BEARS MAKE STATEMENT IN GAME 1 VICTORY WEDNESDAY

May 12, 2010

BEARS DETHRONE MONARCHS TO TAKE GAME 1 Collins Opens Scoring 16 Seconds In By Jess Mikula Despite a nearly two-week layover between series, the BEARS struck early and held off a third-period Manchester rally to down the Monarchs by a score of 4-2. With the win, HERSHEY took a 1-0 lead in the seven-game series. The BEARS wasted no time getting back on the score sheet. Sean Collins notched his first of the postseason just 16 seconds into the contest with a shot from the left point, fed by Chris Bourque and Mathieu Perreault. Andrew Gordon added his 10th playoff goal midway through the opening period, collecting the rebound of an Alexandre Giroux one timer in the slot for the power play goal at 10:02. Keith Aucoin tallied the secondary helper. HERSHEY carried a two-goal advantage to the dressing room after 20 minutes. Steve Pinizzotto scored the lone goal of the second period for his third of the playoffs, sending an unassisted marker top shelf on Manchester netminder Jonathan Bernier at 7:25. The Chocolate and White maintained a 3-0 lead through two periods. Andrei Loktionov ended Michal Neuvirth’s shutout bid at the 12:32 mark of the third period, potting a wrister from the right circle, assisted by Jacob Muzzin and Kyle Clifford. Karl Alzner answered for the BEARS, burying a dish from Boyd Kane at 14:18. Gabe Gauthier rounded out scoring for the Monarchs, finishing a centering feed from Oscar Moller and Trevor Lewis at 16:10. Neuvirth earned his seventh postseason win in net, turning aside 24 of 26 shots. HERSHEY converted once on five power play opportunities and blanked Manchester on each of its three man advantage chances. Bears Radio Network Three Stars of the Game: 1. Sean Collins (first goal of the playoffs 16 seconds in) 2. Steve Pinizzotto (game-winning goal) 3. Michal Neuvirth (24 saves on 26 shots) Notes: HERSHEY now holds a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. The BEARS will host Manchester for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Saturday night. Opening faceoff is slated for 7:00 p.m., with tickets still available at the Giant Center box office or by calling (717) 534-3911.