ODESSA, TX — The Jackalopes played a much better first period on Friday night, they moved the puck well, they were winning board battles and they matched the speed of the Amarillo Bulls. Unfortunately however, they still trailed 2-0 after the first period. That deficit proved to be imperative as the Jackalopes (3-5-0-0) fell to the Amarillo Bulls (3-4-0-1) by a score of 3-2 at the Ector County Coliseum on Friday night.
Just like Wednesday the Jacks found themselves behind going into the second period. But unlike Wednesday they proved up to the task of attempting a comeback.
In the second period Dayne Hoyord was able to find a rebound and sent a quick shot in past Amarillo netminder Cal Sandquist who had been perfect against the Jackalopes for the past 91 minutes of playing time going back to Wednesday night. Hoyord’s first of his North American Hockey League career brought the Jackalopes within one, but the Bulls struck back later in the period.
A deflected shot in front found its way in past Jackalopes goaltender Connor Hasley and once again Odessa found themselves down by two goals. Though they were down 3-1, the Jacks continued to press on and found an answer less then a minute later.
Kyle VanCompernolle, who had picked up his first career NAHL point off of an assist on Hoyord’s goal, found himself streaking in on Sanquist and capitalized on a quick, low shot. Van Compernolle’s first goal of his NAHL career brought the Jackalopes back within one and breathed new life back into the team.
Unfortunately, despite several power plays and many chances, the Jackalopes could not find the equalizer in the third period and fell for the third straight game against Amarillo. Both teams registered 28 shots on net and were perfect on the penalty kill. Odessa had five chances on the power play, Amarillo had four.
The Jackalopes will look to force a weekend split against the Bulls on Saturday at the Ector County Coliseum, face-off is set for 7:15 pm.
