MAIN -- ROSTER -- LEAGUE -- FRANCHISE -- MEDIA
Game 1:
Mitty 9 Franchise Hockey 3
June 16, 2006: Franchise Hockey made its long-awaited Rollin' Ice debut, falling to Mitty 9-3.  Playing with eight bodies, the Franchise put up a remarkable fight, considering the number of rookies on the roster.

Chris Sorenson led the way with two goals, both point-blank wrist shots from the slot.  Matt King added a goal, including a back-hander for the team's first Rollin' Ice goal.  David McGrouther made several sparkling saves in net, despite giving up nine goals.

Franchise Hockey was the victim of bad luck.  With defensemen Sheraj Ragoobeer and Ray Cleverly overseas, the team's defensemen were exposed.  The team was generally outskated, with the lack of indoor wheels being a tragic flaw.

Things will only get tougher for the Franchise, as McGrouther and top defenseman Kit McCavitt go on the Inactive List for next week's game.

Box Score:

2nd Period:
King 1 (unassisted), Sorenson 1 (Merk)

3rd Period:
Sorenson 2 (Winters, McCavitt)

Goaltending:
McGrouther 0-1 (9 GA)

Captain's Thoughts
:
This was an amazing effort for a first game.  Obviously, Franchise Hockey isn't known for or okay with losing.  However, this is a whole different breed of competition.

D-Day really stepped up in net.  There's not many guys who can give up nine goals and have a great game, but he easily could have packed it in and given up 20.

Miami scored two.  What can you say about the guy?  He just produces and brings energy and swagger to the team.

On defense, DC, JP and Chris C. were rock solid.  I made a couple stupid plays, and they covered for me pretty well.  They all had solid games.

And finally, fowards Robby and Conan skated hard and brought energy to the team.  Overall, the team played together and made me proud.

If I had one piece of advice for everyone, it would be to get indoor hockey wheels.  Besides that, keep practicing, and we'll be right back at it again.  Same time next week.-

Your Captain
#37

From Chris Sorenson:

Overall, great game team. We entered our first game with a crucial disadvantage; knowledge of the rink, and strategies to a 4-on-4 game. This was a good starting point for Franchise Hockey; we can only go up from here. Some things to keep in mind:

1. Play Physical- Although not everybody on our team is of big build, we all need to sacrifice ourselves at some point in each game. Don�t be afraid to go hard into the corner for the puck; always remember that you�ve got three teammates to back you up. Be tough and persistent.

2. Stay Back on Defense- Our defense did a great job protecting David in net this game, but one of the most crucial points was forgotten at times. Do not let the offense of the other team get behind you on defense. If this happens, it only takes one pass from the other team to get a goal. Be careful; it is essential to be aggressive, but also remember your job as a defenseman.

3. Better Transition Game- Offense has to remember to play back on defense. Although their primary job is to score, in the 4-on-4 type game, they need to get back.

4. Slow the Game Down- When possible, after David makes a save, try to gain possession of the puck, and move up towards our offensive zone as a team. It is essential that at least 3 of our 4 players contribute to each offensive rush. It is hard for one or two players to try to score alone, let�s play as a team.

I�m extremely happy with our level of intensity and hard work in this game, and I�m looking forward to next game. There were several outstanding players in the game today. We�ve got to thank all the rookies for a hard fought first game, and for sticking in there all night. Matt King did an extremely good job of keeping the team together, and transitioning between offense and defense. Robby, as well, played a great transition game; thanks for all the hustle. Also, solid defense by Kit and John, and a superb game in net for David. Keep of the hard work Franchise Hockey; we�ll get our first win soon.
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