ALLEN, TX– Colton Yellow Horn’s empty-net goal in the final minute of play closed the door on the 2010-11 season for the Odessa Jackalopes by sealing a 3-1 win for the Allen Americans on Friday night at the Allen Event Center. With the win, the Americans advance to the Conference Final round of the Ray Miron Presidents’ Cup Playoffs.
The Jackalopes pulled their goaltender with just over a minute remaining, and trailing 2-1, after killing off a Sebastien Thinel cross-checking penalty.
Dave Bonk’s goal with six seconds left in the second period proved to be the game-winner, as Allen took the lead on a scrum at the front of the net at the end of the frame.
Scott Langdon gave the American’s a 1-0 lead 8:38 into the contest when a bouncing puck in front ended up in the net after hitting off his foot. Mike Ramsay tied the game on the power play with Odessa’s only goal of the night with 10 second left in the period.
Joel Martin stopped 38 of 40 shots for the Jackalopes in the losing effort. Chris Whitley put in an 18-save performance for Allen.
For the just the third time in league history, the Americans erased an 0-2 deficit in the best-of-series to win and advance after a controversial, game four win in Odessa gave them a chance to close the series on home ice. It was the second straight season the Jackalopes fell to Allen in the final game of a playoff series.
The Jacks will hold and season-ending party for their fans on Tuesday night. Call 432-552-7825 or visit Jackalopes.org for more information.
The Odessa Jackalopes are the Central Hockey League affiliate for the NHL’s New York Islanders and the AHL’s Bridgeport Sound Tigers. The team just complete its 14th season. Season tickets, mini-plans, and single game tickets are available by calling (432) 552-7825 or visiting jackalopes.org.
Follow the Jackalopes all year long on Facebook and Twitter — Twitter.com/ODEJackalopes.
