5/3/08 Wolves /Rockford game 2, Wolves 7, Rockford 3

Game on! The Chicago Wolves came with their game faces on last night for the second meeting in the playoff series against the Rockford IceHogs. Clearly the Wolves seemed more intense and disciplined from the opening minutes. A prime example of this was a hit on Chicago blueliner Boris Valabik (#4) by Rockford center Jake Dowell. Valabik went straight into the boards with the left side of his neck, shoulder and head into the pine. For a few endless minutes the stadium held its breath while the trainer and Vaabik conferred from his prone position. He rose and gingerly skated to the bench. There he remained with his team mates packed in ice and holding his own, Valabik returned for the second period and during the third had ultimate revenge scoring a goal for the Wolves. That was the only retaliation for the hit. Jason Krog(#10) the Wolves scoring powerhouse, had a long night. He seemed to be the target of constant stick holding,hits and interference. Often not called or seen by the refereeing staff. Again the discipline held and retaliation was kept to chatter and scoring goals. Obviously the winner of this hard fought series will be the one with the lowest PIMs and most goals.

This afternoon the Wolves pack up their gear and fans and head to the infamous Metro. The BOB is a great place to see a game, great sight lines and tasty concessions. The Wolves besides needing to get into golaie Corey Crawford's head early and stay there will need to silence the always deafening Rockford crowds. As always, stay out of the sin bin boys!

It's going to be lovely day of great hockey to be sure, starting with the BBQ with Elvis and Priscella. I checked out the menu last night, alas, no pig roast, but great classic burgers and all the fixings. Sounds like perfect playoff hockey to me!




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