Hawks down Bombers in opener

COLUMBUS, OH -- The Arrowhawks opened the fall session where they left off in the summer, with a 3-1 win against the stingy Bombers. But it was with a new cast. The story wasn't as much of who was there, but who wasn't. There were a total of 12 full time and subs missing from the lineup. Rumors they were all attending a Lady Gaga concert in Detroit were not confirmed. Filling in for many of the regulars were Kyle Sharkey and Tim "TIMMY" Pennington.

The Hawks ultimately ended up with 2 lines, a full line fewer than the Bombers.

"It looked like they had a lot of skaters out there," said defensman Mike Gauthier. "I tried to count them all but I lost count at 36. I may have counted a couple twice. I never was good at math." said Gooch.

The opening period and a half was a tight affair. Both goalies were up to the task, making several good saves. First line left wing Tom Morgan opened the scoring with an even strength goal at the 5:28 mark in the second period. Tim Pennington and Mark Monahan assisted on the play.

The Arrowhawks had two power play opportunities in the first period, but the Bombers defenseman came up big on the penalty kill.

"They are a good team," said Monahan. "We're glad we got them early because they have enough skill to give teams fits later on." he added.

Monahan scored the eventual game winner, potting a rebound past the Bombers netminder. Kyle Sharkey jumped into the play from his defensive spot and Monahan was there to finish. The Bombers didn't go quietly. They sustained steady pressure in the third period, firing many shots at Arrowhawk goaltender Jason Jensen.

Jensen returned to the pipes after skating out during the summer session.

"Jason was in rare form again," said Terry Walker who was great defensively. "He had a quick glove and smothered rebounds like a fat fifth grade protecting his lunch."

Rick Titus scored the Hawks third goal, burying a rebound in close quarters. "I watched the Ginger Wizard do it in the summer, so I figured I'd crash the net like Torsok usually does. I guess I got lucky."

Jensen made 19 saves on the night, before giving up a late goal in the final minutes. "I was screened on the play but should have made the save. Oh well, we got the win," said Jensen.

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