Charlotte Checkers Check-In (January 25)
Happy Friday Checkers fans! We checked in last Friday after the Charlotte Checkers had won three in a row and six of their last seven. Last weekend ended the home stand with two games against the Toronto Marlies. I know it’s a little odd to hear, but the Checkers lost both games. Saturday’s game was a very tough, 4-3 loss in overtime, so the Checkers were able to at least get a point out of it. But Sunday’s game was a different story, with the good guys falling 5-0.
After several games where the Checkers got out to an early lead, they went back to their falling-behind-early ways last weekend. This has led to many exciting comebacks on the season, but its something the Checkers are going to have to change once they’re in the playoffs. They fell behind to the Marlies last Saturday, but were able to once again come back and tie it up in the third period to force overtime. Toronto’s Mason Marchment took matters into his own hands at that point, and sent one to the back of the net to give them the coveted two points on the night. Jake Bean, Patrick Brown, and Nick Schilkey all scored goals for the Checkers.
Turning right around at 1:00 the next afternoon, the two squads went back at it. Scott Darling, who’s had a rough year with the Checkers, started in net. Unfortunately, things didn’t change for the better for Darling, as he gave up five goals to the Marlies. It was an overall frustrating afternoon for the Checkers. With only 20 shots on goal, compared to Toronto’s 37, it was a lopsided affair throughout the entire game. Sunday’s game was the Checkers’ sixth game in ten days, so I’m sure physical and mental fatigue played crucial factors in the convincing loss.
The good thing for the team is they had all week off to rest up and prepare for the weekend. As fans, I know we all missed Checkers hockey during the week, but the players really needed the break. They will be back in action tonight on the road in Providence taking on the Bruins and tomorrow night in Hartford taking on the Wolf Pack. The Checkers hold a 3-1 advantage against both the Bruins and the Wolf Pack on the season. Unless you will be in the Northeast this weekend, don’t forget to check out the games on AHLtv. The next home game will be Friday, February 1 against the Providence Bruins. Be sure to come out to Bojangles Coliseum and bring your friends and family. Go Checkers!
Garett