IceHogs Roar Past Griffins 5-2

The Rockford IceHogs took on the Grand Rapids Griffins this past Saturday evening before a sold out crowd of 6151 in the MetroCentre. It was "Fleece Blanket Night" and the fans always turn out in droves for that premium give away. 

In the first frame, it appeared that the Griffins dominated the Hogs. The majority of the action during the first frame occured deep in the IceHogs zone, but the Griffins were unable to convert any of their 11 shots on goal. 

Corey Crawford was once again the starting netminder for Rockford, while Thomas McCollum was in goal for Grand Rapids. While Crawford's performance lacked the sharp finesse he's been showing of late, he was still able to get the job done, stopping 28 of 30 shots on goal.

Chicago Blackhawks Prospect Jonathan Carlsson scored his first American Hockey League goal for Rockford during the 2nd frame. Carlsson was Chicago's 6th Round (162nd overall) 2008 National Hockey League Entry Draft Pick. He has spent the majority of this season in Toledo with the Blackhawk's East Coast Hockey League affiliate, the Walleye and is in his Rookie season. Carlsson also was awarded the #1 star of the Game.

At the time of this writing, Rockford is currently in 2nd place in the West Division of the AHL, just 1 point behind the Milwaukee Admirals. However, that position is shaky, as everyone else within the division has anywhere from 3-5 games in hand on the IceHogs.

Corey Crawford and Jassen Cullimore defending the goal for Rockford.

Thomas McCollum netminder for the Griffins.

Goal Celebration.

IceHogs' Richard Petiot introduces the Griffin's Francis Pare to the glass.