News release
10 January 2014
ELMIRA, N.Y. - The Elmira Jackals take on the Reading Royals tonight in the first game of a three-in-three this weekend. Tonight marks only the Jackals' third home game since December 11, 2013.
WHO: Elmira Jackals - Ottawa and New Jersey/NHL & Binghamton and Albany/AHL (10-16-4) vs. Reading Royals - Washington/NHL & Hershey/AHL (16-12-1)
WHAT: Jackals Home Game #14. His Tabernacle Faith and Family Night with free post-game concert by Oh! Eternity. Game broadcast on Gem 98.7 FM begins at 6:50.
The Jackals are facing the Royals tonight for the seventh of 16 meetings this season, and fourth of seven at First Arena. The Jackals are 2-3-1 against the Royals this season (0-2-0 at home) after a 6-2 defeat at home on December 26. The six goals allowed were the most Elmira has given up in regulation in a home game and equaled the most Reading has scored in a road game (also Nov. 1 at Wheeling) this season. Elmira is looking to boost its offensive production with the addition of Mike Vaskivuo and Jake Trask, as well as the return of Philip-Michael Devos from the AHL, and Reading might be the team to do it against. The Royals have given up 13 goals in their last three games (4.3/game) while the Jackals are averaging 3.2 goals per game in their last five home games. Elmira is 3-0-0 in that stretch when scoring more than two goals.
Elmira's effort on the penalty kill has been a major strength at home this season. After last Saturday's 4-for-4 effort against Wheeling the Jackals' home PK ranks number one in the entire ECHL at a 92.9% conversion rate. Elmira is 30-for-30 on the kill at home dating back to November 22 vs. Kalamazoo. The Wings accounted for two of the three home PPGs Elmira has given up that night. The Jackals' three home power play goals surrendered are the fewest in the league as are their 42 times shorthanded.
Saturday, January 11: Elmira Jackals vs. Reading, 7:05 p.m. 4-for-$44.