Four high schools from South Florida went up to the Citrus Bowl at Orlando in early December and won 2014 FHSAA state football championships. It did not match what happened in 2013 in which South Florida schools captured six of the eight classifications.
In the small schools category, the Booker T. Washington Tornadoes went undefeated again as they captured another Class 4A championship with a 54-35 victory over The Bolles School Bulldogs. The Tornadoes were led on offense by running back Mark Walton.
The American Heritage Stallions failed to bring another state championship to Delray Beach as they lost to Trinity Christian 27-7 in the Class 3A title game. They had a well-rounded offense which consisted of running back Devin Singletary, quarterback Warren Robinson along with wide receivers Desmond Cain and Trenard Davis.
South Florida had four representatives in the large school category as they had in 2013. The American Heritage Patriots brought home their second straight Class 5A title to Plantation as they routed Godby 38-0. The Pats had quarterback Torrance Gibson steer the offense and defensive back Tavares McFadden dictate the defense.
The Miami Central Rockets repeated again as Class 6A state champions as they defeated the Armwood Hawks 24-10. It was the third consecutive title for the school who were led by wide receiver Da'vante Phillips.
The St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders returned to the top of the Class 7A mountain when they blanked the Osceola Kowboys 31-0. It was the fifth state title for STA since 2007 and their eighth championship in school history. The strong offense had numerous weapons which included Jordan Scarlett at running back, Jake Rizzo at quarterback along with Devante Peete, Juwuan Harris and Sam Bruce at wide receiver. Defensive end Nicholas Bozo spearheaded the Raiders defense.
The Columbus Explorers were the only local large school to lose in the title game as they were defeated by the Apopka Blue Darters 30-23 in Class 8A. Apopka, who fell to South Dade last year, won their second championship in the past three years.
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Rangers Down Panthers
The New York Rangers made their only appearance this season in Sunrise and defeated the Florida Panthers 5-2 at BB&T Center on Wednesday night. The Blueshirts won for the ninth time in ten games and the 13th time in their last 17. The Cats fell for the second straight game and finished their holiday homestand with a 2-1-1 record.
There was only one goal in the opening period as the Rangers moved ahead 1-0 at 16:42. Martin St. Louis carried the puck back up to the top of the zone and fed Kevin Klein. His slapshot was deflected by Chris Kreider in the slot area.
In the second period, New York(20-11-4) extended their lead just 1:29 into the frame. Carl Hagelin sprinted down the left side into the Panthers zone and set up Ryan McDonaugh for a quick shot which was saved by Al Montoya. Derick Brassard found a half-open net and swept in the rebound.
The Blueshirts gained a three-goal cushion on their first power play at 14:28 as McDonaugh ripped a slapshot from the top of the zone for an unassisted goal.
The shutout was broken by Florida(19-10-9) with 3:22 left in the second. Jonathan Huberdeau picked up a loose puck in his own zone and sent a long lead pass to Tomas Fleischmann at the Rangers blue line. He skated on Henrik Lundqvist and snapped a shot over the blocker for the tally.
The Cats cut the deficit to 3-2 at 7:39 of the third period on the power play. Dave Bolland was on the left wing and connected with Aleksander Barkov in the slot. His short pass to his right was then one-timed by Jimmy Hayes for his 11th goal this season.
The Rangers got up by two goals again at 9:51 when a puck went off the left skate of St. Louis in the crease area and through the legs of Montoya. The play was started by Kreider behind the Panthers cage as he placed a pass to Stepan in the slot for a one-time slapshot. Dominic Moore added an insurance goal with 4:25 left in regulation.
There was only one goal in the opening period as the Rangers moved ahead 1-0 at 16:42. Martin St. Louis carried the puck back up to the top of the zone and fed Kevin Klein. His slapshot was deflected by Chris Kreider in the slot area.
In the second period, New York(20-11-4) extended their lead just 1:29 into the frame. Carl Hagelin sprinted down the left side into the Panthers zone and set up Ryan McDonaugh for a quick shot which was saved by Al Montoya. Derick Brassard found a half-open net and swept in the rebound.
The Blueshirts gained a three-goal cushion on their first power play at 14:28 as McDonaugh ripped a slapshot from the top of the zone for an unassisted goal.
The shutout was broken by Florida(19-10-9) with 3:22 left in the second. Jonathan Huberdeau picked up a loose puck in his own zone and sent a long lead pass to Tomas Fleischmann at the Rangers blue line. He skated on Henrik Lundqvist and snapped a shot over the blocker for the tally.
The Cats cut the deficit to 3-2 at 7:39 of the third period on the power play. Dave Bolland was on the left wing and connected with Aleksander Barkov in the slot. His short pass to his right was then one-timed by Jimmy Hayes for his 11th goal this season.
The Rangers got up by two goals again at 9:51 when a puck went off the left skate of St. Louis in the crease area and through the legs of Montoya. The play was started by Kreider behind the Panthers cage as he placed a pass to Stepan in the slot for a one-time slapshot. Dominic Moore added an insurance goal with 4:25 left in regulation.
Joe Girvan Leaves WPTV
Joe Girvan is leaving his sportscaster post at WPTV-TV Channel 5 in West Palm Beach. He has been a weekend sports anchor at the station for several years. He also worked in an on-air capacity with ESPN West Palm 106.3 WUUB-FM. He will become the new sports director and sports anchor at WBBH-TV and WZVN-TV in Fort Myers.
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Habs Stop Panthers
The Florida Panthers hosted the Montreal Canadiens at BB&T Center on Tuesday night and lost to the Habs 2-1 in a shootout. The Canadiens have won four consecutive games and seven of their last eight while the Cats snapped a two-game winning streak.
It was until almost 39 minutes into the game until one team scored. Montreal(24-11-2) got the tally when Lars Eller gave a short lead pass ahead to Zack Gallagher at the Panthers blue line and he scorched a slapshot from the top right circle by Roberto Luongo with 1:06 left in the second period.
Florida(16-9-9) had to wait until late in the third period to tie the game up. Aaron Ekblad carried the puck into the Canadiens zone on the right side. He slid it to the high slot and Nick Bjugstad buried a snap shot over the left glove of Dustin Tokarski with 1:49 remaining. The Cats outshot the Habs 14-4 in the third period.
The contest went into a shootout and Montreal got the only score on their third attempt as P.A. Parenteau skated between the circles and released a shot over the left glove of Luongo for the victory.
It was until almost 39 minutes into the game until one team scored. Montreal(24-11-2) got the tally when Lars Eller gave a short lead pass ahead to Zack Gallagher at the Panthers blue line and he scorched a slapshot from the top right circle by Roberto Luongo with 1:06 left in the second period.
Florida(16-9-9) had to wait until late in the third period to tie the game up. Aaron Ekblad carried the puck into the Canadiens zone on the right side. He slid it to the high slot and Nick Bjugstad buried a snap shot over the left glove of Dustin Tokarski with 1:49 remaining. The Cats outshot the Habs 14-4 in the third period.
The contest went into a shootout and Montreal got the only score on their third attempt as P.A. Parenteau skated between the circles and released a shot over the left glove of Luongo for the victory.
The Ticket Celebrates Ten Years
790 The Ticket WAXY-AM marked their tenth anniversary back in August as an all-sports radio station. They were known for over a decade prior to their change of programming as a brokered format. They added an FM simulcast for programming at 104.3 The Ticket in August 2012.
The one program that has been there from the beginning in August 2004 and their staple during their ten-year run is the Dan LeBatard Show. It has been led by the longtime Miami Herald sportswriter along with his sidekick Jon Weiner, a.k.a. Stugotz. LeBatard had previous radio broadcasting experience hosting a weekend show on ESPN Radio while Weiner was a producer on Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM and a sports host on Fox Sports Radio 940 WINZ-AM. Marc Hochman, a University of Miami classmate of LeBatard, was the producer and third cog to the program.
The show became nationally syndicated on ESPN Radio as of October 2013. They have outlasted 15 different people who hosted the afternoon show against them on WQAM in a ten-year span.
Several WQAM personnel moved across the street literally to join The Ticket. The first morning show on the station was hosted by Joe Rose and produced by Zach Krantz. Phil Schoen returned to the Miami airwaves as a sports anchor and Jon "Boog" Sciambi hosted a midday show while working for ESPN. Steve Goldstein also came aboard as a weekend host during the NHL lockout for one year. Rose and Krantz came back because WAXY lost the Miami Dolphins radio rights to their main competitor.
Other former WQAM on-air talent have remained at The Ticket. Brian "The Beast" London and Josh Friedman have been elevated to talk show hosts while Joy Taylor is now a morning co-host with Jonathan Zaslow, who has been with WAXY from the beginning.
Many people who started at The Ticket had eventually moved on to WQAM. They included Sid Rosenberg, Jorge Sedano, Marc Hochman, Kevin Rogers, Alex Donno, Brandon Guzio, Andy King, Ed Freeman, Jeff Fox and Steve White.
The one program that has been there from the beginning in August 2004 and their staple during their ten-year run is the Dan LeBatard Show. It has been led by the longtime Miami Herald sportswriter along with his sidekick Jon Weiner, a.k.a. Stugotz. LeBatard had previous radio broadcasting experience hosting a weekend show on ESPN Radio while Weiner was a producer on Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM and a sports host on Fox Sports Radio 940 WINZ-AM. Marc Hochman, a University of Miami classmate of LeBatard, was the producer and third cog to the program.
The show became nationally syndicated on ESPN Radio as of October 2013. They have outlasted 15 different people who hosted the afternoon show against them on WQAM in a ten-year span.
Several WQAM personnel moved across the street literally to join The Ticket. The first morning show on the station was hosted by Joe Rose and produced by Zach Krantz. Phil Schoen returned to the Miami airwaves as a sports anchor and Jon "Boog" Sciambi hosted a midday show while working for ESPN. Steve Goldstein also came aboard as a weekend host during the NHL lockout for one year. Rose and Krantz came back because WAXY lost the Miami Dolphins radio rights to their main competitor.
Other former WQAM on-air talent have remained at The Ticket. Brian "The Beast" London and Josh Friedman have been elevated to talk show hosts while Joy Taylor is now a morning co-host with Jonathan Zaslow, who has been with WAXY from the beginning.
Many people who started at The Ticket had eventually moved on to WQAM. They included Sid Rosenberg, Jorge Sedano, Marc Hochman, Kevin Rogers, Alex Donno, Brandon Guzio, Andy King, Ed Freeman, Jeff Fox and Steve White.
Panthers Come Back On Maple Leafs
The Florida Panthers pulled off a two-goal comeback as they scored four goals in the third period to defeat the Toronto Maple Leafs 6-4 on Sunday at BB&T Center. The Panthers won for the fourth time in five games while the Maple Leafs fell for the fourth time in their last five games.
Florida (16-9-8), who outshot the Leafs 13-3 in the first period, started out with a 19-5 shot advantage until they surrendered the first goal at 6:39 of the second period. Richard Panik skated down the right side and snapped a shot from the right circle dot for a Toronto(20-13-3) 1-0 lead.
The Panthers evened it at 8:24 when Brian Campbell sent a long lead pass to Jonathan Huberdeau at the Maple Leafs blue line. He skated through the left circle and put in a wrist shot from the edge of the crease.
The Cats took their first lead of the game at 10:13 on an odd-man attack as Sean Bergenheim fed a pass from the right wing to Jimmy Hayes in the slot area and he fired a one-time shot by James Riemer.
The Maple Leafs tied it as Joffrey Lupul connected a pass from the right corner to a wide open Roman Polak in front and he lifted a shot over the left glove of Roberto Luongo at 14:16.
Toronto added a power-play tally at 17:30 when Cody Franson centered the puck to James Van Riemsdyk for his 16th goal of the season. The Leafs made it 4-2 with 1:01 in the second as Lupul carried the puck down the left side and sent a backhand pass to the crease where Nazem Kadri rammed in a one-time shot. They were outshot 29-13 after two periods.
The Leafs blew a two-goal lead in the third period as the Cats scored four different times in the final frame. Dmitry Kulikov scored his first goal of the season from right point on a slapshot following a pass from Jussi Jokinen from the right wing 2:45 in the third.
The Panthers tied it 4-4 midway through the period at 10:09. Huberdeau dropped a pass from the right wing to Willie Mitchell, who saved a loose puck from leaving the Toronto zone, at the left point. His wrist shot through traffic found the twine for the Panthers captain.
Florida regained the lead on the power play with 3:15 to go in regulation. Kulikov blasted a top zone shot which was redirected by Brad Boyes in the slot area. Scottie Upshall added an empty net goal with 35 seconds left on assists by Tomas Kopecky and Derek MacKenzie.
Florida (16-9-8), who outshot the Leafs 13-3 in the first period, started out with a 19-5 shot advantage until they surrendered the first goal at 6:39 of the second period. Richard Panik skated down the right side and snapped a shot from the right circle dot for a Toronto(20-13-3) 1-0 lead.
The Panthers evened it at 8:24 when Brian Campbell sent a long lead pass to Jonathan Huberdeau at the Maple Leafs blue line. He skated through the left circle and put in a wrist shot from the edge of the crease.
The Cats took their first lead of the game at 10:13 on an odd-man attack as Sean Bergenheim fed a pass from the right wing to Jimmy Hayes in the slot area and he fired a one-time shot by James Riemer.
The Maple Leafs tied it as Joffrey Lupul connected a pass from the right corner to a wide open Roman Polak in front and he lifted a shot over the left glove of Roberto Luongo at 14:16.
Toronto added a power-play tally at 17:30 when Cody Franson centered the puck to James Van Riemsdyk for his 16th goal of the season. The Leafs made it 4-2 with 1:01 in the second as Lupul carried the puck down the left side and sent a backhand pass to the crease where Nazem Kadri rammed in a one-time shot. They were outshot 29-13 after two periods.
The Leafs blew a two-goal lead in the third period as the Cats scored four different times in the final frame. Dmitry Kulikov scored his first goal of the season from right point on a slapshot following a pass from Jussi Jokinen from the right wing 2:45 in the third.
The Panthers tied it 4-4 midway through the period at 10:09. Huberdeau dropped a pass from the right wing to Willie Mitchell, who saved a loose puck from leaving the Toronto zone, at the left point. His wrist shot through traffic found the twine for the Panthers captain.
Florida regained the lead on the power play with 3:15 to go in regulation. Kulikov blasted a top zone shot which was redirected by Brad Boyes in the slot area. Scottie Upshall added an empty net goal with 35 seconds left on assists by Tomas Kopecky and Derek MacKenzie.
Thursday, December 25, 2014
Heat Top LeBron James And Cavs
After four seasons with the Heat franchise, LeBron James returned to Miami for the first time as the Miami Heat defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 101-91 on Saturday at American Airlines Arena. James, who signed with the Cavs as a free agent in July, helped the Heat to two NBA championships and two Eastern Conference titles.
James led the Cavs with 30 points and eight assists in 40 minutes. Chris Bosh did not dress and was unavailable for the game. The Heat are now 2-6 in their last eight home games and 6-10 overall this season in Miami.
Miami(14-16) began on an 8-2 edge in the first two minutes and led 30-27 after one quarter with Dwyane Wade's 12 points in the frame. The Heat extended their margin up to 17 points at 56-39 with 3:15 left in the second. The Cavaliers trailed 62-49 at halftime as James had 15 points while Wade had 24.
Cleveland(17-11) scored the first eight points of the second half to cut the deficit down to seven points. They scored seven unanswered points late in the third to pull to 73-71 with under two minutes left, however the Heat were up 77-74 after three quarters.
The Cavs got their first lead since their first basket of the game 78-77 just 41 seconds into the fourth quarter with a James slam dunk as he held on to the rim for a technical foul. Miami later went on a 10-1 run to go ahead 90-81 with 4:02 remaining. Cleveland hit six straight points and were behind 90-87, but Miami responded with seven consecutive points to put the game away.
James led the Cavs with 30 points and eight assists in 40 minutes. Chris Bosh did not dress and was unavailable for the game. The Heat are now 2-6 in their last eight home games and 6-10 overall this season in Miami.
Miami(14-16) began on an 8-2 edge in the first two minutes and led 30-27 after one quarter with Dwyane Wade's 12 points in the frame. The Heat extended their margin up to 17 points at 56-39 with 3:15 left in the second. The Cavaliers trailed 62-49 at halftime as James had 15 points while Wade had 24.
Cleveland(17-11) scored the first eight points of the second half to cut the deficit down to seven points. They scored seven unanswered points late in the third to pull to 73-71 with under two minutes left, however the Heat were up 77-74 after three quarters.
The Cavs got their first lead since their first basket of the game 78-77 just 41 seconds into the fourth quarter with a James slam dunk as he held on to the rim for a technical foul. Miami later went on a 10-1 run to go ahead 90-81 with 4:02 remaining. Cleveland hit six straight points and were behind 90-87, but Miami responded with seven consecutive points to put the game away.
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
Miami Ratings December 2014
The Miami/Fort Lauderdale region remained the same for the 16th consecutive month as 104.3 The Ticket WAXY-FM was the top sports format radio station. It was not a good period for all three local stations as all of them dropped in their rating numbers.
The Ticket went from a 1.8 to a 1.6 in December as the station was purchased by Entercom Communications from Lincoln Financial Media during the middle of the ratings period. It seemed that the mediocre start of the season by the Miami Heat in the post LeBron James era has hurt the station.
Although they did not fall further behind from their top competitor, Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM was slightly down from a 1.0 to a 0.9 as they returned to their numbers from two months ago. CBS Corporation closed on their purchase of the station from Beasley Broadcasting at the start of the ratings period. The lackluster ending of the Miami Hurricanes football season did not help.
After two straight months of having an increase in their monthly ratings, Miami Sports 940 WINZ-AM fell from a 0.4 to a 0.3 in December. They still had better ratings this month than they had during their six months with Miami Marlins broadcasts. The audience saw the Miami Dolphins go from a playoff contender to being eliminated in a three-week span.
The Ticket went from a 1.8 to a 1.6 in December as the station was purchased by Entercom Communications from Lincoln Financial Media during the middle of the ratings period. It seemed that the mediocre start of the season by the Miami Heat in the post LeBron James era has hurt the station.
Although they did not fall further behind from their top competitor, Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM was slightly down from a 1.0 to a 0.9 as they returned to their numbers from two months ago. CBS Corporation closed on their purchase of the station from Beasley Broadcasting at the start of the ratings period. The lackluster ending of the Miami Hurricanes football season did not help.
After two straight months of having an increase in their monthly ratings, Miami Sports 940 WINZ-AM fell from a 0.4 to a 0.3 in December. They still had better ratings this month than they had during their six months with Miami Marlins broadcasts. The audience saw the Miami Dolphins go from a playoff contender to being eliminated in a three-week span.
Monday, December 22, 2014
Panthers Ice Down Penguins
The Florida Panthers began a four-game homestand during the holiday season and beat the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3 in a shootout on Monday night at BB&T Center. This was the second game of a home-and-home series between both clubs. The Pens have gone eight games without losing in regulation while the Panthers have picked up at least one point in five of their last six games.
Pittsburgh(22-6-5), who lead the Eastern Conference and Metropolitan Division in points, scored on their second shot of the game at 4:39 of the first period. Sidney Crosby sent a pass from the right wing to Simon Despres on top of the zone and his slapshot was redirected in by Patric Hornqvist in the low slot past Roberto Luongo for his 12th goal this year.
It would take until 36.4 seconds left in the second period for Florida(15-9-8) to even the game. Dave Bolland had the puck in the low left circle and centered it to the middle where Jussi Jokinen snapped a shot from the edge of the left circle by Marc Andre-Fleury.
The Panthers struck again just 22 seconds into the third period to gain a 2-1 margin. Sean Bergenheim placed a lead pass to Jimmy Hayes in the low right circle and he scored on a wrist shot for his eighth goal this season.
Hayes added another tally and extended the Cats lead to 3-1 at 4:57 of the frame. Bergenheim took a backhand from the left of the crease which was saved and Hayes poked in the rebound when the puck was in the blue paint.
The Pens would convert on the power play with 4:52 remaining in the third to pull within one goal. Derrick Pouliot fired a slapshot from the top of the zone through traffic which was deflected in by Nick Spaling in the slot for the goal.
A Panthers turnover deep in their own end was capitalized by Pittsburgh as Evgeni Malkin charged toward the Panthers net from the right icing line and took three shots in the crease area for an unassisted goal with 3:10 to go in regulation. It was his 16th goal this season and 27th career point against the Cats in 27 games.
The game was decided in a shootout as Aleksander Barkov scored in the seventh round for Florida. The Panthers played in an NHL record 20-round shootout in their previous home game last week against Washington.
Pittsburgh(22-6-5), who lead the Eastern Conference and Metropolitan Division in points, scored on their second shot of the game at 4:39 of the first period. Sidney Crosby sent a pass from the right wing to Simon Despres on top of the zone and his slapshot was redirected in by Patric Hornqvist in the low slot past Roberto Luongo for his 12th goal this year.
It would take until 36.4 seconds left in the second period for Florida(15-9-8) to even the game. Dave Bolland had the puck in the low left circle and centered it to the middle where Jussi Jokinen snapped a shot from the edge of the left circle by Marc Andre-Fleury.
The Panthers struck again just 22 seconds into the third period to gain a 2-1 margin. Sean Bergenheim placed a lead pass to Jimmy Hayes in the low right circle and he scored on a wrist shot for his eighth goal this season.
Hayes added another tally and extended the Cats lead to 3-1 at 4:57 of the frame. Bergenheim took a backhand from the left of the crease which was saved and Hayes poked in the rebound when the puck was in the blue paint.
The Pens would convert on the power play with 4:52 remaining in the third to pull within one goal. Derrick Pouliot fired a slapshot from the top of the zone through traffic which was deflected in by Nick Spaling in the slot for the goal.
A Panthers turnover deep in their own end was capitalized by Pittsburgh as Evgeni Malkin charged toward the Panthers net from the right icing line and took three shots in the crease area for an unassisted goal with 3:10 to go in regulation. It was his 16th goal this season and 27th career point against the Cats in 27 games.
The game was decided in a shootout as Aleksander Barkov scored in the seventh round for Florida. The Panthers played in an NHL record 20-round shootout in their previous home game last week against Washington.
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Panthers Slip By Flyers
The Florida Panthers began a two-game swing through Pennsylvania and topped the Philadelphia Flyers 2-1 in a shootout at Wells Fargo Center on Thursday night. The Panthers got their second straight shootout victory following an NHL record 20-round shootout against the Washington Capitals two days ago. The Flyers lost their 10th consecutive shootout game.
Florida(14-8-8) struck first as former Flyer Scottie Upshall scored on a deflection by Steve Mason following a Tomas Kopecky shot on net at 9:37 of the first period. The Panthers outshot the Flyers 12-3 in the first 16 minutes of the game.
Philadelphia(11-14-6) responded in the second period at 4:07. Pierre-Edouard Bellemare sent a forehand pass from behind the Panthers net to the slot area and Jakub Voracek hit a one-time shot by Roberto Luongo. There was no scoring in the third period and overtime.
The Cats scored on their first shootout attempt as Brandon Pirri put in a backhand shot. The Flyers matched it in the third round as Voracek skated in and tallied a goal on a backhand shot through the five-hole. Dave Bolland gave the Panthers the win during the sixth round as he put a shot through the legs of Mason.
Florida(14-8-8) struck first as former Flyer Scottie Upshall scored on a deflection by Steve Mason following a Tomas Kopecky shot on net at 9:37 of the first period. The Panthers outshot the Flyers 12-3 in the first 16 minutes of the game.
Philadelphia(11-14-6) responded in the second period at 4:07. Pierre-Edouard Bellemare sent a forehand pass from behind the Panthers net to the slot area and Jakub Voracek hit a one-time shot by Roberto Luongo. There was no scoring in the third period and overtime.
The Cats scored on their first shootout attempt as Brandon Pirri put in a backhand shot. The Flyers matched it in the third round as Voracek skated in and tallied a goal on a backhand shot through the five-hole. Dave Bolland gave the Panthers the win during the sixth round as he put a shot through the legs of Mason.
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Panthers Win Longest Shootout Ever
Two clubs set an NHL record with a 20 round shootout on Tuesday night as the Florida Panthers beat the Washington Capitals 2-1 at BB&T Center. It broke the record which was set between the Capitals and New York Rangers in November 2005 which went 15 rounds.
After both teams missed on their first three attempts of the shootout, Alex Ovechkin went five-hole for Washington(14-10-6) against Roberto Luongo. Jussi Jokinen matched it for Florida(13-8-8) as he dragged the puck in on a one-handed backhand by Braden Holtby.
Brooks Laich scored for the Caps on their seventh attempt with a backhand shot, but Dave Bolland responded with a wrist shot through the goalie's legs for the Cats.
Both clubs hit the twine in their tenth attempts as Joel Ward snapped a shot over the left glove of Luongo and Derek MacKenzie ripped the puck over the right sholder of Holtby. They also made their 11th attempts when John Carlson sent a wrist shot glove side and Sean Bergenheim put in a backhand shot.
They would score again in the 17th round. Brooks Orpik tallied on a forehand shot and Dylan Olsen went blocker side on a backhand attempt. Both clubs were allowed to have players who were not goalies make shootout attempts for the second time after the 18th round.
Nicklas Backstrom and Ovechkin both failed in their opportunities for the Captials. Jokinen missed on his second occasion, however Nick Bjugstad won the game in the 20th round on a wrist shot.
There were two goals during regulation. Florida scored in the first period at 9:36 to go ahead 1-0. Mike Green's backhand clearing pass from behind the Caps cage deflected off Scottie Upshall and into the slot area. MacKenzie blasted a shot from the edge of the right circle for his third game this season.
The Capitals evened the contest on the power play with 5:25 left in the second period. Ovechkin fed a pass from the left wing to the slot area where Troy Brouwer has his first shot blocked by Willie Mitchell, but he pounced and scored on his second shot.
After both teams missed on their first three attempts of the shootout, Alex Ovechkin went five-hole for Washington(14-10-6) against Roberto Luongo. Jussi Jokinen matched it for Florida(13-8-8) as he dragged the puck in on a one-handed backhand by Braden Holtby.
Brooks Laich scored for the Caps on their seventh attempt with a backhand shot, but Dave Bolland responded with a wrist shot through the goalie's legs for the Cats.
Both clubs hit the twine in their tenth attempts as Joel Ward snapped a shot over the left glove of Luongo and Derek MacKenzie ripped the puck over the right sholder of Holtby. They also made their 11th attempts when John Carlson sent a wrist shot glove side and Sean Bergenheim put in a backhand shot.
They would score again in the 17th round. Brooks Orpik tallied on a forehand shot and Dylan Olsen went blocker side on a backhand attempt. Both clubs were allowed to have players who were not goalies make shootout attempts for the second time after the 18th round.
Nicklas Backstrom and Ovechkin both failed in their opportunities for the Captials. Jokinen missed on his second occasion, however Nick Bjugstad won the game in the 20th round on a wrist shot.
There were two goals during regulation. Florida scored in the first period at 9:36 to go ahead 1-0. Mike Green's backhand clearing pass from behind the Caps cage deflected off Scottie Upshall and into the slot area. MacKenzie blasted a shot from the edge of the right circle for his third game this season.
The Capitals evened the contest on the power play with 5:25 left in the second period. Ovechkin fed a pass from the left wing to the slot area where Troy Brouwer has his first shot blocked by Willie Mitchell, but he pounced and scored on his second shot.
Saturday, December 13, 2014
Panthers Get By Red Wings Again
The Florida Panthers went to Joe Louis Arena for the second time in ten days and defeated the Detroit Red Wings 3-2 in a shootout on Friday night. The Cats won 4-3 back on December 2 in the same place.
Florida(12-8-7) took the shootout as they scored on their only two attempts. Head coach Gerard Gallant changed up the order as he used two young players instead of seasoned veterans who had a good shootout percentage.
After Detroit(17-6-7) missed their first attempt, Vincent Trocheck skated on Jimmy Howard as he put on a couple of fake releases until he slipped the puck in between Howard's left skate and the right post.
The Red Wings failed on their second chance and Brandon Pirri clinched the game as he snapped a shot over the blocker of Howard for the victory.
Florida(12-8-7) took the shootout as they scored on their only two attempts. Head coach Gerard Gallant changed up the order as he used two young players instead of seasoned veterans who had a good shootout percentage.
After Detroit(17-6-7) missed their first attempt, Vincent Trocheck skated on Jimmy Howard as he put on a couple of fake releases until he slipped the puck in between Howard's left skate and the right post.
The Red Wings failed on their second chance and Brandon Pirri clinched the game as he snapped a shot over the blocker of Howard for the victory.
Friday, December 12, 2014
St Thomas Aquinas And Osceola Title Preview
The St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders take on the Osceola Kowboys in the FHSAA Class 7A state championship on Friday night at the Citrus Bowl in Orlando. The Raiders, who have captured seven FHSAA state championships, look to win their fifth state title in the last eight seasons while the Kowboys will try to reach the top the mountain and win a championship for the second time in school history. Both schools met at the Citrus Bowl in the 2007 Class 5A state championship where Aquinas won 35-20.
St. Thomas Aquinas(13-1) will be playing in their eighth state championship game since 2004. STA, who have outscored their last 11 opponents 562-34, has hosted all of their FHSAA playoff games this year. They bashed Mater Academy 57-0 in the regional quarterfinal, topped district rival Plantation 38-6 in the regional semifinal, crushed Royal Palm Beach 52-7 in the regional final and beat East Lake 45-7 in the state semifinal.
The Raiders will split their offense with a balanced amount of rushes and carries. Jordan Scarlett is expected to get more of the carries from the backfield followed by Deltron Sands and Devontae Henry-Cole. The have a number of wide receiver threats with Devante Peete, Sam Bruce, Jawuan Harris and Connor Fee who quarterback Jake Rizzo can throw the ball to.
Osceola(13-1) comes into the title game with a 12-game winning streak following a second week road loss to Lake Mary 29-28. They also hosted all four playoff games on their road to Orlando. The Kowboys dumped Bartow 35-7 in the regional quarterfinal, barely got by longtime playoff rival Lakeland 35-28 in overtime during their regional semifinal, dropped Tampa Bay Tech 35-15 in a regional final and defeated 2013 Class 7A state finalist Niceville 42-14 in the state semifinal.
The Kowboys will run the ball for the entire game and rarely can you see a passing play on offense. Running back Laderrien Wilson is expected to get most of the rushes from the Osceola backfield. It will be a tough task to stop the St. Thomas Aquinas front seven with defensive end Nicholas Bosa as their most recognized defensive player.
St. Thomas Aquinas(13-1) will be playing in their eighth state championship game since 2004. STA, who have outscored their last 11 opponents 562-34, has hosted all of their FHSAA playoff games this year. They bashed Mater Academy 57-0 in the regional quarterfinal, topped district rival Plantation 38-6 in the regional semifinal, crushed Royal Palm Beach 52-7 in the regional final and beat East Lake 45-7 in the state semifinal.
The Raiders will split their offense with a balanced amount of rushes and carries. Jordan Scarlett is expected to get more of the carries from the backfield followed by Deltron Sands and Devontae Henry-Cole. The have a number of wide receiver threats with Devante Peete, Sam Bruce, Jawuan Harris and Connor Fee who quarterback Jake Rizzo can throw the ball to.
Osceola(13-1) comes into the title game with a 12-game winning streak following a second week road loss to Lake Mary 29-28. They also hosted all four playoff games on their road to Orlando. The Kowboys dumped Bartow 35-7 in the regional quarterfinal, barely got by longtime playoff rival Lakeland 35-28 in overtime during their regional semifinal, dropped Tampa Bay Tech 35-15 in a regional final and defeated 2013 Class 7A state finalist Niceville 42-14 in the state semifinal.
The Kowboys will run the ball for the entire game and rarely can you see a passing play on offense. Running back Laderrien Wilson is expected to get most of the rushes from the Osceola backfield. It will be a tough task to stop the St. Thomas Aquinas front seven with defensive end Nicholas Bosa as their most recognized defensive player.
American Heritage And Godby Title Preview
The American Heritage Patriots will look to repeat as FHSAA Class 5A state champions on Friday as they face the Godby Cougars at the Citrus Bowl in Orlando. They dominated the championship game last year when they crushed Clay 66-8.
American Heritage(11-3) had an easier on road to the state championship this year because they hosted all of their playoff games at Heritage Field in Plantation. They had three blowout victories with wins over Immokalee 51-0 in the regional quarterfinal, Lely 43-13 in the regional semifinal and Island Coast 56-8 in the regional final. The Pats got by Bishop Moore 20-17 last week in the state semifinal.
The Patriots have scored at least 30 points in every game this season except for last week's game and an opening game loss to Class 7A state finalist St. Thomas Aquinas 38-7. They had road wins earlier this year against Class 8A state finalist Apopka 30-20 and Class 4A state runner-up Bolles 35-20.
The offense is led by quarterback Torrance Gibson who can be a dual threat as he can throw the ball to anywhere on the field and run it out of the pocket anytime. They will be in trouble if they decide to throw deep passes all of the time like the Patriots did in Delray Beach when they fell to the American Heritage Stallions. Look for them to be more effective with short passes and screen plays.
Gibson will have a strong core of wide receivers to connect with which includes Dredrick Snelson, Brandon Johnson, Janarvis Pough, Blair Barrow, Nick Eubanks and Laress Nelson. Running backs Travis Jackson, Kyshaun Bryan and Shaddrick Lowery will carry the ball from the backfield. Cornerback Tavares McFadden is expected to dictate the defense.
Godby(12-2) has been successful all season except for their opening week loss to Georgia high school Marist 17-14 and a mid-season defeat to eventual Class 3A champion Trinity Christian 28-13. The Cougars currently ride an eight-game winning streak in which they have scored at least 35 points in seven of their last eight games. They have outscored their opponents 522-182 this season.
American Heritage(11-3) had an easier on road to the state championship this year because they hosted all of their playoff games at Heritage Field in Plantation. They had three blowout victories with wins over Immokalee 51-0 in the regional quarterfinal, Lely 43-13 in the regional semifinal and Island Coast 56-8 in the regional final. The Pats got by Bishop Moore 20-17 last week in the state semifinal.
The Patriots have scored at least 30 points in every game this season except for last week's game and an opening game loss to Class 7A state finalist St. Thomas Aquinas 38-7. They had road wins earlier this year against Class 8A state finalist Apopka 30-20 and Class 4A state runner-up Bolles 35-20.
The offense is led by quarterback Torrance Gibson who can be a dual threat as he can throw the ball to anywhere on the field and run it out of the pocket anytime. They will be in trouble if they decide to throw deep passes all of the time like the Patriots did in Delray Beach when they fell to the American Heritage Stallions. Look for them to be more effective with short passes and screen plays.
Gibson will have a strong core of wide receivers to connect with which includes Dredrick Snelson, Brandon Johnson, Janarvis Pough, Blair Barrow, Nick Eubanks and Laress Nelson. Running backs Travis Jackson, Kyshaun Bryan and Shaddrick Lowery will carry the ball from the backfield. Cornerback Tavares McFadden is expected to dictate the defense.
Godby(12-2) has been successful all season except for their opening week loss to Georgia high school Marist 17-14 and a mid-season defeat to eventual Class 3A champion Trinity Christian 28-13. The Cougars currently ride an eight-game winning streak in which they have scored at least 35 points in seven of their last eight games. They have outscored their opponents 522-182 this season.
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Strikers Ownership Adds Ronaldo
The Fort Lauderdale Strikers have added Ronaldo as a minority owner of the North American Soccer League franchise. The club officially changed ownership following the NASL Soccer Bowl 2014 last month as several Brazilian businessmen took over the team.
Ronaldo has been known throughout the world as a forward for the national team of Brazil. He won two FIFA World Cup titles for that nation in 1994 and 2002. He stands second all-time in goals scored for Brazil with 62 behind Pele. Ronaldo once held the record of most World Cup goals with 15 until it was broken by Miroslav Klose of Germany in July at the 2014 World Cup held in Brazil.
He is one of the three players to capture the FIFA World Player of the Year Award on at least three different occasions. The others are Lionel Messi and Zinedine Zidane. Ronaldo also won the Ballon D'or twice in 1997 and 2002 for best soccer player in Europe. He had stints with several renowned European clubs which included PSV, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Real Madrid and A.C. Milan.
Ronaldo has been known throughout the world as a forward for the national team of Brazil. He won two FIFA World Cup titles for that nation in 1994 and 2002. He stands second all-time in goals scored for Brazil with 62 behind Pele. Ronaldo once held the record of most World Cup goals with 15 until it was broken by Miroslav Klose of Germany in July at the 2014 World Cup held in Brazil.
He is one of the three players to capture the FIFA World Player of the Year Award on at least three different occasions. The others are Lionel Messi and Zinedine Zidane. Ronaldo also won the Ballon D'or twice in 1997 and 2002 for best soccer player in Europe. He had stints with several renowned European clubs which included PSV, Barcelona, Inter Milan, Real Madrid and A.C. Milan.
Marlins Make Deals
The Miami Marlins made several trades on Thursday as they continue to built their team. It is the biggest splash the club has made at the Winter Meetings since 2011.
The Marlins pulled off a trade with the National League West champion Los Angeles Dodgers. They picked up middle infielder Dee Gordon, starting pitcher Dan Haren and infielder Miguel Rojas for infielder Enrique Hernandez, catcher Austin Barnes along with pitchers Andrew Heaney and Chris Hatcher. The Dodgers then did a rare crosstown trade as they sent Heaney to the Los Angeles Angeles Angels for second baseman Howie Kendrick.
The Fish also acquired starting pitcher Mat Latos from the Cincinnati Reds for rookie pitcher Anthony Disclafani and catcher Chad Wallach. Latos has been known as a workhorse in the starting rotation for the Reds and the San Diego Padres prior to that. Miami made one more deal as they sent middle reliever Dan Jennings to the Chicago White Sox for a minor league player.
The Marlins pulled off a trade with the National League West champion Los Angeles Dodgers. They picked up middle infielder Dee Gordon, starting pitcher Dan Haren and infielder Miguel Rojas for infielder Enrique Hernandez, catcher Austin Barnes along with pitchers Andrew Heaney and Chris Hatcher. The Dodgers then did a rare crosstown trade as they sent Heaney to the Los Angeles Angeles Angels for second baseman Howie Kendrick.
The Fish also acquired starting pitcher Mat Latos from the Cincinnati Reds for rookie pitcher Anthony Disclafani and catcher Chad Wallach. Latos has been known as a workhorse in the starting rotation for the Reds and the San Diego Padres prior to that. Miami made one more deal as they sent middle reliever Dan Jennings to the Chicago White Sox for a minor league player.
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Blues Edge Panthers
The Florida Panthers began a stretch of five of their next six games on the road as they lost to the St. Louis Blues 4-2 at Scottrade Center on Monday night. The top active goalies in career wins were in net as Roberto Luongo started for the Cats while Martin Brodeur, the all-time leader in wins and shutouts, played in his first home game with his new team. Brodeur improved to 41-16-9 all-time in his career against Florida.
St. Louis(18-8-2) jumped on the Panthers as they tallied two goals in the first period. Maxim Lapierre skated from behind the Florida cage to the right icing line then fired a turnaround shot off the right skate of Vincent Trocheck into the net at 11:17. Ian Cole followed with another goal for the Bluenotes as he ripped a slapshot from the high slot with 2:26 remaining.
The Panthers compiled the only goal of the second period. Nick Bjugstad got his 12th tally of the year on a two-on-one breakaway with 4:39 to go. Tomas Fleischmann and Erik Gudbranson were credited with assists on the play.
In the third period, Florida(11-8-7) was able to tie it 2-2 at 5:06. Aaron Ekblad put in his fifth goal of the season as he snapped a shot from the low right circle.
The Blues would regain the lead late in the third with 1:54 left when Chris Porter deflected a shot in the slot area from a long-range blast by Barret Jackman at the blue line. St. Louis got an empty-net goal with 32 seconds remaining as Paul Stastny scored.
St. Louis(18-8-2) jumped on the Panthers as they tallied two goals in the first period. Maxim Lapierre skated from behind the Florida cage to the right icing line then fired a turnaround shot off the right skate of Vincent Trocheck into the net at 11:17. Ian Cole followed with another goal for the Bluenotes as he ripped a slapshot from the high slot with 2:26 remaining.
The Panthers compiled the only goal of the second period. Nick Bjugstad got his 12th tally of the year on a two-on-one breakaway with 4:39 to go. Tomas Fleischmann and Erik Gudbranson were credited with assists on the play.
In the third period, Florida(11-8-7) was able to tie it 2-2 at 5:06. Aaron Ekblad put in his fifth goal of the season as he snapped a shot from the low right circle.
The Blues would regain the lead late in the third with 1:54 left when Chris Porter deflected a shot in the slot area from a long-range blast by Barret Jackman at the blue line. St. Louis got an empty-net goal with 32 seconds remaining as Paul Stastny scored.
Monday, December 8, 2014
No Local Television For Title Games
The FHSAA football finals at the Citrus Bowl in Orlando will not be broadcast on local television in early December. It is a major disappointment for high school football fans in the South Florida region.
Bright House Sports Network has the exclusive television rights to all eight state championship games. Comcast Sports South did broadcast the games into South Florida last year, however they folded on May 31 and there is no channel that would carry it in 2014. The games will be aired on the Bright House Sports Network website, but you will have to sign in and spend a pay-per-view fee.
The only championship contest this season that was broadcast on local radio was on ESPN 106.3 WUUB-FM and the ESPN West Palm.com website. The FHSAA Class 3A championship game between the American Heritage Stallions and the Trinity Christian Conquerors was aired on Saturday with Ken LaVicka as the play-by-play announcer and Chris Kokell as the game analyst.
The South Florida High School Football Show finished their game broadcast schedule this year on Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM Friday night. It was a Class 7A state semifinal at Brian Piccolo Stadium in Fort Lauderdale where the St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders hosted the East Lake Eagles. It was broadcast by play-by-play announcer Mike Levine and game analyst Wesley Carroll.
Bright House Sports Network has the exclusive television rights to all eight state championship games. Comcast Sports South did broadcast the games into South Florida last year, however they folded on May 31 and there is no channel that would carry it in 2014. The games will be aired on the Bright House Sports Network website, but you will have to sign in and spend a pay-per-view fee.
The only championship contest this season that was broadcast on local radio was on ESPN 106.3 WUUB-FM and the ESPN West Palm.com website. The FHSAA Class 3A championship game between the American Heritage Stallions and the Trinity Christian Conquerors was aired on Saturday with Ken LaVicka as the play-by-play announcer and Chris Kokell as the game analyst.
The South Florida High School Football Show finished their game broadcast schedule this year on Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM Friday night. It was a Class 7A state semifinal at Brian Piccolo Stadium in Fort Lauderdale where the St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders hosted the East Lake Eagles. It was broadcast by play-by-play announcer Mike Levine and game analyst Wesley Carroll.
Entercom Communications Acquires The Ticket
Entercom Communications Corporation has acquired 104.3 The Ticket WAXY-FM and 790 The Ticket WAXY-AM from Lincoln Financial Media. They also picked up WMXJ-FM and WLYF-FM in Miami along with 11 other radio stations in Atlanta, Denver and San Diego. The sale is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2015 following the approval by the Federal Communications Commission.
Lincoln Financial Media has owned all four South Florida stations since April 2006 when they merged as Lincoln Financial Group with Jefferson-Pilot Corporation. 104.3 The Ticket has been on top of the ratings for sports format radio stations in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale region for the last 15 months. 790 The Ticket flipped their format from brokered programming to sports in August 2004. WLYF-FM has appeared near the top of the monthly ratings in the market for over a decade while WMXJ-FM showed up in the top seven over the past four months.
Lincoln Financial Media has owned all four South Florida stations since April 2006 when they merged as Lincoln Financial Group with Jefferson-Pilot Corporation. 104.3 The Ticket has been on top of the ratings for sports format radio stations in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale region for the last 15 months. 790 The Ticket flipped their format from brokered programming to sports in August 2004. WLYF-FM has appeared near the top of the monthly ratings in the market for over a decade while WMXJ-FM showed up in the top seven over the past four months.
Saturday, December 6, 2014
American Heritage Loses State Title
The Trinity Christian Conquerors captured their second straight state title as they got by the American Heritage Stallions 27-7 in the FHSAA Class 3A championship at the Citrus Bowl in Orlando on Saturday. The Stallions were trying to win their fourth state title in the last eight years and are now 1-3 in title games against the Conquerors.
Things started out in the worst way for American Heritage(11-2) when quarterback Warren Robinson was injured on the second play of the game. He would not return until 5:20 left in the second quarter. The Stallions were held on offense and did not get a first down until 5:11 to go in the first half.
The first score was set up when Alex Sinkfeld fumbled on a punt return and recovered by Trinity Christian deep in Stallions territory. Backup quarterback Kevin Toliver went untouched with a 16-yard touchdown run on the first play of the drive with 1:43 left in the second quarter for a 7-0 lead.
Trinity Christian(11-2) extended their lead to 14-0 with 5:57 left in the third quarter. Running back Chris Barr exploded with an 82-yard touchdown run on their longest play from scrimmage.
The Conquerors made it 21-0 when running back Rasheed Martin rushed up the middle for a one-yard touchdown with 7:55 left in the fourth quarter. They pulled off an 87-yard drive on all running plays.
American Heritage made sure that they were not shut out in the final seconds of the game. The Stallions scored with one second remaining on an option play to the left side as backup running back Bryce Hill got into the end zone from three yards out.
Things started out in the worst way for American Heritage(11-2) when quarterback Warren Robinson was injured on the second play of the game. He would not return until 5:20 left in the second quarter. The Stallions were held on offense and did not get a first down until 5:11 to go in the first half.
The first score was set up when Alex Sinkfeld fumbled on a punt return and recovered by Trinity Christian deep in Stallions territory. Backup quarterback Kevin Toliver went untouched with a 16-yard touchdown run on the first play of the drive with 1:43 left in the second quarter for a 7-0 lead.
Trinity Christian(11-2) extended their lead to 14-0 with 5:57 left in the third quarter. Running back Chris Barr exploded with an 82-yard touchdown run on their longest play from scrimmage.
The Conquerors made it 21-0 when running back Rasheed Martin rushed up the middle for a one-yard touchdown with 7:55 left in the fourth quarter. They pulled off an 87-yard drive on all running plays.
American Heritage made sure that they were not shut out in the final seconds of the game. The Stallions scored with one second remaining on an option play to the left side as backup running back Bryce Hill got into the end zone from three yards out.
American Heritage And Trinity Christian Title Preview
The American Heritage Stallions will be going for their fourth state title in the last eight years on Saturday as they face the defending champion Trinity Christian for the FHSAA Class 3A championship at the Citrus Bowl in Orlando.
American Heritage(11-1) last won a state championship in 2011. They lost the first game of the season at home against Miramar 14-7and are currently on an 11-game winning streak. The Stallions had impressive victories during the season against defending Class 5A champion American Heritage-Plantation, East Lee County and Heritage.
They have scored at least 38 points in a game nine times this season and have outscored their opponents 503-178 in 2014. American Heritage pounded Chaminade-Madonna 58-21 at home in the regional semifinal, beat Westminster Christian 23-7 in the regional final and stomped Clearwater Central Catholic 63-13 in the state semifinal.
The Stallions have a balanced attack on offense. Running back Devin Singletary will get the bulk of the carries from the backfield. D.J. Davis and Alex Sinkfeld are expected to get additional rushing attempts. Quarterback Warren Robinson is a duel threat who can run out of the pocket and pass the ball. Wide receivers Trenard Davis, Desmond Cain, and Christian Bingo are the main targets for Robinson to connect with.
American Heritage(11-1) last won a state championship in 2011. They lost the first game of the season at home against Miramar 14-7and are currently on an 11-game winning streak. The Stallions had impressive victories during the season against defending Class 5A champion American Heritage-Plantation, East Lee County and Heritage.
They have scored at least 38 points in a game nine times this season and have outscored their opponents 503-178 in 2014. American Heritage pounded Chaminade-Madonna 58-21 at home in the regional semifinal, beat Westminster Christian 23-7 in the regional final and stomped Clearwater Central Catholic 63-13 in the state semifinal.
The Stallions have a balanced attack on offense. Running back Devin Singletary will get the bulk of the carries from the backfield. D.J. Davis and Alex Sinkfeld are expected to get additional rushing attempts. Quarterback Warren Robinson is a duel threat who can run out of the pocket and pass the ball. Wide receivers Trenard Davis, Desmond Cain, and Christian Bingo are the main targets for Robinson to connect with.
Friday, December 5, 2014
St Thomas Aquinas Destroy East Lake
The St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders returned to the state championship game for the eight time in the last 11 seasons as they clobbered the East Lake Eagles 45-7 in a Class 7A state semifinal on Friday night at Brian Piccolo Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. The Raiders will take on the Osceola Kowboys in the FHSAA Class 7A state championship next Friday night at the Citrus Bowl in Orlando.
East Lake(13-1) lost for the second consecutive year in the state semifinal. They fell at home in 2013 to the Dwyer Panthers, who eventually captured the Class 7A title.
After scoring 45 unanswered points against the Royal Palm Beach Wildcats in the regional final last week, St. Thomas Aquinas(13-1) would repeat the feat as they put up the first 38 points on the scoreboard against the Eagles.
Special teams became an important factor for Aquinas in the first half as three long punt returns by James Oliphant set up touchdowns for the Raiders. His first punt return in the first quarter was 40 yards to the Eagles 18-yard line. Three plays later, running back Jordan Scarlett raced around the right side of the line and scored from three yards away at 7:30 for a 7-0 lead. Zachary Cicero converted on a 31-yard field goal with 29 seconds left in the first for a Raiders ten-point gap.
In the second quarter, Oliphant took a 50-yard punt return to the East Lake 37. Running back Deltron Sands finished the drive with a touchdown run through the right side from four yards out with 9:19 remaining to make it 17-0. Oliphant would set their next possession with a 43-yard punt return to the Eagles 30. Quarterback Jake Rizzo capped it with a five-yard pass into the right corner of the end zone to Sands with 3:32 to go in the first half for a St. Thomas Aquinas 24-point cushion.
The Raiders made it 31-0 at 7:05 of the third quarter when Rizzo faked a handoff to Scarlett and carried the ball toward the right sideline for a 20-yard score. STA extended their lead to 38-0 with 2:04 left in the third as wide receiver Sam Bruce caught a pass in the middle from Rizzo and dashed in from 20 yards out. A running clock would be used for the remainder of the game following that scoring play.
East Lake broke the shutout at the nine-minute mark of the fourth quarter. Quarterback Jake Hudson found wide receiver Bryce Miller on the right sideline at midfield, he avoided several tacklers and finished a 68-yard pass play.
St. Thomas Aquinas put in one more touchdown before time expired and increased their lead to 45-7 as running back Devontae Henry-Cole rumbled in on a 44-yard run with 1:05 to go.
East Lake(13-1) lost for the second consecutive year in the state semifinal. They fell at home in 2013 to the Dwyer Panthers, who eventually captured the Class 7A title.
After scoring 45 unanswered points against the Royal Palm Beach Wildcats in the regional final last week, St. Thomas Aquinas(13-1) would repeat the feat as they put up the first 38 points on the scoreboard against the Eagles.
Special teams became an important factor for Aquinas in the first half as three long punt returns by James Oliphant set up touchdowns for the Raiders. His first punt return in the first quarter was 40 yards to the Eagles 18-yard line. Three plays later, running back Jordan Scarlett raced around the right side of the line and scored from three yards away at 7:30 for a 7-0 lead. Zachary Cicero converted on a 31-yard field goal with 29 seconds left in the first for a Raiders ten-point gap.
In the second quarter, Oliphant took a 50-yard punt return to the East Lake 37. Running back Deltron Sands finished the drive with a touchdown run through the right side from four yards out with 9:19 remaining to make it 17-0. Oliphant would set their next possession with a 43-yard punt return to the Eagles 30. Quarterback Jake Rizzo capped it with a five-yard pass into the right corner of the end zone to Sands with 3:32 to go in the first half for a St. Thomas Aquinas 24-point cushion.
The Raiders made it 31-0 at 7:05 of the third quarter when Rizzo faked a handoff to Scarlett and carried the ball toward the right sideline for a 20-yard score. STA extended their lead to 38-0 with 2:04 left in the third as wide receiver Sam Bruce caught a pass in the middle from Rizzo and dashed in from 20 yards out. A running clock would be used for the remainder of the game following that scoring play.
East Lake broke the shutout at the nine-minute mark of the fourth quarter. Quarterback Jake Hudson found wide receiver Bryce Miller on the right sideline at midfield, he avoided several tacklers and finished a 68-yard pass play.
St. Thomas Aquinas put in one more touchdown before time expired and increased their lead to 45-7 as running back Devontae Henry-Cole rumbled in on a 44-yard run with 1:05 to go.
East Lake At St Thomas Aquinas Preview
The St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders host the East Lake Eagles in a Class 7A state semifinal at Brian Piccolo Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on Friday night. The school that has won the southern bracket in the second highest FHSAA classification went on to win the state championship every year since 2010.
St. Thomas Aquinas(12-1) looks to make the championship game for the eighth time in the last 11 seasons as they have won the state semifinal in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2012. Aquinas has outscored their last ten opponents 517-27. STA has been at home for every round of the FHSAA playoffs. They crushed Mater Academy 57-0 in the regional quarterfinal, beat district rival Plantation 38-6 in the regional semifinal and easily handled Royal Palm Beach 52-7 in the regional final.
The Raiders have an offensive attack that is very balanced. Running back Jordan Scarlett is the main rushing threat for the team as he will get most of the carries. Deltron Sands, Khambrel St. Hubert and Devonte Henry-Cole can also carry the ball from the backfield. Quarterback Jake Rizzo looks to connect with a number of options at wide receiver with Davante Peete, Jawuan Harris and Sam Bruce.
Undefeated East Lake(13-0) was in the same situation last year when they lost at home to eventual FHSAA Class 7A champion Dwyer and look to redeem themselves in 2014. They have scored at least 33 points in ten games and have outscored their opponents 470-138 this season. The Eagles dropped Palmetto 24-3 in the regional quarterfinal, went on the road to beat Braden River 37-21 in the regional semifinal and returned home to defeat Fort Myers 40-7 in the regional final.
The Eagles had no quarterback battle like they did in 2013 as Jake Hudson has led their offense with a great passing attack. Even though East Lake lost Clemson bound Artavis Scott to graduation, they remain strong at wide receiver with George Campbell who can get open at any time.
St. Thomas Aquinas(12-1) looks to make the championship game for the eighth time in the last 11 seasons as they have won the state semifinal in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2012. Aquinas has outscored their last ten opponents 517-27. STA has been at home for every round of the FHSAA playoffs. They crushed Mater Academy 57-0 in the regional quarterfinal, beat district rival Plantation 38-6 in the regional semifinal and easily handled Royal Palm Beach 52-7 in the regional final.
The Raiders have an offensive attack that is very balanced. Running back Jordan Scarlett is the main rushing threat for the team as he will get most of the carries. Deltron Sands, Khambrel St. Hubert and Devonte Henry-Cole can also carry the ball from the backfield. Quarterback Jake Rizzo looks to connect with a number of options at wide receiver with Davante Peete, Jawuan Harris and Sam Bruce.
Undefeated East Lake(13-0) was in the same situation last year when they lost at home to eventual FHSAA Class 7A champion Dwyer and look to redeem themselves in 2014. They have scored at least 33 points in ten games and have outscored their opponents 470-138 this season. The Eagles dropped Palmetto 24-3 in the regional quarterfinal, went on the road to beat Braden River 37-21 in the regional semifinal and returned home to defeat Fort Myers 40-7 in the regional final.
The Eagles had no quarterback battle like they did in 2013 as Jake Hudson has led their offense with a great passing attack. Even though East Lake lost Clemson bound Artavis Scott to graduation, they remain strong at wide receiver with George Campbell who can get open at any time.
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Kim Bokamper To Leave WFOR
Longtime WFOR-TV Channel 4 sportscaster Kim Bokamper will retire from the television station at the end of January. He has been employed there since 1998 as a sports anchor and sports reporter. Bokamper once played for the Miami Dolphins as a linebacker and defensive end from 1977 until 1985 and led the team to two AFC titles in 1982 and 1984.
He is currently with the Miami Dolphins Radio Network as a sideline reporter and a panelist on The Finsiders afternoon show at Miami Sports 940 WINZ-AM. Bokamper got his start in radio on Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM as a fill-in host. He eventually was promoted to the early evening spot and later teamed up with local disc jockey Kenny Walker for a morning program called The Kenny and Bo Show from 2006 until 2007.
Bokamper had a prior stint in local television on Fox Sports Net Florida. He was part of Miccosukee Sports Rap where he co-hosted the show with Joe Rose and Steve Goldstein. Bokamper was also the producer and show owner of that program.
He is currently with the Miami Dolphins Radio Network as a sideline reporter and a panelist on The Finsiders afternoon show at Miami Sports 940 WINZ-AM. Bokamper got his start in radio on Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM as a fill-in host. He eventually was promoted to the early evening spot and later teamed up with local disc jockey Kenny Walker for a morning program called The Kenny and Bo Show from 2006 until 2007.
Bokamper had a prior stint in local television on Fox Sports Net Florida. He was part of Miccosukee Sports Rap where he co-hosted the show with Joe Rose and Steve Goldstein. Bokamper was also the producer and show owner of that program.
Panthers Short On Comeback
Even with a season-high 55 shots on goal, the Florida Panthers lost to the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-3 in a shootout on Thursday night at BB&T Center. The Cats fell to the Jackets by one goal three days ago in Columbus.
The first period seemed like a blitz by Columbus(8-15-2) when they scored twice and held the Panthers to no shots in the first seven minutes. The Blue Jackets got ahead 1:07 into the period as Nick Foligno scored his 11th goal of the year on a wraparound shot following a Scott Hartnell shot from the low right circle.
Cam Atkinson made it 2-0 at 9:51 as he raced down the ice for a loose puck, picked it up at the top of the Panthers defensive zone and ripped a shot over the left glove of Roberto Luongo.
Columbus got two shots in the first minute of the second and extended their margin to 3-0 when they scored 51 seconds into the frame. Boone Jenner pounced on a rebound and put in a tally on a backhand shot from the low slot.
The rest of the period would belong to Florida(10-7-7) as they took the next 13 shots and overcame a 3-0 deficit. The line comprised of Nick Bjugstad, Jonathan Huberdeau and Tomas Fleischmann scored three times in less than five minutes.
Bjugstad connected with Huberdeau and he sent a pass across to Fleischmann who snapped a shot over the left shoulder of Sergei Bobrovsky at 2:54.
The Cats closed the gap to 3-2 at 5:04 of the stanza. Fleischmann sent a backhand cross-ice pass from the right wing to Bjugstad and he put a soft backhand shot from the left circle through the five-hole of the goalie.
Florida added another goal at 7:34 on the power play to tie the contest. Huberdeau was on the left wing and passed down low to Bjugstad on the icing line and he roofed a shot from an acute angle for his second goal of the game and tenth goal this season. The Blue Jackets were outshot 19-1 in the final 19 minutes of the second period.
There was no scoring in the third period and overtime, although the Panthers outshot their opponent 18-4 in the third. Columbus converted on their fourth attempt in the shootout as Ryan Johansen put a forehand shot over Luongo's blocker for the victory.
The first period seemed like a blitz by Columbus(8-15-2) when they scored twice and held the Panthers to no shots in the first seven minutes. The Blue Jackets got ahead 1:07 into the period as Nick Foligno scored his 11th goal of the year on a wraparound shot following a Scott Hartnell shot from the low right circle.
Cam Atkinson made it 2-0 at 9:51 as he raced down the ice for a loose puck, picked it up at the top of the Panthers defensive zone and ripped a shot over the left glove of Roberto Luongo.
Columbus got two shots in the first minute of the second and extended their margin to 3-0 when they scored 51 seconds into the frame. Boone Jenner pounced on a rebound and put in a tally on a backhand shot from the low slot.
The rest of the period would belong to Florida(10-7-7) as they took the next 13 shots and overcame a 3-0 deficit. The line comprised of Nick Bjugstad, Jonathan Huberdeau and Tomas Fleischmann scored three times in less than five minutes.
Bjugstad connected with Huberdeau and he sent a pass across to Fleischmann who snapped a shot over the left shoulder of Sergei Bobrovsky at 2:54.
The Cats closed the gap to 3-2 at 5:04 of the stanza. Fleischmann sent a backhand cross-ice pass from the right wing to Bjugstad and he put a soft backhand shot from the left circle through the five-hole of the goalie.
Florida added another goal at 7:34 on the power play to tie the contest. Huberdeau was on the left wing and passed down low to Bjugstad on the icing line and he roofed a shot from an acute angle for his second goal of the game and tenth goal this season. The Blue Jackets were outshot 19-1 in the final 19 minutes of the second period.
There was no scoring in the third period and overtime, although the Panthers outshot their opponent 18-4 in the third. Columbus converted on their fourth attempt in the shootout as Ryan Johansen put a forehand shot over Luongo's blocker for the victory.
Craig Minervini In For Randy Moller
Craig Minervini will fill in for Randy Moller as the radio play-by-play announcer for the game between the Florida Panthers and Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday night. He was the Panthers studio host on Fox Sports Florida from September 2003 until April 2012.
Minervini had been used as a backup radio play-by-play announcer by the Panthers from 2004 to 2007 when Dave Strader had to work a nationally televised game on Versus or NBC. He last announced an NHL game for the New York Islanders back in January 2010 on MSG Plus when he replaced Howie Rose.
Minervini had been used as a backup radio play-by-play announcer by the Panthers from 2004 to 2007 when Dave Strader had to work a nationally televised game on Versus or NBC. He last announced an NHL game for the New York Islanders back in January 2010 on MSG Plus when he replaced Howie Rose.
Wednesday, December 3, 2014
Hawks Drop On Heat
The Miami Heat faced a divisional opponent at American Airlines Arena on Wednesday night as they fell to the Atlanta Hawks 112-102. The Heat, who have lost three of their last four games, will now begin a long nine-day, five-game road trip.
Miami(9-9) were left behind early in the game and trailed 27-18 after one quarter. Atlanta(11-6) extended their margin up to 45-31 and then the Heat went on a 16-4 spurt to pull within two points. The Hawks scored the final six points of the quarter to lead 55-47 at halftime. Dwyane Wade dropped in ten points during the second quarter after no points in the first.
The Hawks stayed ahead as they led 88-72 after three quarters. Miami was able to cut the deficit down to ten points at 92-82 with 8:32 left and never got any closer.
Chris Bosh had a team-high 27 points and 11 rebounds in 38 minutes to compile a double-double for the Heat. Mario Chalmers put together a double-double with 19 points and 11 assists while Wade drained in 28 points with seven assists.
Jeff Teague had a team-high 27 points and six assists for Atlanta. Kyle Korver sunk 18 and Paul Millsap scored 14. Both of them shared a team-high six rebounds each.
Miami(9-9) were left behind early in the game and trailed 27-18 after one quarter. Atlanta(11-6) extended their margin up to 45-31 and then the Heat went on a 16-4 spurt to pull within two points. The Hawks scored the final six points of the quarter to lead 55-47 at halftime. Dwyane Wade dropped in ten points during the second quarter after no points in the first.
The Hawks stayed ahead as they led 88-72 after three quarters. Miami was able to cut the deficit down to ten points at 92-82 with 8:32 left and never got any closer.
Chris Bosh had a team-high 27 points and 11 rebounds in 38 minutes to compile a double-double for the Heat. Mario Chalmers put together a double-double with 19 points and 11 assists while Wade drained in 28 points with seven assists.
Jeff Teague had a team-high 27 points and six assists for Atlanta. Kyle Korver sunk 18 and Paul Millsap scored 14. Both of them shared a team-high six rebounds each.
Tuesday, December 2, 2014
Panthers Fly Over Red Wings
The Florida Panthers finished their short two-game road trip on Tuesday night as they beat the Detroit Red Wings 4-3 at Joe Louis Arena. The Cats are now 3-1-1 in their last five games in Detroit after they were 1-5-3 in their previous nine visits to Hockeytown. Both teams will face each other again in the same location ten days from now.
Detroit(14-6-5) got to score on their first power play with 13:13 left in the first period. Former Panther Stephen Weiss passed the puck to Pavel Datsyuk at the top right circle. His shot was redirected in mid-air by Tomas Tatar by Roberto Luongo for his tenth goal this year as they pulled ahead 1-0.
The Panthers tied it up with 4:49 to go in the first. Vincent Trocheck took a shot from the slot area which was saved by Jimmy Howard. Jimmy Hayes flipped the puck from the crease over him for his sixth goal this season.
In the second period, Sean Bergenheim gave Florida(10-7-6) their first lead of the contest at 12:21 on a Red Wings giveaway in their own defensive zone. Brad Boyes carried the puck through the low right circle and send a cross-ice pass to Jussi Jokinen in the low left circle. He found Bergenheim in the slot and he blasted a one-time slapshot into an open cage.
The Cats extended their margin to 3-1 just 27 seconds into the third period. Hayes stole the puck from Brendan Smith between the circles in the Detroit zone and Trocheck faked then fired a shot from the high crease.
Florida moved ahead 4-1 at the eight-minute mark as Aaron Ekblad blasted a slapshot from the top of the zone through traffic following a feed from Jonathan Huberdeau from the left wing. It was his second straight game with a goal and his fourth tally this season for the rookie.
The Red Wings would not go down easily as they closed the gap to 4-2 with 10:28 remaining. After close range shots by Tomas Jurco from the left circle dot and Jacub Kindl from the doorstep, Datsyuk lifted the puck from the low left circle for his tenth goal this year.
Gustav Nyquist made it a one-goal game with 58.7 seconds left as Detroit had an extra attacker on the ice. Henrik Zettenberg threw in the initial shot with a backhand from right corner that was deflected by Johan Frazen in front and Nyquist buried in the rebound at the edge of the left circle for his 12th goal.
Detroit(14-6-5) got to score on their first power play with 13:13 left in the first period. Former Panther Stephen Weiss passed the puck to Pavel Datsyuk at the top right circle. His shot was redirected in mid-air by Tomas Tatar by Roberto Luongo for his tenth goal this year as they pulled ahead 1-0.
The Panthers tied it up with 4:49 to go in the first. Vincent Trocheck took a shot from the slot area which was saved by Jimmy Howard. Jimmy Hayes flipped the puck from the crease over him for his sixth goal this season.
In the second period, Sean Bergenheim gave Florida(10-7-6) their first lead of the contest at 12:21 on a Red Wings giveaway in their own defensive zone. Brad Boyes carried the puck through the low right circle and send a cross-ice pass to Jussi Jokinen in the low left circle. He found Bergenheim in the slot and he blasted a one-time slapshot into an open cage.
The Cats extended their margin to 3-1 just 27 seconds into the third period. Hayes stole the puck from Brendan Smith between the circles in the Detroit zone and Trocheck faked then fired a shot from the high crease.
Florida moved ahead 4-1 at the eight-minute mark as Aaron Ekblad blasted a slapshot from the top of the zone through traffic following a feed from Jonathan Huberdeau from the left wing. It was his second straight game with a goal and his fourth tally this season for the rookie.
The Red Wings would not go down easily as they closed the gap to 4-2 with 10:28 remaining. After close range shots by Tomas Jurco from the left circle dot and Jacub Kindl from the doorstep, Datsyuk lifted the puck from the low left circle for his tenth goal this year.
Gustav Nyquist made it a one-goal game with 58.7 seconds left as Detroit had an extra attacker on the ice. Henrik Zettenberg threw in the initial shot with a backhand from right corner that was deflected by Johan Frazen in front and Nyquist buried in the rebound at the edge of the left circle for his 12th goal.
Blue Jackets Skate By Panthers
The Florida Panthers began a short two-day, two-game trip on Monday night in Columbus and lost to the Blue Jackets 2-1 at Nationwide Arena. The Cats had their two-game win streak snapped. Both teams will meet again on Thursday night in Sunrise.
Columbus(7-15-2) had just one shot on goal in the first 15 minutes of the game. They scored on their second shot with 4:53 left in the first period. Michael Chaput fed the puck from the right corner to in front where Matt Calvert went around Al Montoya with a backhand shot for a 1-0 lead.
Florida(9-7-6) scored their only goal on the power play at 1:23 of the second period to tie the game. Aaron Ekblad took a slapshot from the top of the zone which went off defenseman Jack Johnson and by Sergei Bobrovsky.
The Blue Jackets regained the lead midway through the third period on a Panthers turnover. Kerby Rychel sent a spin-around wrist shot on net from the slot area which was saved, but Boone Jenner scored on the rebound with a backhand shot in the crease area at 10:05.
Columbus(7-15-2) had just one shot on goal in the first 15 minutes of the game. They scored on their second shot with 4:53 left in the first period. Michael Chaput fed the puck from the right corner to in front where Matt Calvert went around Al Montoya with a backhand shot for a 1-0 lead.
Florida(9-7-6) scored their only goal on the power play at 1:23 of the second period to tie the game. Aaron Ekblad took a slapshot from the top of the zone which went off defenseman Jack Johnson and by Sergei Bobrovsky.
The Blue Jackets regained the lead midway through the third period on a Panthers turnover. Kerby Rychel sent a spin-around wrist shot on net from the slot area which was saved, but Boone Jenner scored on the rebound with a backhand shot in the crease area at 10:05.
Monday, December 1, 2014
CBS Radio New WQAM Owner
CBS Corporation and CBS Radio completed their deal to purchase three local radio stations from Beasley Broadcasting on Sunday and became the new owner of Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM. They also acquired WPOW-FM and WKIS-FM in the 19-station exchange between both corporations. Beasley Broadcasting had owned WQAM since 1996 when they purchased the station from Sunshine Wireless Company.
All three radio stations have been added to the CBS Miami.com website. There have been no changes of on-air personnel or behind the scenes employees as their weekday lineup of shows have remained the same. Page Q Sports run by Josh Baumgard has been merged into the Man Cave Daily website in New York while South Florida High School Sports with longtime writer Larry Blustein is now a CBS Miami property.
All three radio stations have been added to the CBS Miami.com website. There have been no changes of on-air personnel or behind the scenes employees as their weekday lineup of shows have remained the same. Page Q Sports run by Josh Baumgard has been merged into the Man Cave Daily website in New York while South Florida High School Sports with longtime writer Larry Blustein is now a CBS Miami property.
Wade Back As Heat Top Knicks
Dwyane Wade returned to the lineup for the first time in eight games as the Miami Heat dropped the New York Knicks 86-79 at Madison Square Garden on Sunday night. The Heat held on to the lead throughout the entire ballgame and have won three of their last four games. The Knicks have lost four straight and 13 of their last 15.
Wade led Miami(9-7) with 27 points and had 14 points in the fourth quarter. Chris Bosh fell short of a double-double with 20 points and nine rebounds while Luol Deng compiled a double-double of ten points and ten rebounds.
Carmelo Anthony had a game-high 31 points for New York(4-14) along with eight rebounds in 41 minutes of play. Amar'e Stoudemire came off the Knicks bench and garnered 19 points with 12 rebounds.
Wade led Miami(9-7) with 27 points and had 14 points in the fourth quarter. Chris Bosh fell short of a double-double with 20 points and nine rebounds while Luol Deng compiled a double-double of ten points and ten rebounds.
Carmelo Anthony had a game-high 31 points for New York(4-14) along with eight rebounds in 41 minutes of play. Amar'e Stoudemire came off the Knicks bench and garnered 19 points with 12 rebounds.
Saturday, November 29, 2014
Panthers Come Back On Senators
The Florida Panthers were able to get two goals in the third period and came back to beat the Ottawa Senators 3-2 on Friday night at BB&T Center. The Cats have won two straight, tied Ottawa for ninth place in the Eastern Conference and stand one point behind the Toronto Maple Leafs for the final playoff spot.
Ottawa(10-8-4) scored first at 5:04 of the first period as Chris O'Neil put in the loose puck from the crease. Dylan Olsen matched it 47 seconds later for his first goal of the season as he took a shot from long range through traffic. The Sens regained the lead with the only goal of the second period at 2:41 as Cody Ceci scored his first in the campaign.
The third period belonged to Florida(9-6-6) as they evened the contest 34 seconds into the frame. Brad Boyes had the puck in the left corner and backhanded a pass to Sean Bergenheim at the left circle dot and blasted a slapshot over the right shoulder of Craig Anderson. It was the third tally this year for Bergenheim.
The Panthers got a 3-2 lead at 7:31 of the third. Vincent Trocheck carried the puck through the left circle a one-handed a pass to the crease area. Jimmy Hayes smacked it in from close range for his fifth goal of the season to give the Cats their first lead of the game. The Panthers outshot the Senators 18-4 in the third and 46-24 overall.
Ottawa(10-8-4) scored first at 5:04 of the first period as Chris O'Neil put in the loose puck from the crease. Dylan Olsen matched it 47 seconds later for his first goal of the season as he took a shot from long range through traffic. The Sens regained the lead with the only goal of the second period at 2:41 as Cody Ceci scored his first in the campaign.
The third period belonged to Florida(9-6-6) as they evened the contest 34 seconds into the frame. Brad Boyes had the puck in the left corner and backhanded a pass to Sean Bergenheim at the left circle dot and blasted a slapshot over the right shoulder of Craig Anderson. It was the third tally this year for Bergenheim.
The Panthers got a 3-2 lead at 7:31 of the third. Vincent Trocheck carried the puck through the left circle a one-handed a pass to the crease area. Jimmy Hayes smacked it in from close range for his fifth goal of the season to give the Cats their first lead of the game. The Panthers outshot the Senators 18-4 in the third and 46-24 overall.
St Thomas Aquinas Pounds Royal Palm Beach
The St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders had no problems in their 52-7 rout over the Royal Palm Beach Wildcats in a Class 7A regional final at Brian Piccolo Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on Friday night. They will host East Lake, who was a state semifinalist in 2013 and defeated Fort Myers 40-7, next week.
STA was eliminated in the same round last year when they lost on the road to eventual FHSAA Class 7A champion Dwyer. The Wildcats still have not won a regional final game in their school's history.
Royal Palm Beach(11-2) showed signs of being nervous in the first half on the big stage. Things began to break apart for them on the third play of their opening drive. Quarterback Toddy Centeio fumbled the ball on a run and it was recovered by defensive end Nicholas Bosa.
Two plays later, running back Jordan Scarlett ripped through the right side for a 24-yard touchdown run just 49 seconds into the game to give St. Thomas Aquinas(12-1) a 7-0 margin.
The Wildcats had to punt on their next possession. James Oliphant bobbled the catch, picked up the ball and ran it 74 yards for a score at 9:10. However, it was negated due to a holding penalty.
That did not stop the Raiders as Scarlett would rush through the middle, avoided several tacklers downfield, cut back to the right side and scored from 55 yards away to give Aquinas a 14-point cushion.
RPB had their best opportunity to score in the first half on their next possession. They had a 4th-and-3 from the Raiders 10 when Centeio threw a dump pass to the right side toward the first down marker, but wide receiver Da'von Brown dropped the ball to end the drive. Aquinas responded on their next drive as they capped it off on a 42-yard field goal by Christopher Kirtley with 14 seconds left in the first quarter for a 17-0 lead.
In the second quarter, St. Thomas Aquinas regained the ball when defensive back Rashard Causey intercepted a pass and returned it 57 yards to the Wildcats five-yard line. Quarterback Jake Rizzo would score from one yard out two plays later as he went up the middle on a sneak to make it 24-0 at 8:39.
Running back Deltron Sands added to the rout with 4:44 remaining in the first half with a carry around the left end and down the sideline from 12 yards away. He had a 92-yard touchdown run not allowed earlier in the quarter due to a holding penalty downfield.
St. Thomas Aquinas poured it on in the last couple of minutes of the first half. Scarlett made it 38-0 with 2:01 remaining in the second quarter on a two-yard burst up the middle. Defensive back Claudeny Jeudy would intercept a screen pass to the left side on the Wildcats next drive. The Raiders struck again on the next play when Rizzo connected with wide receiver Jawuan Harris on a 36-yard reception and extended their lead to 45-0 with 21 seconds to go.
STA was eliminated in the same round last year when they lost on the road to eventual FHSAA Class 7A champion Dwyer. The Wildcats still have not won a regional final game in their school's history.
Royal Palm Beach(11-2) showed signs of being nervous in the first half on the big stage. Things began to break apart for them on the third play of their opening drive. Quarterback Toddy Centeio fumbled the ball on a run and it was recovered by defensive end Nicholas Bosa.
Two plays later, running back Jordan Scarlett ripped through the right side for a 24-yard touchdown run just 49 seconds into the game to give St. Thomas Aquinas(12-1) a 7-0 margin.
The Wildcats had to punt on their next possession. James Oliphant bobbled the catch, picked up the ball and ran it 74 yards for a score at 9:10. However, it was negated due to a holding penalty.
That did not stop the Raiders as Scarlett would rush through the middle, avoided several tacklers downfield, cut back to the right side and scored from 55 yards away to give Aquinas a 14-point cushion.
RPB had their best opportunity to score in the first half on their next possession. They had a 4th-and-3 from the Raiders 10 when Centeio threw a dump pass to the right side toward the first down marker, but wide receiver Da'von Brown dropped the ball to end the drive. Aquinas responded on their next drive as they capped it off on a 42-yard field goal by Christopher Kirtley with 14 seconds left in the first quarter for a 17-0 lead.
In the second quarter, St. Thomas Aquinas regained the ball when defensive back Rashard Causey intercepted a pass and returned it 57 yards to the Wildcats five-yard line. Quarterback Jake Rizzo would score from one yard out two plays later as he went up the middle on a sneak to make it 24-0 at 8:39.
Running back Deltron Sands added to the rout with 4:44 remaining in the first half with a carry around the left end and down the sideline from 12 yards away. He had a 92-yard touchdown run not allowed earlier in the quarter due to a holding penalty downfield.
St. Thomas Aquinas poured it on in the last couple of minutes of the first half. Scarlett made it 38-0 with 2:01 remaining in the second quarter on a two-yard burst up the middle. Defensive back Claudeny Jeudy would intercept a screen pass to the left side on the Wildcats next drive. The Raiders struck again on the next play when Rizzo connected with wide receiver Jawuan Harris on a 36-yard reception and extended their lead to 45-0 with 21 seconds to go.
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Panthers Blank Hurricanes
The Florida Panthers hosted the Carolina Hurricanes on Wednesday night and pulled out a 1-0 combined shutout at BB&T Center. The Cats are now three points out from a playoff spot in their last game prior to Thanksgiving Day. The Hurricanes were on their third game of a four-game road trip.
It only took 21 seconds into the first period for Florida(8-6-6) to strike as their top line buzzed around the Hurricanes cage. Jonathan Huberdeau sent a pass from the end wall off the leg of Brandon Pirri at the top of the crease and Nick Bjugstad smacked a shot off Cam Ward for the goal. It was Bjugstad's fourth goal in four games and his sixth in six games. The Cats outshot their opponent 15-4 in the first 18 1/2 minutes of the contest.
After making a save on a backhand shot from close range by Victor Rask six minutes into the second period, Roberto Luongo had to leave the game due to an injury with 9:38 left in the frame and was replaced by Al Montoya. He had stopped 11 shots at that point.
Carolina(6-12-3) was unable to get the puck by Montoya in the third, although they outshot the Cats 17-5 in the final period.
It only took 21 seconds into the first period for Florida(8-6-6) to strike as their top line buzzed around the Hurricanes cage. Jonathan Huberdeau sent a pass from the end wall off the leg of Brandon Pirri at the top of the crease and Nick Bjugstad smacked a shot off Cam Ward for the goal. It was Bjugstad's fourth goal in four games and his sixth in six games. The Cats outshot their opponent 15-4 in the first 18 1/2 minutes of the contest.
After making a save on a backhand shot from close range by Victor Rask six minutes into the second period, Roberto Luongo had to leave the game due to an injury with 9:38 left in the frame and was replaced by Al Montoya. He had stopped 11 shots at that point.
Carolina(6-12-3) was unable to get the puck by Montoya in the third, although they outshot the Cats 17-5 in the final period.
Royal Palm Beach At St Thomas Aquinas Preview
It is an anticipated Class 7A matchup as the St. Thomas Aquinas Raiders host the Royal Palm Beach Wildcats in a regional final at Brian Piccolo Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on Friday night. Both schools come into this game with momentum.
St. Thomas Aquinas(11-1) were undefeated in District 15-7A and breezed by the competition in their division. The only exception was a nationally televised defeat to Don Bosco Prep 24-7 in a neutral site game in West Point, New York during their second game. The Raiders are currently on a ten-game win streak. They had an opening week victory over the defending Class 5A champion American Heritage 38-7 at Sun Life Stadium and a win at Miramar 20-12 during their third game.
The Raiders have outscored their last nine opponents, which included two playoff opponents, 465-20 and compiled six shutouts. They won a regional quarterfinal over Mater Academy Charter 57-0 and dropped their top district rival Plantation 38-6 in a regional semifinal last week. STA have appeared in a regional final every year since 2004.
Aquinas comes in with a balanced offensive attack. Running back Jordan Scarlett is expected to get the bulk of the carries from the backfield. Deltron Sands and Khambrel St. Hubert can run the ball when necessary. Jake Rizzo is their quarterback and he can throw the ball to any part of the field. He has a strong wide receiver core with Davante Peete, Sam Bruce and Jawuan Harris.
Royal Palm Beach(11-1) missed the postseason last year and have lost just three games in the last two seasons. They finished on top of the competitive District 13-7A ahead of defending Class 7A champion Dwyer, Atlantic, West Boca Raton and Lake Worth. The only loss in 2014 for the Wildcats was at Dwyer as they fell 47-24. They currently sit on a seven-game win streak in which they have outscored their opponents 269-60 in that span.
The Wildcats have never advanced beyond the regional final in school history. They had two playoff games at home and handled Fort Lauderdale 30-7 in the regional quarterfinal along with Atlantic in the 28-7 in the regional semifinal.
The main emphasis on the RPB offense will be quarterback Toddy Centeio. He can throw the ball and on occasion run the ball out of the pocket. They have a duel threat at running back with Charles Perry and Shamar Jackson as both players have speed to break open on a carry. Demarcus Holloway is an additional asset to their running game. Expect wide receivers Derick Python and Marlon Eugene to make their share of receptions from Centeio.
St. Thomas Aquinas(11-1) were undefeated in District 15-7A and breezed by the competition in their division. The only exception was a nationally televised defeat to Don Bosco Prep 24-7 in a neutral site game in West Point, New York during their second game. The Raiders are currently on a ten-game win streak. They had an opening week victory over the defending Class 5A champion American Heritage 38-7 at Sun Life Stadium and a win at Miramar 20-12 during their third game.
The Raiders have outscored their last nine opponents, which included two playoff opponents, 465-20 and compiled six shutouts. They won a regional quarterfinal over Mater Academy Charter 57-0 and dropped their top district rival Plantation 38-6 in a regional semifinal last week. STA have appeared in a regional final every year since 2004.
Aquinas comes in with a balanced offensive attack. Running back Jordan Scarlett is expected to get the bulk of the carries from the backfield. Deltron Sands and Khambrel St. Hubert can run the ball when necessary. Jake Rizzo is their quarterback and he can throw the ball to any part of the field. He has a strong wide receiver core with Davante Peete, Sam Bruce and Jawuan Harris.
Royal Palm Beach(11-1) missed the postseason last year and have lost just three games in the last two seasons. They finished on top of the competitive District 13-7A ahead of defending Class 7A champion Dwyer, Atlantic, West Boca Raton and Lake Worth. The only loss in 2014 for the Wildcats was at Dwyer as they fell 47-24. They currently sit on a seven-game win streak in which they have outscored their opponents 269-60 in that span.
The Wildcats have never advanced beyond the regional final in school history. They had two playoff games at home and handled Fort Lauderdale 30-7 in the regional quarterfinal along with Atlantic in the 28-7 in the regional semifinal.
The main emphasis on the RPB offense will be quarterback Toddy Centeio. He can throw the ball and on occasion run the ball out of the pocket. They have a duel threat at running back with Charles Perry and Shamar Jackson as both players have speed to break open on a carry. Demarcus Holloway is an additional asset to their running game. Expect wide receivers Derick Python and Marlon Eugene to make their share of receptions from Centeio.
Miami Ratings November 2014
104.3 The Ticket WAXY-FM remained ahead as the top sports format radio station in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale region for the 15th consecutive month. It was a good month as all three local radio stations in the area improved with their ratings.
November is the time of the year where 104.3 The Ticket usually begins to generate better ratings and that was no surprise this month as they went from a 1.5 to a 1.8. The main reason for it was the start of the NBA regular season for the Miami Heat, even with the loss of LeBron James from the roster.
Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM saw some improvement during the month of November as they went from a 0.9 to a 1.0. They have seen stability from their weekday lineup in the last couple of months which will go a long way. Evening host Alex Donno has gained some audience since becoming the new studio host of the Florida Panthers Radio Network.
Miami Sports 940 WINZ-AM did something that they had not done in 13 months as they increased for the second straight ratings period from a 0.3 to a 0.4 in November. The replacement of Jay Mohr for Rich Eisen in the midday shift certainly helped the station along with the optimism of Miami Dolphins football.
November is the time of the year where 104.3 The Ticket usually begins to generate better ratings and that was no surprise this month as they went from a 1.5 to a 1.8. The main reason for it was the start of the NBA regular season for the Miami Heat, even with the loss of LeBron James from the roster.
Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM saw some improvement during the month of November as they went from a 0.9 to a 1.0. They have seen stability from their weekday lineup in the last couple of months which will go a long way. Evening host Alex Donno has gained some audience since becoming the new studio host of the Florida Panthers Radio Network.
Miami Sports 940 WINZ-AM did something that they had not done in 13 months as they increased for the second straight ratings period from a 0.3 to a 0.4 in November. The replacement of Jay Mohr for Rich Eisen in the midday shift certainly helped the station along with the optimism of Miami Dolphins football.
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Heat Fall To Warriors
The Miami Heat lost their momentum prior to the Thanksgiving break as they were beat by the Golden State Warriors 114-97 on Tuesday night at American Airlines Arena. The Heat, who extended their television deal with Sun Sports today, played without Dwyane Wade for the seventh straight game. They will have a long five-day break and play in New York against the Knicks on Sunday.
The Warriors, who continued their best start in their franchise's 69-year history, matched the Houston Rockets with the best road record this season in the NBA at 6-1.
Miami(8-7) scored their most points in any quarter this season as they led 36-30 after the first. They finished the period on a 22-11 spurt with Mario Chalmers leading the way with 13 points.
The Heat began the second on an 18-8 run to go up 54-38 with 5:56 left in the first half. Golden State(11-2) chopped into the deficit and were down by just one point at halftime 62-61. Chris Bosh had 17 points at the half for the Heat while Stephen Curry had 18 for the Warriors.
Neither team led by more than seven points in the third as the Heat trailed 91-86 at the end of the quarter. Miami was up 95-93 with 7:24 remaining in the fourth until Golden State dropped down 14 consecutive points to lead by 107-95 with 2:49 left.
The Warriors, who continued their best start in their franchise's 69-year history, matched the Houston Rockets with the best road record this season in the NBA at 6-1.
Miami(8-7) scored their most points in any quarter this season as they led 36-30 after the first. They finished the period on a 22-11 spurt with Mario Chalmers leading the way with 13 points.
The Heat began the second on an 18-8 run to go up 54-38 with 5:56 left in the first half. Golden State(11-2) chopped into the deficit and were down by just one point at halftime 62-61. Chris Bosh had 17 points at the half for the Heat while Stephen Curry had 18 for the Warriors.
Neither team led by more than seven points in the third as the Heat trailed 91-86 at the end of the quarter. Miami was up 95-93 with 7:24 remaining in the fourth until Golden State dropped down 14 consecutive points to lead by 107-95 with 2:49 left.
Miami Heat Extend Television Deal
The Miami Heat have extended their exclusive local television rights with Sun Sports. The Heat have broadcast their games on Sun Sports since the middle of the 2004-05 season. They had been on their previous namesake Sunshine Network as their primary cable television home from 1992-93 until during the 2004-05 season.
The team had their cable broadcasts on SportsChannel Florida from their inaugural season in 1988-89 until 1991-92. Miami was once on free television in the first 16 seasons of the franchise. They had their games on WBFS-TV Channel 33 from 1988-89 to 1998-99 and from 2000-01 to 2003-04. WAMI-TV Channel 69 had their games as the only over-the-air channel in 1999-2000. WFOR-TV Channel 4, a sister station of WBFS-TV, added several games from 2000-01 until 2003-04.
Their will be no change in on-air personnel. Eric Reid will continue as the television play-by-play announcer. He has been broadcasting the club since their inception in 1988-89. Reid, an Ithaca College grad, started as a game analyst alongside Sam Smith in the first three seasons of a television and radio simulcast. He has been the television play-by-play guy for the team since 1991-92. Tony Fiorentino remains as the game analyst where he has held that role since the 2004-05 season. Jason Jackson stays as their main studio host and sideline reporter. Jackson, a former WSVN-TV Channel 7 sports anchor during the mid 1990s, has been with the Heat telecasts since the 2003-04 season.
The team had their cable broadcasts on SportsChannel Florida from their inaugural season in 1988-89 until 1991-92. Miami was once on free television in the first 16 seasons of the franchise. They had their games on WBFS-TV Channel 33 from 1988-89 to 1998-99 and from 2000-01 to 2003-04. WAMI-TV Channel 69 had their games as the only over-the-air channel in 1999-2000. WFOR-TV Channel 4, a sister station of WBFS-TV, added several games from 2000-01 until 2003-04.
Their will be no change in on-air personnel. Eric Reid will continue as the television play-by-play announcer. He has been broadcasting the club since their inception in 1988-89. Reid, an Ithaca College grad, started as a game analyst alongside Sam Smith in the first three seasons of a television and radio simulcast. He has been the television play-by-play guy for the team since 1991-92. Tony Fiorentino remains as the game analyst where he has held that role since the 2004-05 season. Jason Jackson stays as their main studio host and sideline reporter. Jackson, a former WSVN-TV Channel 7 sports anchor during the mid 1990s, has been with the Heat telecasts since the 2003-04 season.
Monday, November 24, 2014
Wild Rip Panthers
After a four-game road trip against Western Conference opponents, the Florida Panthers returned home and fell to the Minnesota Wild 4-1 at BB&T Center on Monday night. The Cats have lost two straight home games while the Wild have won five of their last six games.
Minnesota(12-8-0) put up two goals in the first period and never looked back. They scored 5:58 into the game when Mikko Koivu sent a cross-ice pass from the left wing to Jason Zucker in the right circle and let go a one-time shot by Roberto Luongo. Nino Neiderreiter made it 2-0 with 2:17 left in the first when he put in a shot from close range following a Panthers turnover.
In the second period, Shawn Thornton tallied his first goal with Florida(7-6-6). Dmitry Kulikov flinged the puck from the blue line and Thornton redirected it in the slot area past Niklas Backstrom at 5:34.
The Wild regained their two-goal cushion with 2:41 to go as Zucker skated toward the left of the crease and lifted a backhand shot over Lunogo's glove and into the roof of the Panthers cage. Koivu was again credited with the only assist on another Minnesota goal.
The Panthers pulled their goalie for an extra attacker with two minutes left in the third period, but Zach Parise put the biscuit into an open net at 18:31.
Minnesota(12-8-0) put up two goals in the first period and never looked back. They scored 5:58 into the game when Mikko Koivu sent a cross-ice pass from the left wing to Jason Zucker in the right circle and let go a one-time shot by Roberto Luongo. Nino Neiderreiter made it 2-0 with 2:17 left in the first when he put in a shot from close range following a Panthers turnover.
In the second period, Shawn Thornton tallied his first goal with Florida(7-6-6). Dmitry Kulikov flinged the puck from the blue line and Thornton redirected it in the slot area past Niklas Backstrom at 5:34.
The Wild regained their two-goal cushion with 2:41 to go as Zucker skated toward the left of the crease and lifted a backhand shot over Lunogo's glove and into the roof of the Panthers cage. Koivu was again credited with the only assist on another Minnesota goal.
The Panthers pulled their goalie for an extra attacker with two minutes left in the third period, but Zach Parise put the biscuit into an open net at 18:31.
Saturday, November 22, 2014
Predators Hold Off Panthers
The Florida Panthers finished a four-game road trip with a 3-2 shootout loss against the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena on Saturday night. The Cats overcame a two-goal deficit in the final minute of regulation to gain at least one point.
The Panthers return home for Thanksgiving week and will face another Western Conference foe in the Minnesota Wild on Monday night to begin a three-game stint in Sunrise.
Neither club scored in the opening period as the Cats were held to three shots during the first 19 minutes and four shots during the stanza.
Nashville(13-5-2) scored the first goal of the game with 1:34 left in the second period as Colin Wilson tallied his third goal of the season. Former Panther Matt Cullen added to the Predators lead with a goal at 13:01 of the third period.
Rocco Grimaldi got his first NHL goal on a snap shot from the left circle with 42.6 seconds left in regulation to bring Florida(7-5-6) within one goal. Brian Campbell lifted a blind backhand shot toward the net from the right circle to set up the play.
The Panthers shocked everyone with 29 seconds to go as they evened the contest at 2-2. Nick Bjugstad fired a shot from the right wing which went through Pekka Rinne to send it into overtime.
Filip Forsberg connected with the only goal in the shootout on the fourth attempt by the Predators. Roberto Luongo was able to make 48 saves in net for the Panthers.
The Panthers return home for Thanksgiving week and will face another Western Conference foe in the Minnesota Wild on Monday night to begin a three-game stint in Sunrise.
Neither club scored in the opening period as the Cats were held to three shots during the first 19 minutes and four shots during the stanza.
Nashville(13-5-2) scored the first goal of the game with 1:34 left in the second period as Colin Wilson tallied his third goal of the season. Former Panther Matt Cullen added to the Predators lead with a goal at 13:01 of the third period.
Rocco Grimaldi got his first NHL goal on a snap shot from the left circle with 42.6 seconds left in regulation to bring Florida(7-5-6) within one goal. Brian Campbell lifted a blind backhand shot toward the net from the right circle to set up the play.
The Panthers shocked everyone with 29 seconds to go as they evened the contest at 2-2. Nick Bjugstad fired a shot from the right wing which went through Pekka Rinne to send it into overtime.
Filip Forsberg connected with the only goal in the shootout on the fourth attempt by the Predators. Roberto Luongo was able to make 48 saves in net for the Panthers.
Second Round High School Football Recap
Second round FHSAA playoff games were played on Friday night throughout South Florida. There was no let up from the tri-county region that had six champions in the eight classifications during 2013.
The surprise this year has been the Wellington Wolverines in Class 8A led by quarterback Shannon Patrick, who transferred from Forest Hill. They got by the Palm Beach Gardens Gators, a state semifinalist last season, 16-10 and made the regional final game for the first time in school history. Next week Wellington will travel down to Flanagan, who edged Monarch 26-20 in overtime.
St. Thomas Aquinas hosted their district rival the Plantation Colonels for the third consecutive year in a Class 7A regional semifinals. It ended up being the same result as the Raiders rolled 38-6. Aquinas has reached the regional final every season since 2004 and will host the Royal Palm Beach Wildcats next week.
Two newcomers to the postseason from District 13-7A met on Friday night in Palm Beach County as RPB defeated Atlantic 28-7. The district was represented by eventual Class 7A champion Dwyer and West Boca Raton last year.
The Miami Central Rockets look to capture their third consecutive Class 6A championship and fourth in five seasons. They had no problems on the road as they beat the Hallandale Chargers 35-19. They have to take a long trip to Palm Bay and challenge Heritage in the regional final.
The defending Class 5A champions had an easy game at home in Plantation as the American Heritage Patriots pounded Lely 43-13. They will stay at home next Friday and face Island Coast.
Booker T. Washington, the defending national champions and Class 4A state champs, gave up the first seven points to the Glades Central Raiders in their regional final, however they came back with 35 unanswered points to win 35-7. The Tornadoes head north to Cocoa next week for a state semifinal game.
In Class 3A, the American Heritage Stallions were on the road and got by Westminister Christian 23-7. They will visit Clearwater Central Catholic next Friday.
Jupiter Christian head coach Bill Powers coached his final high school football game as his team fell to their longtime district rival the Glades Day Gators 41-0. Glades Day will host Indian Rocks Christian in a state semifinal next week in Belle Glade.
The surprise this year has been the Wellington Wolverines in Class 8A led by quarterback Shannon Patrick, who transferred from Forest Hill. They got by the Palm Beach Gardens Gators, a state semifinalist last season, 16-10 and made the regional final game for the first time in school history. Next week Wellington will travel down to Flanagan, who edged Monarch 26-20 in overtime.
St. Thomas Aquinas hosted their district rival the Plantation Colonels for the third consecutive year in a Class 7A regional semifinals. It ended up being the same result as the Raiders rolled 38-6. Aquinas has reached the regional final every season since 2004 and will host the Royal Palm Beach Wildcats next week.
Two newcomers to the postseason from District 13-7A met on Friday night in Palm Beach County as RPB defeated Atlantic 28-7. The district was represented by eventual Class 7A champion Dwyer and West Boca Raton last year.
The Miami Central Rockets look to capture their third consecutive Class 6A championship and fourth in five seasons. They had no problems on the road as they beat the Hallandale Chargers 35-19. They have to take a long trip to Palm Bay and challenge Heritage in the regional final.
The defending Class 5A champions had an easy game at home in Plantation as the American Heritage Patriots pounded Lely 43-13. They will stay at home next Friday and face Island Coast.
Booker T. Washington, the defending national champions and Class 4A state champs, gave up the first seven points to the Glades Central Raiders in their regional final, however they came back with 35 unanswered points to win 35-7. The Tornadoes head north to Cocoa next week for a state semifinal game.
In Class 3A, the American Heritage Stallions were on the road and got by Westminister Christian 23-7. They will visit Clearwater Central Catholic next Friday.
Jupiter Christian head coach Bill Powers coached his final high school football game as his team fell to their longtime district rival the Glades Day Gators 41-0. Glades Day will host Indian Rocks Christian in a state semifinal next week in Belle Glade.
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Panthers Down Sharks
For the second time in over one week, the Florida Panthers defeated the San Jose Sharks 3-2 in a shootout on Thursday night at SAP Center. The Cats, who rolled over the Sharks 4-1 last week in Sunrise, leave California after three games and finish the road trip in Nashville on Saturday. The Sharks had played 16 of their first 21 games on the road prior to this game.
Florida(7-5-5) scored on their first shift just 24 seconds into the game. Dmitry Kulikov fired a slapshot from the right point and Nick Bjugstad redirected it from the right circle by Antti Niemi.
Logan Couture evened the contest for San Jose(10-9-3) at 6:19 on the power play for his eighth goal of the season. Joe Pavelski and Patrick Marleau were credited with assists on the goal.
The Panthers regained the lead with 2:37 left in the second on the power play when Bjugstad blasted a shot from the top left circle on a fine feed by Eric Gudbranson at the blue line. Jonathan Huberdeau picked up his second assist on the play. It was the fourth straight game that the Cats have scored at least once with the man advantage.
The Sharks had the opportunity to tie it with 6:53 to go in the third period on a penalty shot. Marleau skated on net, went to the forehand shot and Roberto Luongo made a diving blocker save. He improved his career record on penalty shots to 24 saves on 27 attempts.
Marleau would get redemption and score with 33.1 second left in regulation when San Jose had an extra skater on the ice. Joe Thornton fed the puck from the right corner to Marleau in the low right circle and he snapped a shot by the blocker of Luongo to tie it at 2-2.
There was no scoring in overtime and the game went into a shootout. Couture made the second attempt for the Sharks with a forehand shot between Luongo's legs. Jussi Jokinen matched it for Florida with a wrist shot by the stick side of Niemi. Bjugstad, who had his third career two-goal game, got the game winner on the Panthers third attempt as he fired a shot over Niemi's glove.
Florida(7-5-5) scored on their first shift just 24 seconds into the game. Dmitry Kulikov fired a slapshot from the right point and Nick Bjugstad redirected it from the right circle by Antti Niemi.
Logan Couture evened the contest for San Jose(10-9-3) at 6:19 on the power play for his eighth goal of the season. Joe Pavelski and Patrick Marleau were credited with assists on the goal.
The Panthers regained the lead with 2:37 left in the second on the power play when Bjugstad blasted a shot from the top left circle on a fine feed by Eric Gudbranson at the blue line. Jonathan Huberdeau picked up his second assist on the play. It was the fourth straight game that the Cats have scored at least once with the man advantage.
The Sharks had the opportunity to tie it with 6:53 to go in the third period on a penalty shot. Marleau skated on net, went to the forehand shot and Roberto Luongo made a diving blocker save. He improved his career record on penalty shots to 24 saves on 27 attempts.
Marleau would get redemption and score with 33.1 second left in regulation when San Jose had an extra skater on the ice. Joe Thornton fed the puck from the right corner to Marleau in the low right circle and he snapped a shot by the blocker of Luongo to tie it at 2-2.
There was no scoring in overtime and the game went into a shootout. Couture made the second attempt for the Sharks with a forehand shot between Luongo's legs. Jussi Jokinen matched it for Florida with a wrist shot by the stick side of Niemi. Bjugstad, who had his third career two-goal game, got the game winner on the Panthers third attempt as he fired a shot over Niemi's glove.
Clippers Rout Heat
It was a game to be forgotten by the Miami Heat as they were blown away by the Los Angeles Clippers 110-93 on Thursday night at American Airlines Arena. The Heat have lost four of their last five games. The Clippers are on their second game of a seven-game road trip.
Los Angeles(7-4) roared out to a 31-11 spurt in the first ten minutes of the contest and were up 39-15 at the end of the first quarter. The Clippers continued their large lead during the second quarter as Miami(6-6) trailed 58-40 at halftime.
The Heat were able to get within 14 points at 65-51 with 8:48 left in the third quarter, however the Clippers went on a 10-2 run to squash that and were ahead 88-66 as they headed into the final quarter. Both teams rested their starters for most of the fourth quarter and brought in their reserves off the bench.
Chris Bosh carried the Heat with a team-high 28 points along with seven rebounds in 31 minutes of play. Luol Deng and Mario Chalmers contributed 13 points each while Shabazz Napier got 17 points. Chris Paul had 26 points and 12 assists in 33 minutes for Los Angeles. Blake Griffin knocked in 26 points and compiled seven rebounds.
Los Angeles(7-4) roared out to a 31-11 spurt in the first ten minutes of the contest and were up 39-15 at the end of the first quarter. The Clippers continued their large lead during the second quarter as Miami(6-6) trailed 58-40 at halftime.
The Heat were able to get within 14 points at 65-51 with 8:48 left in the third quarter, however the Clippers went on a 10-2 run to squash that and were ahead 88-66 as they headed into the final quarter. Both teams rested their starters for most of the fourth quarter and brought in their reserves off the bench.
Chris Bosh carried the Heat with a team-high 28 points along with seven rebounds in 31 minutes of play. Luol Deng and Mario Chalmers contributed 13 points each while Shabazz Napier got 17 points. Chris Paul had 26 points and 12 assists in 33 minutes for Los Angeles. Blake Griffin knocked in 26 points and compiled seven rebounds.
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Stanley Cup Champion Kings Beat Panthers
The Florida Panthers faced the defending Stanley Cup champion Los Angeles Kings and lost 5-2 on Tuesday night at Staples Center. The Cats entered this game having scored 17 times in their last four games.
Former Kings player and current Panthers captain Willie Mitchell received his Stanley Cup ring several hours prior to the game. Mitchell helped Los Angeles win two Stanley Cup titles in his three seasons he played there. He signed as a free agent with Florida during the summer.
In the second period, Los Angeles(10-5-4) got a goal from a surprising source as Matt Greene redirected a pass in the low right circle by Roberto Luongo for a 1-0 lead at 4:32. Brayden McNabb fed him a cross-ice pass from above the left circle for his first goal this year.
The Kings added to their margin on the power play at 9:46. Jamie McBain passed the puck from the right wing to Dwight King on the icing line. He guided it to Jeff Carter and he fired a one-time slapshot from the right circle dot for his seventh goal this season.
The windfall continued in the second against Florida(6-5-5) as the Kings scored on another power play with 5:42 left in the period. Jake Muzzin put a wrist shot from the left point into the crease area where Marian Gaborik attempted a shot. After the initial save by Luongo, Gaborik went to the backhand and found the twine in the back of the Panthers cage.
Robyn Regehr capped things with eight seconds to go for his first goal as he ripped a shot from the top left circle for a Los Angeles four-game gap. Luongo was pulled from net after two periods and was replaced by Al Montoya.
The Cats broke the shutout on the power play just 2:01 into the third period. After a scramble in front for the puck, Jimmy Hayes scored with a wrist shot from the top of the crease. Jonathan Huberdeau and Nick Bjugstad picked up assists on the play.
Florida continued their momentum at 6:05 to cut the deficit down to 4-2. Vincent Trocheck put a wrist shot on net from the top left circle which was saved by Jonathan Quick and Jokinen scored on the rebound for his second goal this season. Trocheck extended his point streak to five games.
The Kings added their third power play goal of the contest with 3:11 left in regulation as their captain Dustin Brown tried to thread a pass across the crease, however it went through Montoya and into the net.
Former Kings player and current Panthers captain Willie Mitchell received his Stanley Cup ring several hours prior to the game. Mitchell helped Los Angeles win two Stanley Cup titles in his three seasons he played there. He signed as a free agent with Florida during the summer.
In the second period, Los Angeles(10-5-4) got a goal from a surprising source as Matt Greene redirected a pass in the low right circle by Roberto Luongo for a 1-0 lead at 4:32. Brayden McNabb fed him a cross-ice pass from above the left circle for his first goal this year.
The Kings added to their margin on the power play at 9:46. Jamie McBain passed the puck from the right wing to Dwight King on the icing line. He guided it to Jeff Carter and he fired a one-time slapshot from the right circle dot for his seventh goal this season.
The windfall continued in the second against Florida(6-5-5) as the Kings scored on another power play with 5:42 left in the period. Jake Muzzin put a wrist shot from the left point into the crease area where Marian Gaborik attempted a shot. After the initial save by Luongo, Gaborik went to the backhand and found the twine in the back of the Panthers cage.
Robyn Regehr capped things with eight seconds to go for his first goal as he ripped a shot from the top left circle for a Los Angeles four-game gap. Luongo was pulled from net after two periods and was replaced by Al Montoya.
The Cats broke the shutout on the power play just 2:01 into the third period. After a scramble in front for the puck, Jimmy Hayes scored with a wrist shot from the top of the crease. Jonathan Huberdeau and Nick Bjugstad picked up assists on the play.
Florida continued their momentum at 6:05 to cut the deficit down to 4-2. Vincent Trocheck put a wrist shot on net from the top left circle which was saved by Jonathan Quick and Jokinen scored on the rebound for his second goal this season. Trocheck extended his point streak to five games.
The Kings added their third power play goal of the contest with 3:11 left in regulation as their captain Dustin Brown tried to thread a pass across the crease, however it went through Montoya and into the net.
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Strikers Lose Soccer Bowl To San Antonio
The Fort Lauderdale Strikers made their first appearance in the modern Soccer Bowl on Saturday night at Toyota Field and were defeated by the San Antonio Scorpions 2-1 for the NASL championship. Both clubs were vying for their first league title. The Strikers, who had their eight-game winning streak snapped, once played in the Soccer Bowl back in 1980 during the old North American Soccer League and lost to the New York Cosmos 3-0.
Neither team was unable to score during the first half. San Antonio came through with two goals in the middle of the second half. Rafael Castillo struck a bicycle kick during the 70th minute. Billy Forbes gave the Scorpions a two-goal lead on a breakaway in the 75th minute.
The Strikers responded quickly during the 79th minute to knocked the margin down to 2-1. Walter Ramirez pulled off a give-and-go with Mark Anderson and finished the play with a blast into the top half of the net.
Neither team was unable to score during the first half. San Antonio came through with two goals in the middle of the second half. Rafael Castillo struck a bicycle kick during the 70th minute. Billy Forbes gave the Scorpions a two-goal lead on a breakaway in the 75th minute.
The Strikers responded quickly during the 79th minute to knocked the margin down to 2-1. Walter Ramirez pulled off a give-and-go with Mark Anderson and finished the play with a blast into the top half of the net.
Friday, November 14, 2014
Islanders Skate By Panthers
The Florida Panthers finished a three-game homestand with a 4-3 shootout defeat to the New York Islanders at BB&T Center on Friday night. The Islanders increased their winning streak to five games while the Cats lost for the fourth time in five games.
Roberto Luongo made 30 saves and moved to fifth all-time in NHL history with 22,213 saves in his career. He passed former Panthers goalie John Vanbiesbrouck for that honor.
In the first period, Florida(5-4-5) put in the only goal. Vincent Trocheck was at the left icing line and threaded a pass to the slot area where Jimmy Hayes scored his third goal of the season at 12;57. He now holds a three-game goal streak.
The goal snapped a shutout streak for the Islanders over the last four games. They needed 18:03 in the first period to tie the franchise record of 199:14, but they fell short by 5:06. Jaroslav Halak recorded two straight shutouts for the Isles entering this contest.
Luongo made his 15th save of the game 3:04 into the second period to climb above the Beezer for fifth all-time in NHL saves. He was drafted and once played for the Islanders back in 1999-2000.
New York(11-5-0) evened it up 1-1 at 13:04 when John Tavares snapped a wrist shot from the right circle by the left glove of Luongo for his seventh goal in this campaign. Kyle Okposo fed him a cross-ice pass from the low left circle.
The Islanders kept the momentum and took their first lead at 15:08. Thomas Hickey was in his own left corner of the defensive zone and connected a long lead pass to Ryan Strome just short of the Panthers blue line. He came in alone on a breakaway and scored.
The Isles extended their lead to 3-1 just 3:57 into the third period. Johnny Boychuk fired a slapshot from the right point that was stopped by Luongo at the top of the crease. The rebound leaked out and Nicolay Kulemin placed a forehand shot into the net.
The Cats were two seconds into a brief power play when they chopped the margin to 3-2 with 10:02 remaining. Jussi Jokinen crossed into the Islanders zone and dropped the puck to Brian Campbell. He skated to the left-circle dot and nailed a wrist shot over the left shoulder of Halak.
Florida tied it at 3-3 with 2:35 to go as Panthers rookie defenseman Aaron Ekblad took a slapshot from the right point. It went in and out of Halak's left glove and landed inside the Islanders cage.
The game went into a shootout and New York converted on their first attempt when Frans Nielsen scored on the backhand by Luongo. Jonatthan Huberdeau matched it as he did a zig-zag move to get the puck by Halak. Okposo clinched the victory on the Islanders second attempt as he rallied in a forehand shot.
Roberto Luongo made 30 saves and moved to fifth all-time in NHL history with 22,213 saves in his career. He passed former Panthers goalie John Vanbiesbrouck for that honor.
In the first period, Florida(5-4-5) put in the only goal. Vincent Trocheck was at the left icing line and threaded a pass to the slot area where Jimmy Hayes scored his third goal of the season at 12;57. He now holds a three-game goal streak.
The goal snapped a shutout streak for the Islanders over the last four games. They needed 18:03 in the first period to tie the franchise record of 199:14, but they fell short by 5:06. Jaroslav Halak recorded two straight shutouts for the Isles entering this contest.
Luongo made his 15th save of the game 3:04 into the second period to climb above the Beezer for fifth all-time in NHL saves. He was drafted and once played for the Islanders back in 1999-2000.
New York(11-5-0) evened it up 1-1 at 13:04 when John Tavares snapped a wrist shot from the right circle by the left glove of Luongo for his seventh goal in this campaign. Kyle Okposo fed him a cross-ice pass from the low left circle.
The Islanders kept the momentum and took their first lead at 15:08. Thomas Hickey was in his own left corner of the defensive zone and connected a long lead pass to Ryan Strome just short of the Panthers blue line. He came in alone on a breakaway and scored.
The Isles extended their lead to 3-1 just 3:57 into the third period. Johnny Boychuk fired a slapshot from the right point that was stopped by Luongo at the top of the crease. The rebound leaked out and Nicolay Kulemin placed a forehand shot into the net.
The Cats were two seconds into a brief power play when they chopped the margin to 3-2 with 10:02 remaining. Jussi Jokinen crossed into the Islanders zone and dropped the puck to Brian Campbell. He skated to the left-circle dot and nailed a wrist shot over the left shoulder of Halak.
Florida tied it at 3-3 with 2:35 to go as Panthers rookie defenseman Aaron Ekblad took a slapshot from the right point. It went in and out of Halak's left glove and landed inside the Islanders cage.
The game went into a shootout and New York converted on their first attempt when Frans Nielsen scored on the backhand by Luongo. Jonatthan Huberdeau matched it as he did a zig-zag move to get the puck by Halak. Okposo clinched the victory on the Islanders second attempt as he rallied in a forehand shot.
Boynton Beach At Miami Central Preview
It will be a rematch from last year as the Boynton Beach Tigers travel down to Miami and challenge the Central Rockets on Friday night at Traz Powell Stadium in a FHSAA Class 6A regional quarterfinal. The Rockets defeated the Tigers 55-37 last year on the way to their second consecutive state championship and third in the last four seasons.
Boynton Beach(9-1) had a chance to win the District 15-6A title two weeks ago, however they fell to the Chargers in Hallandale and took the runner-up spot for the second straight year.
Lamar Jackson is at quarterback for the Tigers as he will execute their offense. Wide receivers Donte Sylencieux and Dieuly Aristilde are expected to be his main targets to throw the ball to downfield. Boynton Beach can have a slew of running backs rushing the ball with Zaire Ivory, Chauncey Mason, Zander Bernard and Jordan Galvan.
Boynton Beach(9-1) had a chance to win the District 15-6A title two weeks ago, however they fell to the Chargers in Hallandale and took the runner-up spot for the second straight year.
Lamar Jackson is at quarterback for the Tigers as he will execute their offense. Wide receivers Donte Sylencieux and Dieuly Aristilde are expected to be his main targets to throw the ball to downfield. Boynton Beach can have a slew of running backs rushing the ball with Zaire Ivory, Chauncey Mason, Zander Bernard and Jordan Galvan.
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Joe Raineri Interim WMEN Afternoon Host
Joe Raineri has been plugged in as an interim afternoon host at 640 Sports WMEN-AM. He takes over for Steve White who was suspended after just two weeks on the job as the new afternoon host when he broke business policies.
The afternoon drive spot in the weekday lineup has been in flux since Orlando Alzugaray left the station in late August after a four-year stint to join Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM. Jon Linder stepped in as the interim afternoon host for almost two months until October 17.
Raineri has been previously heard as a disc jockey in South Florida. He was once the morning host at 97.9 WRMF-FM in West Palm Beach.
The afternoon drive spot in the weekday lineup has been in flux since Orlando Alzugaray left the station in late August after a four-year stint to join Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM. Jon Linder stepped in as the interim afternoon host for almost two months until October 17.
Raineri has been previously heard as a disc jockey in South Florida. He was once the morning host at 97.9 WRMF-FM in West Palm Beach.
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Pacers Get By Heat
The Miami Heat were defeated by the Indiana Pacers 81-75 on Wednesday night at American Airlines Arena. Both teams had faced each other during the NBA playoffs in the last three years, which included a Heat series win in six games over the Pacers in the Eastern Conference finals last season.
Miami(5-3) put in the first five points of the contest and were up 26-24 after one quarter. The Heat expanded their lead to nine points during the second quarter and lead 42-41 at halftime.
The Heat franchise held a halftime ceremony on the induction of Alonzo Mourning into the Basketball Hall of Fame which occurred in August. The banner with his retired number 33 had a Basketball Hall of Fame 2014 stripe added to the bottom of it.
The game stayed close in the third quarter and Indiana(3-6) got up 63-58 at the end of the period. Miami was down 72-65 with 7:03 left in the fourth quarter and scored seven straight points to tie it at 72-72.
Both clubs were tied at 75-75 then the Pacers scored the last six points of the game. Chris Copeland put in the go-ahead basket on a running shot in the lane with 41.8 seconds remaining. Donald Sloan and Roy Hibbert both made two free throws down the stretch.
Only two Heat players scored in double digits. Dwyane Wade scored 20 points in 35 minutes and Shawne Williams nailed 15 points. Chris Bosh and Norris Cole both contributed nine. Miami was outrebounded 53-28 during the game. Copeland had 17 points for Indiana while Hibbert compiled a double-double with 16 points and 15 rebounds.
Miami(5-3) put in the first five points of the contest and were up 26-24 after one quarter. The Heat expanded their lead to nine points during the second quarter and lead 42-41 at halftime.
The Heat franchise held a halftime ceremony on the induction of Alonzo Mourning into the Basketball Hall of Fame which occurred in August. The banner with his retired number 33 had a Basketball Hall of Fame 2014 stripe added to the bottom of it.
The game stayed close in the third quarter and Indiana(3-6) got up 63-58 at the end of the period. Miami was down 72-65 with 7:03 left in the fourth quarter and scored seven straight points to tie it at 72-72.
Both clubs were tied at 75-75 then the Pacers scored the last six points of the game. Chris Copeland put in the go-ahead basket on a running shot in the lane with 41.8 seconds remaining. Donald Sloan and Roy Hibbert both made two free throws down the stretch.
Only two Heat players scored in double digits. Dwyane Wade scored 20 points in 35 minutes and Shawne Williams nailed 15 points. Chris Bosh and Norris Cole both contributed nine. Miami was outrebounded 53-28 during the game. Copeland had 17 points for Indiana while Hibbert compiled a double-double with 16 points and 15 rebounds.
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Panthers Attack Sharks
The Florida Panthers hosted the San Jose Sharks on Tuesday night at BB&T Center and beat them easily 4-1. The Cats snapped a three-game winless streak while the Sharks played their third game of a long seven-game road trip.
The Panthers waited until the middle of the first period to score as they tallied twice in less than two minutes. Jimmy Hayes got the first goal for Florida(5-4-4) at 10:56 in the slot area for his second this year. Jussi Jokinen had the puck in the left corner and centered to Vincent Trocheck at the edge of the left circle and he redirected it to a wide open Hayes in front.
Aleksander Barkov added to the gap as he scored on a close range shot against Antti Niemi at 12:18 for his second goal this season with assists from Scottie Upshall and Tomas Kopecky.
The Cats extended their lead to a three-goal cushion during the second period at 6:37. Aaron Ekblad fired a slapshot from the right point in which Niemi made the initial save. Derek MacKenzie swept in the long rebound for his second tally this season.
Early in the third period, San Jose(8-7-2) gave up another goal at 3:01. Shawn Thornton carried the puck through the left circle and sent a cross-ice pass to Tomas Fleischmann in the low slot area where he scored on a wrist shot to make it 4-0.
The Sharks finally got on the scoreboard with 9:25 left in regulation as Joe Thornton got his fifth goal of the season. Brent Burns pounded a slap shot from the right point which was batted in the air by Roberto Luongo and Thornton poked in the loose puck into the Panthers cage. Thornton, a longtime Panther nemesis, compiled his tenth goal and 29th point in 34 career games against Florida.
The Panthers waited until the middle of the first period to score as they tallied twice in less than two minutes. Jimmy Hayes got the first goal for Florida(5-4-4) at 10:56 in the slot area for his second this year. Jussi Jokinen had the puck in the left corner and centered to Vincent Trocheck at the edge of the left circle and he redirected it to a wide open Hayes in front.
Aleksander Barkov added to the gap as he scored on a close range shot against Antti Niemi at 12:18 for his second goal this season with assists from Scottie Upshall and Tomas Kopecky.
The Cats extended their lead to a three-goal cushion during the second period at 6:37. Aaron Ekblad fired a slapshot from the right point in which Niemi made the initial save. Derek MacKenzie swept in the long rebound for his second tally this season.
Early in the third period, San Jose(8-7-2) gave up another goal at 3:01. Shawn Thornton carried the puck through the left circle and sent a cross-ice pass to Tomas Fleischmann in the low slot area where he scored on a wrist shot to make it 4-0.
The Sharks finally got on the scoreboard with 9:25 left in regulation as Joe Thornton got his fifth goal of the season. Brent Burns pounded a slap shot from the right point which was batted in the air by Roberto Luongo and Thornton poked in the loose puck into the Panthers cage. Thornton, a longtime Panther nemesis, compiled his tenth goal and 29th point in 34 career games against Florida.
Monday, November 10, 2014
NASL Soccer Bowl On Local Radio
The Fort Lauderdale Strikers will be playing in the 2014 Soccer Bowl for the NASL championship on Saturday night against the Scorpions in San Antonio. The team won their NASL semifinal game at Minnesota United this past weekend.
It will be the first appearance for the rebranded Strikers franchise in the modern Soccer Bowl. Fort Lauderdale was in the North American Soccer League championship game one previous time when they fell to the New York Cosmos 3-0 in 1980 at RFK Stadium in Washington D.C.
A statement was made on Monday that SoFloRadio.com will broadcast the Soccer Bowl on its website. It will be the first time that the organization will announce a Strikers game on the road. SoFloRadio.com has held the streaming rights of the Fort Lauderdale Strikers for the last two years. Bruce Silverman will be the play-by-play announcer for the game.
It will be the first appearance for the rebranded Strikers franchise in the modern Soccer Bowl. Fort Lauderdale was in the North American Soccer League championship game one previous time when they fell to the New York Cosmos 3-0 in 1980 at RFK Stadium in Washington D.C.
A statement was made on Monday that SoFloRadio.com will broadcast the Soccer Bowl on its website. It will be the first time that the organization will announce a Strikers game on the road. SoFloRadio.com has held the streaming rights of the Fort Lauderdale Strikers for the last two years. Bruce Silverman will be the play-by-play announcer for the game.
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Bruins Edge Panthers
The Florida Panthers fell to the Boston Bruins 2-1 in overtime on Tuesday night at TD Garden. It was the seventh straight game that the Cats had compiled at least one point. The Bruins defeated the Panthers for the ninth consecutive time.
There was no scoring until the second period of the contest. Florida(4-2-4) scored at 4:04 as Jussi Jokinen put in a one-time shot from the slot area by Tuukka Rask for his first goal as a member of the Panthers. Brad Boyes set up the play with a square pass from the edge of the left circle.
It did not take long for Boston(8-6-0) to tie it up as they made it 1-1 at 7:29 when Patrice Bergeron tallied his second goal of the season.
The B's dominated overtime as the puck was mostly in the Panthers defensive zone. Dougie Hamilton picked up a loose puck at center ice and passed ahead to Brad Marchand at the blue line. He skated around Dylan Olsen and snapped a forehand shot over the right shoulder of Roberto Luongo at 3:27 for the Bruins victory.
There was no scoring until the second period of the contest. Florida(4-2-4) scored at 4:04 as Jussi Jokinen put in a one-time shot from the slot area by Tuukka Rask for his first goal as a member of the Panthers. Brad Boyes set up the play with a square pass from the edge of the left circle.
It did not take long for Boston(8-6-0) to tie it up as they made it 1-1 at 7:29 when Patrice Bergeron tallied his second goal of the season.
The B's dominated overtime as the puck was mostly in the Panthers defensive zone. Dougie Hamilton picked up a loose puck at center ice and passed ahead to Brad Marchand at the blue line. He skated around Dylan Olsen and snapped a forehand shot over the right shoulder of Roberto Luongo at 3:27 for the Bruins victory.
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Miami Ratings October 2014
It remained the same for the 14th straight month as 104.3 The Ticket WAXY-FM was the top sports format radio station in the Miami/Fort Lauderdale region. They had their smallest margin of victory in the previous month during the year-long period.
The wait at 104.3 The Ticket finally ended as the Miami Heat returned to the station with several preseason games. They climbed from a 1.3 in September to a 1.5 for the ratings victory.
Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM had their momentum stopped after one month as they went from a 1.2 to a 0.9. A bad beginning by the Miami Hurricanes football team against Atlantic Coast Conference competition did not help matters and the Florida Panthers had their usual slow October start of the season.
After eight consecutive months of staying flat at a 0.2, Miami Sports 940 WINZ-AM went up to a 0.3 in October. The good start by the Miami Dolphins and not having any more Miami Marlins game broadcasts this year had put that station on the plus side.
The wait at 104.3 The Ticket finally ended as the Miami Heat returned to the station with several preseason games. They climbed from a 1.3 in September to a 1.5 for the ratings victory.
Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM had their momentum stopped after one month as they went from a 1.2 to a 0.9. A bad beginning by the Miami Hurricanes football team against Atlantic Coast Conference competition did not help matters and the Florida Panthers had their usual slow October start of the season.
After eight consecutive months of staying flat at a 0.2, Miami Sports 940 WINZ-AM went up to a 0.3 in October. The good start by the Miami Dolphins and not having any more Miami Marlins game broadcasts this year had put that station on the plus side.
Panthers Handle Flyers
The Florida Panthers came very close to a shutout as they beat the Philadelphia Flyers 2-1 on Saturday night at BB&T Center. The Cats earned a point for the sixth consecutive game. It was the only appearance for the Flyers in Sunrise this season.
Willie Mitchell, the new captain of the Panthers, tallied his first goal with his new club at 9:07 of the first period. Jussi Jokinen sent the puck from the low left wing to Mitchell at the left point. He blasted a slapshot through traffic that went by Steve Mason for a Florida(4-2-3) 1-0 lead.
They extended their lead during the third period on the power play with 4:22 left in regulation as Aaron Ekblad scored his first career NHL goal. He pounded a shot from the top of the zone following a feed from Brian Campbell on the right point.
Roberto Luongo fell short of claiming the shutout until 7.4 seconds to go as Philadelphia(4-5-2) found the twine. The Flyers had an extra skater on the ice when there was a scramble in the crease for the puck. Vincent Lecavalier, who was to the right side of the Panthers crease, flipped a shot between Luongo and the near post for his second goal this season.
Willie Mitchell, the new captain of the Panthers, tallied his first goal with his new club at 9:07 of the first period. Jussi Jokinen sent the puck from the low left wing to Mitchell at the left point. He blasted a slapshot through traffic that went by Steve Mason for a Florida(4-2-3) 1-0 lead.
They extended their lead during the third period on the power play with 4:22 left in regulation as Aaron Ekblad scored his first career NHL goal. He pounded a shot from the top of the zone following a feed from Brian Campbell on the right point.
Roberto Luongo fell short of claiming the shutout until 7.4 seconds to go as Philadelphia(4-5-2) found the twine. The Flyers had an extra skater on the ice when there was a scramble in the crease for the puck. Vincent Lecavalier, who was to the right side of the Panthers crease, flipped a shot between Luongo and the near post for his second goal this season.
Thursday, October 30, 2014
Boynton Beach At Hallandale Preview
The District 15-6A title will be decided between two undefeated teams on Friday night as the Boynton Beach Tigers travel 40 miles down I-95 to Hallandale and take on the Chargers. The winner will host a regional quarterfinal game in two weeks while the loser will have to go on the road and face the defending FHSAA Class 6A champion Miami Central Rockets.
It was a high-scoring shootout on the road last week for Boynton Beach(9-0, 4-0) as they got by Coconut Creek 63-58. The Tigers have scored as least 42 points in seven of their nine games this season. They have compiled three shutouts and outscored their opponents 456-150 this year.
Quarterback Lamar Jackson looks to move his team down the field on offense with his running out of the pocket and passing ability. His main targets on receptions will be wide receivers Donte Sylencieux and Dieuly Aristilde who intend to run deep patterns. They have a bunch of choices to use in the backfield with Zander Bernard, Zaire Ivory, Chauncey Mason and Jordan Galvan as their running backs.
After three straight seasons of having to look at Dillard above them in the final district standings, Hallandale(8-0, 4-0) went on the road and finally defeated them two weeks ago 30-14. The Chargers have beaten every team they faced by at least eight points this season and they have outscored opponents 319-102.
Tyler Huntley is expected to dictate the Chargers offense from the quarterback position. Running back Taj Mcgowan will get most of the carries while Sh'mar Kilby-lane, Juwan Taylor and Rodney Holmes can run in short yardage situations with a full house backfield. Hallandale has numerous options at wide receiver with Josh Hammond, Neru N'shaka, Chris Cotto and Bernard Scott.
It was a high-scoring shootout on the road last week for Boynton Beach(9-0, 4-0) as they got by Coconut Creek 63-58. The Tigers have scored as least 42 points in seven of their nine games this season. They have compiled three shutouts and outscored their opponents 456-150 this year.
Quarterback Lamar Jackson looks to move his team down the field on offense with his running out of the pocket and passing ability. His main targets on receptions will be wide receivers Donte Sylencieux and Dieuly Aristilde who intend to run deep patterns. They have a bunch of choices to use in the backfield with Zander Bernard, Zaire Ivory, Chauncey Mason and Jordan Galvan as their running backs.
After three straight seasons of having to look at Dillard above them in the final district standings, Hallandale(8-0, 4-0) went on the road and finally defeated them two weeks ago 30-14. The Chargers have beaten every team they faced by at least eight points this season and they have outscored opponents 319-102.
Tyler Huntley is expected to dictate the Chargers offense from the quarterback position. Running back Taj Mcgowan will get most of the carries while Sh'mar Kilby-lane, Juwan Taylor and Rodney Holmes can run in short yardage situations with a full house backfield. Hallandale has numerous options at wide receiver with Josh Hammond, Neru N'shaka, Chris Cotto and Bernard Scott.
Panthers Stop Coyotes
The Florida Panthers returned home following a two-week, four-game road trip and defeated the Arizona Coyotes 2-1 on Thursday night at BB&T Center. The Cats lost their previous game five days ago in overtime at Arizona.
Arizona(3-5-1) scored in the first period on their second power play attempt at 17:27. Oliver Ekman-Larsson took a shot from the right circle that was deflected in front by the stick shaft of Martin Hanzal which sneaked in between Roberto Luongo and the near post.
In the second period, Florida(3-2-3) evened the contest at 5:37 on their third power play. Jussi Jokinen fed a pass from the left wing to Brandon Pirri at the edge of the left circle and he fired a one-time slapshot by Mike Smith. Pirri scored in his third consecutive game while Jokinen extended his point and assist streak to three games.
The Panthers took their first lead of the game during the third period in an unusual way. Scottie Upshall had exited the penalty box after he served a two-minute charging penalty and received a lead pass beyond the red line from Tomas Kopecky. Upshall skated in alone through the slot area and put a backhand shot in with 9:04 remaining in the third.
Arizona(3-5-1) scored in the first period on their second power play attempt at 17:27. Oliver Ekman-Larsson took a shot from the right circle that was deflected in front by the stick shaft of Martin Hanzal which sneaked in between Roberto Luongo and the near post.
In the second period, Florida(3-2-3) evened the contest at 5:37 on their third power play. Jussi Jokinen fed a pass from the left wing to Brandon Pirri at the edge of the left circle and he fired a one-time slapshot by Mike Smith. Pirri scored in his third consecutive game while Jokinen extended his point and assist streak to three games.
The Panthers took their first lead of the game during the third period in an unusual way. Scottie Upshall had exited the penalty box after he served a two-minute charging penalty and received a lead pass beyond the red line from Tomas Kopecky. Upshall skated in alone through the slot area and put a backhand shot in with 9:04 remaining in the third.
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Heat Take Season Opener Over Wizards
The post-LeBron James era began for the Miami Heat in their home opener on Wednesday night as they got a 107-95 victory over the Washington Wizards at American Airlines Arena. The Heat entered the game as the defending four-time Eastern Conference champions.
Washington(0-1) got out to a 28-22 lead after one quarter and trailed 53-52 at halftime. Neither team led by more than five points during the third quarter as Miami(1-0) was up 72-70 at the end of the period. The Wizards came as close as 76-75 with 9:36 left in the fourth quarter. The Heat then scored the next eight points and never looked back.
Chris Bosh compiled a team-high 26 points and 15 rebounds in 39 minutes for Miami. Norris Cole had 23 points and Dwyane Wade added 21. Luol Deng made his Heat regular season debut and put together 12 points in 30 minutes.
Paul Pierce debuted for the Wizards with 17 points, six rebounds and five assists in 32 minutes. John Wall dropped in 16 points and recorded a team-high 11 assists. Drew Gooden and Marcin Gortat both scored a team-high 18 points each for Washington.
Washington(0-1) got out to a 28-22 lead after one quarter and trailed 53-52 at halftime. Neither team led by more than five points during the third quarter as Miami(1-0) was up 72-70 at the end of the period. The Wizards came as close as 76-75 with 9:36 left in the fourth quarter. The Heat then scored the next eight points and never looked back.
Chris Bosh compiled a team-high 26 points and 15 rebounds in 39 minutes for Miami. Norris Cole had 23 points and Dwyane Wade added 21. Luol Deng made his Heat regular season debut and put together 12 points in 30 minutes.
Paul Pierce debuted for the Wizards with 17 points, six rebounds and five assists in 32 minutes. John Wall dropped in 16 points and recorded a team-high 11 assists. Drew Gooden and Marcin Gortat both scored a team-high 18 points each for Washington.
Monday, October 27, 2014
Dino Costa Returns To Florida
Former local sports host Dino Costa makes his return to the Florida airwaves on November 3 as he will co-host a mid-afternoon show with Pat Paolini on WAOC-AM in St. Augustine. He had a previous run as the afternoon host at WNNR-AM in Jacksonville from June 2003 until February 2004.
Costa had a brief stint as the afternoon host on 1400 The Fan WFLL-AM in Fort Lauderdale when the station launched into a sports format in April 2004. The position lasted just three months. Costa was let go when he would not accept Bruce Warner as a new co-host on his show.
He recently had a reign at Mad Dog Radio on Sirius XM Radio as an evening sports host until early September 2013. Costa was shifted to the Sports Nation channel as the morning host where he stayed for only one month before he was ousted. He joined the satellite radio company in January 2010.
Costa had a brief stint as the afternoon host on 1400 The Fan WFLL-AM in Fort Lauderdale when the station launched into a sports format in April 2004. The position lasted just three months. Costa was let go when he would not accept Bruce Warner as a new co-host on his show.
He recently had a reign at Mad Dog Radio on Sirius XM Radio as an evening sports host until early September 2013. Costa was shifted to the Sports Nation channel as the morning host where he stayed for only one month before he was ousted. He joined the satellite radio company in January 2010.
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Coyotes Get By Panthers
The Florida Panthers finished a four-game road trip with a 2-1 overtime loss to the newly named Arizona Coyotes on Saturday night at Gila River Arena. Both teams will meet again in Sunrise on Thursday night. The Panthers have earned at least one point in all five road games this season.
Neither team scored during the first two periods. Florida(2-2-3) broke the tie at 1:47 of the third period. The Coyotes committed a turnover behind their cage and the Cats capitalized. Tomas Fleischmann carried the puck to right of the net and passed in front to Brandon Pirri. He faked a forehand shot in the low slot and scored on the backhand around Mike Smith for a Panthers 1-0 lead.
Arizona(3-3-1) evened the game at 9:51 on the power play as Justin Hodgman picked up his first NHL goal in his National Hockey League debut. A Keith Yandle slapshot from the blue line was deflected by Lauri Korpikoski in front and saved by Roberto Luongo. Hodgman pounced on the rebound and put it in from close range.
The Coyotes got a man advantage in overtime when Aleksander Barkov was called for high sticking at 1:25. They scored on the power play at 2:20 when Sam Gagner passed the puck from the low left circle to Oliver Ekman-Larsson on the top left circle. He fired a shot by the left glove of Luongo for the win.
Neither team scored during the first two periods. Florida(2-2-3) broke the tie at 1:47 of the third period. The Coyotes committed a turnover behind their cage and the Cats capitalized. Tomas Fleischmann carried the puck to right of the net and passed in front to Brandon Pirri. He faked a forehand shot in the low slot and scored on the backhand around Mike Smith for a Panthers 1-0 lead.
Arizona(3-3-1) evened the game at 9:51 on the power play as Justin Hodgman picked up his first NHL goal in his National Hockey League debut. A Keith Yandle slapshot from the blue line was deflected by Lauri Korpikoski in front and saved by Roberto Luongo. Hodgman pounced on the rebound and put it in from close range.
The Coyotes got a man advantage in overtime when Aleksander Barkov was called for high sticking at 1:25. They scored on the power play at 2:20 when Sam Gagner passed the puck from the low left circle to Oliver Ekman-Larsson on the top left circle. He fired a shot by the left glove of Luongo for the win.
Friday, October 24, 2014
Florida Panthers On Spanish Radio
The Florida Panthers will have three home games during the 2014-15 season on the radio in Spanish language. It will be broadcast on ESPN Deportes 1210 WNMA-AM in Miami and ESPN Deportes 760 WEFL-AM in West Palm Beach. They will be on October 30 against the Arizona Coyotes, January 15 against the Colorado Avalanche and March 21 against the Boston Bruins.
The Panthers had Spanish language radio broadcasts on WCMQ 1210 AM during their first three campaigns in the National Hockey League with Arley Londono as the play-by-play announcer and Felix DeJesus as the game analyst. Florida played their first five seasons at Miami Arena in Dade County before they moved to their current home in Sunrise. Londono will work all three games in the same play-by-play role and will be joined by Octavio Sequera as the game analyst.
The Panthers had Spanish language radio broadcasts on WCMQ 1210 AM during their first three campaigns in the National Hockey League with Arley Londono as the play-by-play announcer and Felix DeJesus as the game analyst. Florida played their first five seasons at Miami Arena in Dade County before they moved to their current home in Sunrise. Londono will work all three games in the same play-by-play role and will be joined by Octavio Sequera as the game analyst.
Monday, October 20, 2014
Steve White New WMEN Afternoon Host
Steve White began as the new afternoon host at 640 Sports WMEN-AM on Monday. He recently hosted one show at the station on Saturday afternoon. He replaced Jon Linder who was the interim afternoon host since August 25.
White held several titles at Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM from late 2009 to early October 2014. He first joined the organization as a salesperson and added on-air duties as a weekend host. He was a late morning show sidekick for Gino Torretta from late 2010 until the end of December 2011. White also worked for Torretta as a college football studio host for Touchdown Radio Productions.
Prior to arriving in Miami, he was the sports director and senior producer at ABC Radio. White joined 790 The Ticket WAXY-AM in the mid 2000's as the program director. He took over the early afternoon show with Brandon Guzio from May 2009 to late September 2009 then he was let go.
White held several titles at Sports Radio 560 WQAM-AM from late 2009 to early October 2014. He first joined the organization as a salesperson and added on-air duties as a weekend host. He was a late morning show sidekick for Gino Torretta from late 2010 until the end of December 2011. White also worked for Torretta as a college football studio host for Touchdown Radio Productions.
Prior to arriving in Miami, he was the sports director and senior producer at ABC Radio. White joined 790 The Ticket WAXY-AM in the mid 2000's as the program director. He took over the early afternoon show with Brandon Guzio from May 2009 to late September 2009 then he was let go.
Saturday, October 18, 2014
Capitals Slip By Panthers
The Florida Panthers played for the second straight day on the road and were defeated in a shootout by the Washington Capitals 2-1 on Saturday night at Verizon Center. The Cats have scored three goals in their last 4 games. Five games into the 2014-15 season, they tallied just five goals.
Washington(3-2-0) got on the scoreboard first as Jason Chimera got a goal at 17:12 of the opening period by Al Montoya, who made his first start in net with the Panthers.
Florida(1-2-2) matched it on the power play during the third period when Brad Boyes scored at 4:27. Sean Bergenheim and Dylan Olsen were credited with assists on the play.
The game went into a shootout where the Caps scored on all three of their attempts. Evgeny Kuznetsov, Nicklas Backstrom and Alex Ovechkin all converted for the Capitals while Jonathan Huberdeau got the lone tally for the Cats.
Washington(3-2-0) got on the scoreboard first as Jason Chimera got a goal at 17:12 of the opening period by Al Montoya, who made his first start in net with the Panthers.
Florida(1-2-2) matched it on the power play during the third period when Brad Boyes scored at 4:27. Sean Bergenheim and Dylan Olsen were credited with assists on the play.
The game went into a shootout where the Caps scored on all three of their attempts. Evgeny Kuznetsov, Nicklas Backstrom and Alex Ovechkin all converted for the Capitals while Jonathan Huberdeau got the lone tally for the Cats.
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