DOG DAYS

HAMILTON, Ontario – The lone Griffins’ tally during the final period was out-matched as the Hamilton Bulldogs scored once in each of the first two periods delivering a 2-1 loss to Grand Rapids Friday night at Copps Coliseum.

The Griffins will look to gain revenge against their North Division rivals tomorrow night in the conclusion of their back-to-back set in Hamilton at 7 p.m.

The Bulldogs dominated during the first period claming a 13-4 edge in shots and were awarded four power plays, but could not convert as the Griffins’ penalty killing was flawless. Amongst the offensive pressure Duncan Milroy netted the first goal of the contest at 4:05 when he found a loose puck in the goal mouth and jammed it over the goal line.

Just like the first period Hamilton scored the lone tally of the middle frame, jumping to a two-goal lead at 5:34 during an odd man break. Jonathan Ferland dropped a pass to Corey Locke at the right circle who sent a laser over Stefan Liv’s glove.

Following numerous diving saves from Liv to keep his team in contention, Grand Rapids scored during a power play at 8:32 of the final period to narrow the gap. Matt Hussey found a wide open Josh Langfeld at the left goal post from the right circle to pound a one-timer into the open net past Yann Danis.

Despite the high-pressure offense in the waning moments of the game with an empty net, the Griffins could not light the lamp again as the Hamilton defense stood strong and sealed the 2-1 victory in front of their home crowd.

Liv played well in the crease with 26 saves while Danis stopped 23 at the other end.