News release
3 February 2007
Bloomington Goaltender Steffan Braunlich stops 41 shots to beat the Jackals 4-1
Elmira, NY Rookie goaltender Steffan Braunlich turned in a fabulous performance as he lifted the Bloomington PrairieThunder to a 4-1 win over the Elmira Jackals Saturday night at First Arena.
Former Jackal Greg Koehler put the visiting PrairieThunder in the lead as he scored at 9:42 from Ryan Gillis and Tyler Rennette. Rennette then made it 2-0 Bloomington on another Elmira turnover in their defensive zone; assisted by Koehler at 12:36. The Jackals out-shot their opponents 14-7 in the opening period, but failed to put the puck in the net.
In the second period Brad Thompson picked up a loose puck and put home a rebound for a power play goal at 10:57, giving Bloomington a 3-0 lead. Elmira had three more power plays in the second period, but still could not get on the scoreboard.
Finally some hope for the 3,252 fans at First Arena. 11 seconds into the third period, Koehler was whistled for hooking and the Jackals cashed in for a power play goal. Frank Littlejohn knocked home his 26th goal of the season at 0:50, assisted by Brent Cullaton and Elmira had completely turned the momentum in their favor. But the Jackals could not convert on either of their next two power plays, leading to Bloomingtons 4th goal, scored by John Spoltore at 14:54, effectively sealing the victory for the PrairieThunder.
Steffan Braunlich made a colossal 41 saves on 42 shots for his 4th win of the season. Bloomington finished 1-for-4 on the power play and improved to 13-31-2 on the year. Dave Lemanowicz stopped 24-of-28 shots in goal for Elmira, as the Jackals went 1-for-8 on the power play and dropped to 22-25-1 on the season.
The Jackals return to action on Friday, February 9th as they host the Chicago Hounds for the first of two games in Elmira. Both games are scheduled for a 7:35 pm face off at First Arena.