From: Patrick Armstrong, Director of Communications
713.361.7920 (Direct Line)
Scott Henninger, Communications Manager
713.361.7930 (Direct Line)
Sunday, January 20, 2008

BULLDOGS TAKE DOWN AEROS 2-1 IN HARD-HITTING MATCH

HOUSTON, Texas – The Hamilton Bulldogs held off the Houston Aeros’ late push and defeated the Bombers 2-1 in front of 6,373 fans at Toyota Center Sunday night. The Aeros (22-16-2-2) took four minutes of the final period with an extra attacker and managed one goal against the Bulldogs (18-17-1-5). Houston has the next four days to recuperate and prepare for back-to-back games against San Antonio Friday and Saturday nights.

BOX SCORE

The Aeros’ LW Peter Olvecky netted the team’s lone goal of the night. Hamilton defenseman Pavel Valantenko recorded two assists to lead the team in points. Bulldogs’ goaltender Carey Price blocked 18 of 19 shots on net in the win as Nolan Schaefer stopped 23 of 25 in the loss. Hamilton converted on two of six power-play chances as the Aeros went 0-for-4 on their man-advantage opportunities.

The scoring didn’t begin until the middle of the second period as Hamilton’s center Mathieu Aubin netted the first goal of the night on a Bulldog power-play. Valentenko and D Jean-Phillipe Cote earned the assists on the marker. The Aeros tied a season low of ten shots through the first two periods having taken four shots in the first, six in the second.

The third period started early for the Bulldogs as RW Jonathan Ferland netted the eventual game-winner at 1:47 in the period on a power-play. Valentenko and D Marvin Degon earned the assists putting the Bulldogs up 2-0. Houston pulled Schaefer from the net with nearly four minutes left to play and eventually netted the team’s only goal at 18:03 in the final session. Hamilton fought off the remaining 1:57 of the Aeros extra attacker for the 2-1 win.

The Aeros stay home and host the San Antonio Rampage in back-to-back games next Friday and Saturday night, both at 7:35 p.m. Saturday night is the Aeros’ Hockey Visor Giveaway for the first 3,000 fans entering Toyota Center. Tickets are still available for both nights so call 713.974.PUCK or visit Aeros.com to get your tickets today!

Notes:
- The Aeros fell to 8-1-1-0 when keeping the game scoreless after first period.
- Tonight’s loss marks the first loss when holding the opposing team to less than three goals. The record now reads 13-1-0-0 when the opponent scores two or less.
- Ten shots on goal tied a season low in shots after two periods.

-- HOUSTON AEROS --