAS GOOD WHILE IT LASTED
Chris Shaw was stripped of the assist he was originally credited with in the third period. I have it from a good source that Brett Smith will likely be given the second assist on the Mudbugs' final goal.
I feel bad for this guy. It's one thing to go through this, but to have the point, then see it disappear is torture!
TIME: 10:32 p.m.

BUGS BLAST MEMPHIS 6-1.
Chris Shaw got a point, Scott Sheppard had two goals and David Cacciola made 43 saves.
TIME: 9:24 p.m.

CHRIS SHAW GETS A POINT!!!
Congratulations to Chris Shaw, who was awarded an assist on Scott Sheppard's second goal in the third period.
TIME: 8:57 p.m.

JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT IT WAS GOING TO BE TAME
The Memphis RiverKings and Mudbugs closed the second period with a bunch of trash talking and Dale Lupul bleeding like stuck pig after taking a punch from Darrell Stoddard.
One word for the third ...
GONG

CAMPBELL MAKES IT 4-0
Jason Campbell scored on a wrister from just inside the blue line to give Bossier-Shreveport a 4-0 lead.
If the CHL was smart, they would institute the 5-goal rule in this one.
TIME: 8:02 p.m.

KUDOS TO DON LONG
It's celebrity night on the radio. First Scott McLeod, aka Biggie Small, is the color guy, now Don Long, Dan Wildfong's father-in-law makes a cameo.
Don, you think Dan is a good scramble partner? Give me a call sometime! haha.
My scramble services are always available.
TIME: 7:49 p.m.

SO, WHERE DOES CARROLL'S ABSENCE LEAVE THE BUGS
Anyone who thought Ken Carroll was just resting up for the playoffs may own a pair of teal and purple glasses. It's clear now that Carroll is hurt, and has been for some time. It will be tough to know exactly how severe Carroll's injury is, Scott Muscutt will not say -- he never comments on injuries.
David Cacciola is having a tremendous year, but there is just something about seeing No. 34 between the pipes come playoff time.
Mudbugs fans can only home this injury will heal in the next two weeks.
TIME: 7:46 p.m.

MILAN VODRAZKA!!
He's a Memphis killer! He scores to make it 3-0 late in the first period. The RiverKings are headed on the power play. Memphis is brutal. Enough said.
TIME: 7:30 p.m.

MARTIN STEHL
Name of new goaltender. He's from Southern New Hampshire.
TIME: 7:23 p.m.

MUSCUTT NOT BEHIND THE BENCH
Trevor Buchanan is coaching this team as head coach Scott Muscutt is under the weather. If the Mudbugs win this one, I don't want any e-mails telling me what the Mudbugs' record with Buck behind the bench is.
TIME: 7:19 p.m.

BRASSARD, MANITOWICH SCORE TWO QUICKIES
The Mudbugs are dominating early. As in most games, the third goal will prove extremely important. A 3-0 lead would be the final dagger I believe as Memphis is TERRIBLE at coming from behind this season.
TIME: 7:17 p.m.

WE KNEW THIS WAS COMING
Ken Carroll is no longer a "healthy" scratch. The Mudbugs signed a third goaltender who will be on the bench tonight. Details coming soon.
TIME: 6:53 p.m.

SCOTT MCLEOD A MUST LISTEN!
My buddy Scott is doing the color for tonight's game on 1130 AM. This is an absolute must listen. He's hilarious, the nicest guy you would ever want to meet and i good hockey guy!!!
TIME: 6:47 p.m.

IN CASE YOU MISSED LAFOREST COLUMN
http://shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060313/SPORTS0405/303130008/1001/SPORTS

AND LAFOREST AUDIO
http://shreveporttimes.com/assets/wma/D921876313.MP3

AT MEMPHIS (21-31-4)
7:05 p.m., DeSoto Civic Center, 1130 AM, chltv.com
Outlook
These teams have met nine times this season, but dang it seems like it's been awhile. Well, the rivalry will be rekindled as tonight is the first of three meetings in the final six games (The RiverKings visit the CenturyTel Center March 21 and 23) ... Memphis legend Don Parsons missed a month -- of course the RiverKings didn't play the Mudbugs during that time -- but has collected four points in his two games back. He has scored two of three game-winners against Bossier-Shreveport this season. Dan Wildfong and Ryan Manitowich have two game-winners for the Bugs ... Wonder if David Cacciola will continue to help Ken Carroll "rest?"
Season series (Bugs lead 6-3)
Date Score Site GWG
Oct. 21 Bugs 4-3 CTC Brett Smith
Oct. 29 Bugs 6-4 DCC Ryan Manitowich
Nov. 11 Kings 3-1 DCC Don Parsons
Nov. 15 Bugs 6-3 DCC Dan Wildfong
Nov. 19 Kings 2-1 CTC Don Parsons
Dec. 23 Kings 4-2 DCC Kevin Harris
Jan. 7 Bugs 3-2 CTC Ryan Manitowich
Jan. 21 Bugs 1-0 CTC Dan Wildfong
Jan. 29 Bugs 4-2 CTC Blair Manning

3/12 BUGS vs. AUSTIN (L, 4-3 in shootout)

http://shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060313/SPORTS0303/603130325/1033

3/11 BUGS vs. OKLAHOMA CITY (W, 4-2)

BUGS SUCK IT UP FOR THIS ONE
The Mudbugs could have mailed this game in after Oklahoma City tied the game at 2 in the third period or when the Blazers were on one of their six power plays in the third. But the undermanned Mudbugs did save some face and scored yet another victory.
The team has some serious concerns right now, with three or four healthy defenseman. Scott Muscutt says he's making calls at 2:30 a.m. to try and find a solution. Look for a blue-liner in town soon.
TIME: 12:07 p.m.

SHAW VS. DEARLE
Good bout here. Both players landed some quality shots. The crowd went crazy when Dearle's helmet went flying, but folks, that was one of his few blows that didn't land.
Shaw earned the original two-minute roughing call and the Blazers scored on their ensuing power play to tie the game.
TIME: 9:26.

A SHOT RINGS OFF THE GLASS YET A PENALT SHOT IS CALLED, LOL
This is by far the worst call I have seen on giving/not giving a penalty shot. Garrett Prosofsky, on a clear break, was tugged on by Chris Brassard, yet rang a blistering shot off the back glass.
Mark Hulshof decided to reward Prosofsky for his inaccuracy with a penalty shot. It was baffling.
Prosofsky put a heck of a move on David Cacciola, but slid the puck wide of the net. It's clear he can't hit the net with or without a goalie in there.
TIME: 9:03 p.m.

WHO TICKED OFF SHEPPARD?
Scott Sheppard is spending more time in the penalty box than Dan Wildfong and Chris Shaw tonight.
TIME: 8:53 p.m.

BIG PENALTY KILL
With Chris Shaw in the penalty box serving a pair of minor penalties, the Mudbugs preserved their 2-1 lead.
Could by the key stretch in this hockey game.
TIME: 8:48 p.m.

LIGHT ME UP QUADER
Quade Lightbody used a nifty wrister to beat Sean Connors and give the Mudbugs a 2-1 lead early in the second period.
TIME: 8:30 p.m.

BLAZERS TIE IT UP
All-Star defenseman Kahlil Thomas scored in the first minute of the second period to quiet the capacity crowd at the CenturyTel Center and tie the game at 1.
TIME: 8:21 p.m.

SPECIAL TEAMS WILL DETERMINE THIS ONE
The Mudbugs had 6 power plays and capitilized on one. Oak City failed on three attempts. Trust me, there will be more.
TIME: 8:03 p.m.

WELCOME TO THE MARK HULSHOF SHOW
We're already had 10 minor penalties called in the first 14 minutes of the game. The Mudbugs are enjoying their fifth and sixth power plays right now -- already had two 5-on-3s.
TIME: 7:51 p.m.

MANITOWICH GIVES BUGS LEAD
Ryan Manitowich scored midway through the first period to give Bossier-Shreveport a 1-0 lead.
TIME: 7:42 p.m.

THIS BUD'S FOR YOU
The Oklahoma City sweaters have an old-timey scrpit B on the front -- reminiscent of the symbol for the King of Beers.
TIME: 7:37 p.m.

BLAZERS SCORE, OH WAIT, NO
Oklahoma City superstar Michel Beausoleil had a goal disallowed after doing his best Karch Kiraly impression. Beausoleil spiked the puck into the net after the shot from his sem-breakaway fluttered high above David Cacciola's head.
TIME: 7:32 p.m.

GAME DELAYED
First it was to let the crowd arrive after an accident on the Jimmy Davis Bridge, now a portion of the glass behind the Mudbugs net has caused a delay. Looks like the game is set to go, 16 minutes late.
TIME: 7:22 p.m.

BACK IN BLACK
In an attempt to change the Karma from last's night's -- well forgettable evening -- the Mudbugs are dressed in black tonight. I believe this is the first time this season.
TIME: 7:21 p.m.

SPURR ANOTHER CASUALTY?
Mudbugs forward Chad Spurr -- the hottest offensive force on the team -- is a scratch from tonight's game. No idea what the reason is here. Know Shaw and Kemp were hurt last night but didn't catch the Spurr injury.
The good news is the return of Dale Lupul, who is nursing a bruised foot.
TIME: 7:10 p.m.

CACCIOLA VS. CONNORS
David Cacciola was one frustrated dude last night as the Youngstown SteelHounds rolled up eight goals. He gets his shot at redemption tonight. The Mudbugs must give him some help in this one. They didn't last night.
TIME: 7:05 p.m.

KEMP SUFFERS BROKEN ARM
Chad Kemp is done for the season after suffering a broken right arm in Friday's game against Youngstown.
He played in 39 games for the Mudbugs this season and recorded one goal and four assists.
The injury leaves the Mudbugs with three "healthy" defenseman -- Craig Minard, Quade Lightbody and Jeremy Downs. Dale Lupul is suffering from a bruised foot after blocking a shot in Rio Grande Valley, Chris Shaw was knocked a bit silly last night against the SteelHounds and Jason Basile remains on the IR with a significant knee injury.
TIME: 6:30 p.m.

3/10 BUGS VS. YOUNGSTOWN (L, 8-3)

SATURDAY'S TIMES A MUST READ
Scott Muscutt, Jean Laforest and Jeff Christian talk about Friday's blowout at the CenturyTel Center. Christian scored 50 and 51, but Muscutt wasn't too happy with his on-ice behavior.
Audio from these three will go up sometime Saturday. Laforest talks about today's article about the 1998-99 Mudbugs vs. this year's Mudbugs squad.

YOUNGSTOWN BEATS DOWN BUGS
It's 6-3 thanks to some horrific defense in the Mudbugs' return to the CenturyTel Center. So much going on, trying to catch up. 10 minutes left, SteelHounds could get to double digits.
TIME: 9:12 p.m.

BUGS GIVE UP KILLER SHORT-HANDED GOAL
Special teams could tell the story again tonight in this series finale. Jeff Christian showed why he's an MVP candidate when he raced the length of the ice and scored a short-handed goal in the final minute of the second period.
The goal was setup by a horrible turnover in the SteelHounds' zone as Chris Brassard left a drop pass for Craig Minard at the point. Only one problem -- Minard was in no man's land and Christian intercepted.
TIME: 8:43 p.m.

SPURR UNDRESSES ANOTHER GOALIE
Chad Spurr tied the game at 2 with a wraparound goal midway throught the second period.
TIME: 8:26 p.m.

KEMP GOES DOWN
First it's Chris Shaw, not defenseman Chad Kemp. Kemp had to be helped off the ice in the second period.
Dale Lupul didn't dress, Shaw was hurt in the first, now Kemp. Half the D-core is down.
TIME: 8:17 p.m.

CHRISTIAN COLLECTS NO. 50
Jeff Christian scored his 50th goal of the season midway through the second period and Youngstown has taken a 2-1 lead at the CTC.
TIME: 8:14 p.m.

5-on-3 GOES BY WITHOUT A GOAL
The Mudbugs moved the puck well and Chris Brassard rang one off the post and was robbed by David St. Germain as the Mudbugs failed to score on the 5-on-3 to start the second.
TIME: 8:05 p.m.

IMPORTANT 1:37 COMING UP
The Mudbugs will have nearly a full 5-on-3 power play to begin the second period after a couple questionable calls by referee Keith Kaval.
Youngstown -- also aided by a few interesting calls -- scored on a 5-on-3 to take a 1-0 lead in the first.
TIME: 7:46 p.m.

SMITH TIES IT UP
Brett Smith showed incredible accuracy to score from the left circle with 2 minutes left in the first period. The game is tied at 1.
TIME: 7:38

HOUNDS GET FACIAL; LEAD 1-0
Kelly Sickavish had a puck bounce off his face -- yes his face -- and over the shoulder of David Cacciola to give Youngstown a 1-0 lead during a 5-on-3 power play.
TIME: 7:37 p.m.

SHAW BACK ON BENCH
It appeared serious, but Chris Shaw is back in the Mudbugs' bench with 7 minutes left in the first period. He went back in the ice paired with Quade Lightbody.
TIME: 7:27 p.m.

CHRIS SHAW GOES DOWN
Defenseman Chris Shaw was in agony after going down in his own zone with what appears to be a significant injury. With the Mudbugs' lack of depth at the blue line, this is not good. Shaw skated with assistance to the locker room holding his lower back.
TIME: 7:20 p.m.

STEELHOUNDS PASS ON NATIONAL ANTHEM, BANNER UNVEILING
In a move a little disrespectful as far as I can see, Youngstown coach Jean Laforest did not send out his team until the very last second at the CenturyTel Center on Friday.
The visitor's bench was empty for the Star Spangled Banner (please people learn the words if you're going to sing it) and the unveiling of the Northeast Division championship banner.
If I was Laforest, I would have had my team -- behind 30 points in the standings -- out there to show them what they are playing for next season.
TIME: 7:12 p.m.

BUGS GET WELL-DESERVED STANDING "O"
The Mudbugs' fans haven't seen their team since the middle of February, and since then, the team has gone 6-0-1. The fans greeted the boys in teal and purple with a standing ovation.
TIME: 7:02 p.m.

CACCIOLA IN NET FOR BUGS
Time: 6:40 p.m.

3/8 BUGS at RIO GRANDE VALLEY (W, 3-1)

SOUPY NETS GAME-WINNER; BUGS FINISH ROAD TRIP IN STYLE
Three third-period goals by the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs led to a 3-1 victory over the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees, one day after the Mudbugs watched a one-goal lead disappear in Hidalgo, Texas.
TIME: 10:13 p.m.

TIE GAME
Brett Smith, like he has so many times this season, pounced on a rebound and scored to tie the game Wednesday night.
TIME: 9:35 p.m.

STILL 1-0 AFTER TWO PERIODS
The Mudbugs definitely enjoyed a better flow during the second period, but still couldn't solve Bees All-Star Evan Lindsay. They trail by one with 20 minutes remaining.
TIME: 9 p.m.

SHEPPARD TAKES HIS TURN WITH THE POST
Sniper Scott Sheppard rang a blast off the post during a 4-on-3 power play midway through the second period. The Mudbugs are attacking well, but still trail 1-0.
TIME: 8:46 p.m.

MUDBUGS PICKING UP THEIR PLAY
Bossier-Shreveport is starting to pressure Rio Grande Valley. With just a one-goal deficit, the Mudbugs could tie this thing at any moment.
TIME: 8:40 p.m.

LINDSAY ROBS MANITOWICH
The Mudbugs finally got a prime scoring opportunity, but Evan Linday -- the Bees' All-Star netminder robbed Ryan Manitowich, who was alone in the slot.
TIME: 8:37 p.m.

SHAW'S PENALTIES WERE FOR
Unsportsmanlike conduct, then a 10-minute misconduct for obscene language.
TIME: 8:18 p.m.

MUDBUGS ON THEIR HEELS AS THE FIRST PERIOD MERCIFULLY ENDS EARLY
Bossier-Shreveport is showing signs of the seven-game road trip tonight. The Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees are unfortunate to only be up 1-0. Thankfully, thanks to another pane of glass coming undone, the period ends 16 seconds early.
TIME: 8:06 p.m.

BEES SCORE FIRST
Dwayne Hay executed a beautiful play to fake Mudbugs netminder David Cacciola out of his shoes, then hit teammate Aaron Phillips with a pass in front of the net. Phillips had no trouble poking the puck into the open goal.
TIME: 8:04 p.m.

MATIC KRALJ UNDRESSES KEMP
Rio Grande Valley forward Matic Kralj danced around Mudbugs defenseman Chad Kemp in the Mudbugs zone, but fired his point-blank shot off the post to keep things scoreless in Rio.
TIME: 7:53 p.m.

NOTHING AGAINST CHRIS SHAW BUT ... IM JUST ASKING
He took a minor penalty and a misconduct moments after the puck was dropped Wednesday night. He has no points this season. He fights every once in a while. What do the Bugs fans think about the effectiveness of Shaw? Leave a comment on the Blog to let me know what you think.
TIME: 7:48 p.m.

BUGS MUST START STRONG
David Cacciola is likely gassed from his performance yesterday afternoon, so the Mudbugs better keep as much pressure off his as they can. If the Bees get as many shots as they did yesterday, I fell Cacciola won't be able to hold Rio off.
TIME: 7:37 p.m.

3/7 BUGS at RIO GRANDE VALLEY (L, 3-2 in shootout)

GAME STORY
http://shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?Category=SPORTS&nocache=1

BUGS LOSE IN A SHOOTOUT
Details of shooout: (Bugs 1-6 this season)
Bugs
Chad Spurr backhand score (1-0 Bugs)
Chris Brassard missed on forehand (1-1)
Brett Smith backhander rolls off stick-no shot (1-1)
Scott Sheppard wrister stopped (1-1)
Dan Wildfong gets poke checked (2-1 Bees, game over)

Bees
Bret Decceco wrister scores (1-1)
Trevor Weisgerber wrister save (1-1)
Nathan Rosychuk wrister stopped 5-hole (1-1)
Matic Kralj wrister scores (2-1 Bees)

MUDBUGS ENJOY OVERTIME POWER PLAY
But fail to score.

NO MATTER THE OUTCOME
The Mudbugs have still not lost a game on the road in regulation in 2006. That's amazing.
TIME: 1:04 p.m.

SHOCKER ... THE GLASS POPS OUT AGAIN
TIME: 1:03 p.m.

HEADED TO OVERTIME
Bees outshooting Bugs 43-24.
TIME: 12:59 p.m.

THIS GAME IS TIED
With the extra attacker, the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees have tied the game at 2 with under a minute remaining -- 37 seconds after Sheppard gave the Mudbugs the lead.
TIME: 12:56 p.m.

SHEPPARD DOES IT AGAIN
Scott Sheppard scored on his own rebound to give the Mudbugs a 2-1 lead with 79 seconds left in regualtion.
TIME: 12:55 p.m.

BEES TIE IT UP
You knew it was coming, but Bret DeCecco tied the game at 1 with a goal late in the third period off a bad rebound from David Cacciola, who had been amazing.
TIME: 12:49 p.m.

SHOTS ARE
FIRST PERIOD: 12-10 BEES
SECOND PERIOD: 10-3 BEES
THIRD PERIOD: 13-2 BEES

I'D SAY THIS CAN'T CONTINUE ... BUT
The Mudbugs are leading despite getting outchanced and outplayed and certainly out power played (I made that word up).
TIME: 12:36 p.m.

YET ANOTHER RIO POWER PLAY
They haven't scored yet today, but the Killer Bees are giving every opportunity to.
TIME: 12:34 p.m.

MORE REPAIRS NEED TO DODGE ARENA'S GLASS
Great, looks like there is no lunch break for me today. The game has been delayed yet again as the glass at the Dodge Arena is being repaired.
TIME: 12:32 p.m.

DID THE BUGS SIGN CACCIOLA OR VLADISLAV TRETIAK?
The Mudbugs netminder has made 27 of 27 saves and appears to be doing his impression of a goaltender who doesn't belong in the CHL.
TIME: 12:28 p.m.

I CAN'T BELIEVE IM MISSING THIS GAME
There is nothing more that I would want than to hear 5,000 kids screaming at the top of their lungs. When are the Bugs going to host such an affair? It really would be a tremendous event.
TIME: 12:25 p.m.

FYI ... RYAN MANITOWICH
Had 22 penalty minutes for the SEASON entering today's game. Tom Sterns has issued three penalties on the speedy Bugs forward today.
TIME: 12:11 p.m.

BUGS OUTSHOT 10-3 IN SECOND ... BUT
Still hold the lead. David Cacciola looks like he's having one of the best games as a professional. That must continue to get his fifth straight victory.
TIME: 12:07 p.m.

MANITOWICH A THIRD PENALTY
Tom Sterns with another interesting call, giving Ryan Manitowich his third minor penalty of the day. The Mudbugs will have to kill off 1:33 of the charging the goaltender call to start the third.
TIME: 12:04 p.m. Just remember who predicted the disparity in penalties.

DELAY AS ARENA IS BEING REPAIRED
The Mudbugs are in the midst of a penalty kill, but a portion of the glass at the Dodge Arena is being repaired. Bugs lead 1-0 late in the second period.
TIME: 11:55 a.m.

ALL IT TAKES IS ONE SHOT
Chad Spurr deposited the puck in the open net on the power play and the Mudbugs take a 1-0 lead despite having just 3 shots in the second period. However, Wildfong is headed to the box.
TIME: 11:50 a.m.

MUDBUGS OFFENSE MIA
If I've heard David Cacciola's name once, I've heard it 400 times. Rio Grande Valley has spent what seems like the entire second period deep in the Mudbugs' zone, but Tom Sterns has just handed the Mudbugs their second power play. Time for the Bugs to switch the momentum.
TIME: 11:48 a.m.

CACCIOLA BIG IN SECOND PERIOD SO FAR
Rookie netminder David Cacciola has made some huge saves early in the second period and the Mudbugs and Killer Bees are still scoreless.
TIME: 11:40 a.m.

BUGS GET A POWER PLAY
Matt Medley heads to the box and the Mudbugs will go on their first power play of the game.
TIME: 11:33 a.m.

MANITOWICH IN BOX AGAIN
Tom Sterns handed Ryan Manitowich his second penalty of the game and, less than a minute into the second period, the Mudbugs are short-handed for the fourth time today. The Mudbugs have not enjoyed a power play yet.
DIDNT SOMEONE ON HERE MENTION RIO MIGHT GET A GOOD GAME FROM STERNS TODAY???
TIME: 11:31 a.m.

BUGS COLLECT SOME BEST OF THE BEST HONORS
The Mudbugs organization had a strong showing in the Central Hockey League's "Best of the Best" awards, collecting five first-place honors.
Ken Carroll was named the best goaltender in the league, Dan Wildfong the best leader, Brett Smith the best penalty killer and the team the hardest working.
The Mudbugs Boilers Booster Club was voted the best in the league.

Scott Muscutt took third in the "best coach" category while the fans at the CenturyTel Center took second in the "most annoying" race while play-by-play master Steve Mears was third in "best announcer."
The CTC was voted the third-best arena in the league and had the third-best locker rooms.


SCORELESS AFTER 1
The Mudbugs certainly wish the first 20 minutes could have been extended. They seemed to get their legs late in the first and were swarming the Rio zone. Maybe the momentum will continue in the second.
TIME: 11:07 a.m.

BUGS PICK IT UP OFFENSIVELY
Now that Bossier-Shreveport has completed its penalty kills -- temporarily at least -- the offense has started to roll. Scott Sheppard rang one off the post late in the first period, but the score is still zip-zip.
TIME: 11:05 a.m.

BEES HAVE 10-4 SHOT ADVANTAGE
Rio Grande Valley has pressed the issue late in the first period and hold a significant advantage on the shot board. Cacciola remains strongs, as does the Mudbugs' penalty killing unit. 3 for 3 thus far.
TIME: 11:02 a.m.

STALEMATE SO FAR
Things are business as usual in the first period. Dan Wildfong has spent plenty of time in the penalty box and David Cacciola has made several big saves.
TIME: 10:59 a.m.

STERNS IS THE REF ... UH OH.
Tom Sterns had a rough outing the only time these teams met this season. A little surprise to see him back doing this game, but that's how the chips fell. Rio coach Tracy Egeland was extremely unhappy and was fined for his comments following the game.
TIME: 10:35 a.m.

CACCIOLA VS. DUNBAR
David Cacciola will face Terry Dunbar this morning.
Cacciola is 11-3-2 with a 2.65 goals-against average and a .917 save percentage on the season while Dunbar is 6-6-2 (3.15, .891)
NOTE: Craig Minard is back in Shreveport in anticipation for the birth of his child.
TIME: 10:31 a.m.

AT RIO GRANDE VALLEY (26-22-5)
10:30 a.m., Dodge Arena, 1130 AM, chltv.com
Outlook
The Dodge Arena will be buzzing. No, that's not some lame attempt at humor, it's actually true. More than 5,000 screaming school children will be in attendance today. These games are quite interesting. The kids, they just don't stop ... The Mudbugs (34-13-6) look for their sixth straight road win against the Killer Bees, who are fight for their playoff lives ... The only time the teams met was Jan. 24 in a curiously officiated hockey game. Referee Tom Sterns called seven minor penalties on the Killer Bees -- to the Mudbugs' two -- in the second period. Two power play goals -- to Rio's one -- were the difference ... Seven Mudbugs are averaging at least one point a game over the last 10.

Season series (Bugs lead 1-0)
Date Score Site GWG
Jan. 24 Bugs 2-1 CTC Chad Spur

3/4 BUGS at OKLAHOMA CITY (W, 2-1)

OKLAHOMA CITY GAME STORY
http://shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060305/SPORTS0303/603050333/1001/SPORTS

POST GAME AUDIO
Scott Muscutt
http://shreveporttimes.com/assets/wma/D92097235.MP3


SAUTER GOES BONKERS
The Blazers enjoyed five straight power plays in the third period, including six of nine minutes with the man-advantage beginning halfway through the third.
Oklahoma City scored what they thought was the tying goal with 53 seconds left, but referee Paul Mariconda waived it off, saying the whistle blew before the puck entered the net. Oklahoma City knocked the puck in after two or three whacks in a scrum with Cacciola.
Oklahoma City coach Doug Sauter charged onto the ice after Mariconda after the final horn. He pushed one linesman in his attempt to get to Mariconda and got into a bit of a shouting match with a few Mudbugs players.
The crowd at the Ford Center littered the ice with garbage as well.

BUGS SQUEAK THIS ONE OUT 2-1
TIME: 10:15 p.m.

BLAZERS GET ANOTHER POWER PLAY WITH 22 SECONDS LEFT
Dan Wildfong took a needless high stick and Oklahoma City will get one last gasp for the last 22.9 seconds left in the game.
TIME: 10:12 p.m.

OKLAHOMA CITY GOAL WAIVED OFF
The Blazers thought they scored the tying goal with 53 seconds left, but the referee waived it off saying the whistle blew. Oklahoma City knocked the puck in after two or three whacks at netminder David Cacciola.
In my opinion, this call could have gone either way. In no way was it a clear-cut goal. Cacciola appeared to have control of the puck before the Blazers knocked it in.
TIME: 10:07 p.m.

AND ANOTHER ...
This just can't keep happening. Now Chad Spurr takes a cross check.
TIME: 10:02 p.m.

HOW LONG CAN BUGS CONTINUE TO SURVIVE THIRD-PERIOD PENALTIES?
The Mudbugs have offered up three power plays in the third period for Oklahoma City.
TIME: 10 p.m.

LAREDO LOSS BIG FOR BUGS
Laredo lost to cellar-dweller Corpus Christi tonight which looms large for the Mudbugs in a possible race for home-ice in the Finals if the two teams would happen to meet.
TIME: 9:57 p.m.

EAGLES LOSE; EARN POINT IN SHOOTOUT
Odessa defeated Colorado 6-5 in a shootout, but the point earned for the Eagles could prove crucial in the standings.
TIME: 9:54 p.m.

BRAD WANCHULAK IS ...
From the University of Notre Dame and his stop with the Memphis River Kings is the fourth of the season. Must be a head case. He scored a hat trick tonight against Youngstown.
TIME: 9:38 p.m.

I'M GOING TO SAY IT
The Mudbugs have yet to lose a game in regualtion in which they led going into the third period. Their record is 23-0-3. Oklahoma City is the best team in the CHL when trailing heading into the third at 5-17-1.
TIME: 9:36 p.m.

COLORADO HAS TIED THINGS UP AT 5; LAREDO LOSING; MEMPHIS UP 7-6!!!
No shocker that the Eagles -- despite 13 skaters -- have tied the score at Odessa. Laredo is losing 2-1 against Corpus Christi, but the story of the night has to be the Memphis RiverKings. Some guy named Brad Wanchulak has a hat trick for Memphis, who leads Youngstown 7-6 in the third. WHO???
And you just can't figure Wichita out. They were on fire before they blew it in Fort Worth last night and now they trail Tulsa 2-1.
TIME: 9:27 p.m.

THIS WIN IS GOING TO BE A TOUGHIE
The Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs lead 2-1 heading into the final period, but Oklahoma City controlled the play in the second period. The Blazers outshot the Mudbugs 15-7 in the second 20 minutes.
TIME: 9:14 p.m.

BLAZERS SCORE ON POWER PLAY
Joe Dustin scored late in the second period and the Mudbugs -- who dominated the first 20 minutes -- have a perilous 2-1 lead.
TIME: 9:09 p.m.

CACCIOLA IS KEY TO AVOIDING OAK CITY COMEBACK
The Mudbugs' skaters have lost the momentum, but David Cacciola is the difference right now. He must continue to make big saves until the Bugs are able to manufacture another goal.
TIME: 9 p.m.

BLAZERS OWN 11-1 SHOT ADVANTAGE
Oklahoma City is definitely a different team in the second 20 minutes. The Blazers own a 11-1 shot advantage midway through this period.
TIME: 8:51 p.m.

INTENSITY UP, BUGS MATCH IT
The Blazers are playing much better in the second period, but the Mudbugs have been up to the task thus far. The third goal of this game will be crucial!
TIME: 8:39 p.m.

OKLAHOMA CITY LIKELY TO COME OUT BLAZING
Oak City isn't going to come out like it did in the first period, so the Mudbugs better be ready. The Blazers reeled off 7 goals last night after a sluggish start.
TIME: 8:29 p.m.

COLORADO LOSING; LAREDO TIED
The Colorado Eagles are losing to the Odessa Jackalopes 3-2 in the second period while the Laredo Bucks are tied at 1 with Corpus Christi after one period.
However, you never count the Eagles out of any game after last night's performance.
Wichita is currently tied with Tulsa after 1.
TIME: 8:19 p.m.

MUDBUGS HEAD TO INTERMISSION UP 2-0
The Mudbugs are 22-3-3 when scoring first this season. Brett Smith has both goals for Bossier-Shreveport. The Mudbugs held the homestanding Oklahoma City Blazers to 3 shots on goal. Those three shots came very, very early in the period.
TIME: 8:14 p.m.

SMITH COLLECTS 28th OF SEASON
Brett Smith took the team lead in goals when he tipped in a Dale Lupul shot six seconds into the Mudbugs' first power play. It's 2-0 already.
TIME: 7:58 p.m.

SMITH OPENS SCORING AGAIN
For the second straight night, Brett Smith scored the first goal of the night. His 27th goal ties him with Scott Sheppard for the team lead.
TIME: 7:53 p.m.

MANNING RETURNS "HOME"
Mudbugs veteran Blair Manning will certainly get some extra love tonight from the fans at the Ford Center. The forward played two seasons (2002-04) there. He scored 32 goals and collected 101 assists in 128 games.
Manning's stats
Year Games G A Pts PIMS
2002-03 64 23 59 82 69
2003-04 64 9 42 51 44

POSSIBLE PLAYOFF PREVIEW
This could be an important night to garner postseason momentum as the Blazers and Mudbugs could meet in the first round.
TIME: 7:44 p.m.

MOMENT OF SILENCE
There was a moment of silence for Graham Dearle before Saturday's game. The Blazers winger lost his mother, Bonnie, in an auto accident this week.
A terrible couple of weeks for parents of CHL players as Colorado's Ryan Tobler lost his father last week.
TIME: 7:35 p.m.

LUPUL IN STARTING LINEUP
Great to see Mudbugs rookie defenseman Dale Lupul in the starting lineup tonight. If you listened to the Scott Muscutt interview from last night, he said that Lupul would likely not play tonight. But his pregame skate must have gone well, the headaches gone and Lupul is ready to go.
TIME: 7:33 p.m.

CACCIOLA GETS ANOTHER START
You read it last night on the blog ... Ken Carroll would be getting some rest, well here's more proof. Cacciola makes his third straight start on and fourth in five games.
TIME: 7:28 p.m.

RECAP FROM SATURDAY NIGHT
Story
http://www.shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060304/SPORTS0303/603040357/1033
Audio
Scott Muscutt
http://www.shreveporttimes.com/assets/wma/D92092033.MP3
Brett Smith
http://www.shreveporttimes.com/assets/wma/D92088333.MP3

GAMEDAY
AT OKLAHOMA CITY (32-20-3)
7:35 p.m., Ford Center, 1130 AM, chltv.com
Outlook
For the second straight night, the Mudbugs encounter a team fighting for its playoff position ... The Mudbugs have taken five of six points from the Blazers in three meetings this season. Bossier-Shreveport forward Brett Smith has two goals and three assists in the series this season and scored the game-winner in the most recent meeting Jan. 20. Michel Beausoleil and Marty Standish have collected two goals each against the Mudbugs ... Oklahoma City is a possible first-round playoff opponent for the Mudbugs, but the Blazers are in a major battle with Wichita for the No. 3 spot in the Northern Conference.

Season series (Bugs lead 2-0-1)
Date Score Site GWG
Dec. 29 Blazers 4-3 (SO) FC Tim Earl
Dec. 30 Bugs 3-2 (OT) CTC Chad Kemp
Jan. 20 Bugs 2-1 CTC Brett Smith

3/3 BUGS at AMARILLO (W, 6-1)

BUGS ROLL; EAGLES JUST DON'T QUIT
The Mudbugs skated past Amarillo 6-1, but the bigger news may be what's happening in Colorado. The Eagles scored twice in the final 97 seconds of regulation to force overtime against the Cotton Kings.
The Mudbugs had the chance to pull within seven points of the Northern Conference leaders. Now it will be an eight-point advantage at the least.
Colorado wins in a shootout. Still leads by nine over Bossier-Shreveport.
TIME: 9:38 p.m.

BUGS "ONE OF THE BEST TWO OR THREE TEAMS"
Amarillo's announcer, while chastising goaltender Shawn Degagne said, "granted, the Mudbugs are the second or third best team in the CHL."
The overall record might say that, but clearly there is no team playing the hockey the Mudbugs have played the past two months. This is one of the best runs in the league's history.
Bossier-Shreveport has earned at least one point in each of its past 15 games (14-0-1) and owns a 20-1-2 mark since Jan. 6.
Laredo had a 21-1-3 streak during its President's Cup season of 2003-04.

TURN OUT THE LIGHTS
Scott Muscutt's plan to get his Mudbugs acclimated to the ice Amarillo has apparently worked. Jason Campbell scored to give the Mudbugs their fourth straight goal and a 5-1 lead early in the third.
TIME: 9:08 p.m.

COLORADO CURRENTLY LOSING
With Lubbock holding a 4-2 lead on the Colorado Eagles early in the third period, the Mudbugs may have a chance to pick up two points on the Northern Conference leaders. Bossier-Shreveport trailed Colorado by nine entering tonight with two games in hand. Assuming wins in the two extra games, some could look at Colorado's lead at three if they lose tonight.
TIMEL 9:04 p.m.

THEY DID IT AGAIN
The Mudbugs killed off the sixth Gorillas' power play to begin the third period. It marked the second unsuccessful 5-on-3 effort by Amarillo.
TIME: 9:02 p.m.

ANOTHER 5-ON-3
A late penalty by Bossier-Shreveport defenseman Chris Shaw gave the Gorillas a 5-on-3 to begin the third period. This is the second time tonight a Shaw penalty has lead Amarillo to a two-man advantage. I have a tough time believing Scott Muscutt is a happy man as the Mudbugs hit the dressing room -- despite a 4-1 lead.
TIME: 8:40 p.m.

BUGS KILL PENALTIES
The Mudbugs survived the 5-on-3 and still hold a three-goal advantage. One of the amazing things about this recent streak is the fact the Mudbugs have been able to do this despite the loss of players such as Jason Basile and Dale Lupul (although on for tonight). I was worried about the lack of depth on the blue line, but the healthy defenseman and the forwards have picked up the slack. Quite impressive.
TIME: 8:31 p.m.

SHAW GIVEN BOARDING PENALTY
The last thing the Gorillas need right now is power-play time. Chris Shaw and Chad Spurr helped Amarillo to a 5-on-3 opportunity with penalties midway through the second period.
TIME: 8:27 p.m.

NOT TO BE FORGOTTEN ...
Dale Lupul, as expected, was held out of Friday's game at Amarillo. The defenseman, injured Saturday at Youngstown, did skate with the team Thursday and today.
TIME: 8:24 p.m.

SHEPPARD SCORES 14TH POWER-PLAY TALLY OF SEASON
Scott Sheppard has given the Mudbugs a 4-1 lead with a power-play goal during 4-on-3 play.
TIME: 8:23 p.m.

WILDFONG VS. SOCHOLOTUCK
Dan Wildfong got the better half of a spirited fight between Amarillo's Trevor Socholotuck not long after the Mudbugs took a 3-1 lead. Wildfong landed some solid early blows while Socholotuck rallied late. But this decision goes to Wildfong 10-9.
TIME: 8:14 p.m.

ASK AND YOU SHALL RECEIVE
Ryan Manitowich gave the Mudbugs a 3-1 lead.
TIME: 8:12 p.m.

A HOME GOAL JUDGE SAYS "NO GOAL"??????
As soon as referee Paul DePuydt skated to talk to the goal judge, you just had to feel the Gorillas had tied the game at 2. However, the home off-ice official rules Amarillo did not score and the Mudbugs still have a 2-1 lead.
Amazing.
TIME: 8:10 p.m.

PALAHICKY SCORES TO GIVE BUGS LEAD
Shane Palahicky fired a blast past Amarillo netminder Shawn Degagne early in the second period to give the Mudbugs a 2-1 lead. Will be interesting to see if the Mudbugs can garner a two-goal lead. They have been great at getting the lead, but not very good at getting a multi-goal advantage.
TIME: 8:07 p.m.

CARROLL GETS ANOTHER NIGHT OFF
This is typical come March for the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs ... Ken Carroll getting some rest. Rookie netminder David Cacciola gets his second start in a row and third in four games as he takes on the Gorillas in the Jungle.
Expect Carroll to play sparingly as the postseason approaches.
Goalie duties in March:
2004-05: Ken Carroll 5 games; Jeff Blair 5 games.
2003-04: Jeff Blair 5 games; Ken Carroll 3 games.
TIME: 7:47 p.m.

BUGS, GORILLAS TRADE FIRST-PERIOD GOALS
Brett Smith scored his 25th of the season to give the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs a 1-0 lead midway through the first period, but Scott Wray tied the game late in the period with his 29th.
The undersized jungle provides less-than-enough room to create scoring opportunities, but Amarillo outshot the Mudbugs 14-10 in the opening 20 minutes.
TIME: 7:43 p.m.

CARROLL GETS GOALIE OF MONTH
Bossier-Shreveport netminder Ken Carroll was announced as the Central Hockey League’ Goaltender of the Month for February.
Carroll posted a perfect 8-0-0 during the month with a goals-against average of 2.25 and a save percentage of .927.
Carroll, also a Northern Conference All-Star this season, helped lead the Mudbugs to a record of 12-0-1 during February and extended his personal winning streak to 12. He earned his CHL-best fourth shutout of the season with a 3-0 win at Fort Worth on Feb. 4. The Oil City, Ontario native is among CHL leaders in wins (20, T-5th), goals-against average (2.31, 3rd) and save percentage (.921, 6th).
This is the second time this season Carroll has earned Goaltender of the Month honors. He was also the recipient in October.

Dale Lupul eyes speedy recovery
http://www.shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060303/SPORTS0303/603030303/1033

Muscutt sends Bugs to Amarillo early to adjust to small ice surface
http://www.shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060303/SPORTS0303/603030305/1033

Watch out for Wichita. Thunder rolls.
http://www.shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060303/SPORTS0303/603030304/1033

Tales From the Swamp
http://www.shreveporttimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060303/SPORTS0303/603030330/1033

MUDBUGS GAMEDAY
AT AMARILLO (25-22-3)
7 p.m., Amarillo Civic Center, 1130 AM, chltv.com
Outlook
The Mudbugs (32-13-6) look for a little revenge on the Gorillas, who rallied to force overtime two weeks ago and defeated Bossier-Shreveport on a goal from Mark DeSantis. Mudbugs alternate captain Chris Brassard scored two goals in the Feb. 17 matchup while defensemen Craig Minard and Dale Lupul collected two assists apiece ... Mudbugs coach Scott Muscutt sent his team to Amarillo a day earlier than normal to get team more acclimated to the smaller ice surface ... This game begins a stretch of four straight against team battling to get in the 2006 postseason. The Gorillas are in a three-way battle with Amarillo and Rio Grande Valley for the final two spots in the Southern Conference.
Season series (Amarillo leads 1-0)
Date Score Site GWGFeb. 17
Gorillas 4-3 (OT) ACC Mark DeSantis