Philadelphia, PA -- Leonard
Weaver will end his career in Philadelphia.
Weaver, the former Eagles' fullback, revealed on Monday that he will sign a one-day contract and
officially announce his retirement with
the team in a press conference tomorrow
at the NovaCare Complex at 1:00 p.m. (ET) tomorrow.
Armed
with a unique combination of power and
big-play ability out of the fullback
position, Weaver earned a Pro Bowl nod in his first season with
the Eagles in 2009 after leading all NFL
fullbacks in rushing attempts (70) and
yards (323) to go along with four total
touchdowns (two each rushing and receiving).
Originally signed as a free agent by the
Seattle Seahawks in 2005, Weaver played
in 63 games over his six-year
NFL career, accumulating 1,366 total
yards from scrimmage and seven total TDs.
The 30-year-old native of Florida's Space Coast starred as a tight end for Division II
Carson-Newman, earning All-America
honors as a senior after leading the
team with 27 catches for 571 yards and
eight touchdowns.
Monday, April 22, 2013
Union record first ever win in DC
Chester, Pa. – The Philadelphia Union recorded the franchise's first-ever victory in RFK Stadium Sunday afternoon in a 3-2 contest over Eastern Conference rivals D.C. United. The Union scored three goals in the first half, as two from forward Jack McInerney and one from Conor Casey, to move to 3-2-2 (11 points) on the year.
“Right now we separate ourselves from other teams, which is the most important thing,” said Union midfielder Danny Cruz. “We are extremely excited and I am definitely excited about where we are going as a club. We got our first win in D.C. as a club, our first point in Columbus as a club and I think we are doing the right things right now – we need to continue that.”
What the Union had to do was contain a United squad that came out pressing hard and trying to assert itself on the game early. However, it was Jack McInerney who quieted D.C. United after he collected a ball in space and muscled himself past two United defenders to put the Union ahead in just the seventh minute of play. Four minutes later, Casey made it two, but the credit went to a great run from Cruz who cut the ball behind the defender, serving Casey a gift which he coolly finished.
McInerney would then net another in the 26th, pouncing on a loose ball in the box for his sixth goal in MLS regular season play and his third in as many matches.
“Confidence is everything for a young player. If you don’t have it, you are never going to play as good as you can,” McInerney said following the match. “I think scoring obviously raises my confidence and if we keep winning games from me scoring then it’s only going to get better.”
D.C. United would threaten the Union’s cushion as midfielder Perry Kitchen scored in the 18th minute to tie the match, while former Union forward Lionard Pajoy netted his second against the Union and his second of the season. Pajoy put a header near post to get United within one, but a stingy defensive effort headlined by Jeff Parke solidified the Union’s vital three point stand.
“It’s a huge three points,” said Union manager John Hackworth. “It’s on the road and it’s in a place in which we’ve never won before and that massive for us. A little bit of a crazy game, but you would expect nothing else coming down here and having these two teams play. I thought we did some really good things, we didn’t hold [the lead] the way I would have wanted us…but we have three points here and that’s huge.”
Next up for the Union is another road challenge in New England (7:30 p.m., The Comcast Network). The collective mindset is one well aware that the tragic events that took place at the Boston Marathon weigh heavy on a Revs side looking to win one at home for its fans in Foxboro.
“I think we need to sit down and go back to the drawing board and really analyze a game like this,” Cruz said. “Our coaches always prepare us for tough fights and this is going to be another one. We going into next week [against New England] playing a team that is a little bit down right now, but is going to be scrapping just like [D.C. United] did. We just have to be ready.”
BOX SCORE
Philadelphia Union 3, D.C. United 2
Sunday, April 21; 5:00 p.m. ET
RFK Stadium, Washington D.C.
SCORING SUMMARY
PHI: McInerney 7’ (Casey)
PHI: Casey: 11’ (Cruz)
D.C.: Kitchen 17’ (De Rosario, McDonald)
PHI: McInerney 26’ (Okugo, Williams)
D.C.: Pajoy 47’ (Woolard)
DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY
D.C.: Jakovic (caution) 66’
PHI: Casey (time wasting) 92’
UNION STARTING 11
MacMath, Williams, Okugo, Parke, Gaddis, Carroll, Daniel, Cruz (G. Farfan 87’), M.Farfan (Lahoud 68’), McInerney (Hoppenot 67’), Casey
D.C. UNITED STARTING 11
Hamid, Woolard (Ruiz 70’), Korb, Jakovic, McDonald, Kitchen, Saragosa (Rafeal Agusto 45’ [Russel 84’]), Porter, Pontius, Pajoy, De Rosario
“Right now we separate ourselves from other teams, which is the most important thing,” said Union midfielder Danny Cruz. “We are extremely excited and I am definitely excited about where we are going as a club. We got our first win in D.C. as a club, our first point in Columbus as a club and I think we are doing the right things right now – we need to continue that.”
What the Union had to do was contain a United squad that came out pressing hard and trying to assert itself on the game early. However, it was Jack McInerney who quieted D.C. United after he collected a ball in space and muscled himself past two United defenders to put the Union ahead in just the seventh minute of play. Four minutes later, Casey made it two, but the credit went to a great run from Cruz who cut the ball behind the defender, serving Casey a gift which he coolly finished.
McInerney would then net another in the 26th, pouncing on a loose ball in the box for his sixth goal in MLS regular season play and his third in as many matches.
“Confidence is everything for a young player. If you don’t have it, you are never going to play as good as you can,” McInerney said following the match. “I think scoring obviously raises my confidence and if we keep winning games from me scoring then it’s only going to get better.”
D.C. United would threaten the Union’s cushion as midfielder Perry Kitchen scored in the 18th minute to tie the match, while former Union forward Lionard Pajoy netted his second against the Union and his second of the season. Pajoy put a header near post to get United within one, but a stingy defensive effort headlined by Jeff Parke solidified the Union’s vital three point stand.
“It’s a huge three points,” said Union manager John Hackworth. “It’s on the road and it’s in a place in which we’ve never won before and that massive for us. A little bit of a crazy game, but you would expect nothing else coming down here and having these two teams play. I thought we did some really good things, we didn’t hold [the lead] the way I would have wanted us…but we have three points here and that’s huge.”
Next up for the Union is another road challenge in New England (7:30 p.m., The Comcast Network). The collective mindset is one well aware that the tragic events that took place at the Boston Marathon weigh heavy on a Revs side looking to win one at home for its fans in Foxboro.
“I think we need to sit down and go back to the drawing board and really analyze a game like this,” Cruz said. “Our coaches always prepare us for tough fights and this is going to be another one. We going into next week [against New England] playing a team that is a little bit down right now, but is going to be scrapping just like [D.C. United] did. We just have to be ready.”
BOX SCORE
Philadelphia Union 3, D.C. United 2
Sunday, April 21; 5:00 p.m. ET
RFK Stadium, Washington D.C.
SCORING SUMMARY
PHI: McInerney 7’ (Casey)
PHI: Casey: 11’ (Cruz)
D.C.: Kitchen 17’ (De Rosario, McDonald)
PHI: McInerney 26’ (Okugo, Williams)
D.C.: Pajoy 47’ (Woolard)
DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY
D.C.: Jakovic (caution) 66’
PHI: Casey (time wasting) 92’
UNION STARTING 11
MacMath, Williams, Okugo, Parke, Gaddis, Carroll, Daniel, Cruz (G. Farfan 87’), M.Farfan (Lahoud 68’), McInerney (Hoppenot 67’), Casey
D.C. UNITED STARTING 11
Hamid, Woolard (Ruiz 70’), Korb, Jakovic, McDonald, Kitchen, Saragosa (Rafeal Agusto 45’ [Russel 84’]), Porter, Pontius, Pajoy, De Rosario
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Gladiators spoil Soul home opener
PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Soul squandered a 14-point lead early in the second half as Cleveland Gladiators came back to defeat the Soul, 64-57, in overtime in front of 12,975 fans at the Wells Fargo Center on Saturday night.
“We didn’t play our offense,” explains Soul head coach Clint Dolezel. “We just didn’t show up like we were supposed to. There were too many penalties – off-sides and holding penalties. It’s embarrassing playing the way we did in front of our fans. We have a lot to improve with Jacksonville coming into town. They’re playing great football and we’re going to need to step it up.”
Soul QB Dan Raudabaugh guided the Philadelphia offense in this matchup by connecting on 31-of-50 passes for 306 yards and five touchdowns.
Tiger Jones led Philadelphia (2-2) receivers with 13 receptions for 143 yards and three touchdowns. Andrae Thurman had nine catches for 82 yards and touchdown, while Larry Brackins recorded two receptions for 24 yards and a touchdown. Alvance Robinson hauled in four catches for 50 yards and accounted for eight kick returns for 122 yards.
On the ground, Derrick Ross finished the game with 17 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns.
Defensively, DB LaRico Stevenson recorded 5.0 tackles, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery for a touchdown that earned the Spalding Highlight of the Game. LB Joe Goosby led the defense with eight tackles and an interception.
Cleveland’s Brian Zbydniewski connected on 24-of-33 passes for 316 yards and eight touchdowns on his way to earning the Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Game. J Lewis Small AFL Playmaker of the Game Thyron Lewis led the Cleveland (1-3) receivers with six receptions for 122 yards and four touchdowns. Lenny Wicks led Cleveland’s defensive with nine tackles.
Cleveland scored on the beginning series of the game with a six yard pass from Zbydniewski to Jonathon Wilson. Philadelphia responded with a nine-play, 47-yard drive to score on a two-yard run by FB Derrick Ross. On the following kickoff, Soul DB LaRico Stevenson forced a fumble and recovered the ball to score on a 7-yard touchdown return. The fumble recovery capped the first quarter with Philadelphia leading 14-7.
In the second quarter, Philadelphia’s WRs Tiger Jones and Larry Brackins caught two touchdowns while FB Derrick Ross ran in a touchdown. Cleveland’s WR Thyron Lewis accounted for two touchdowns. The first half ended with both teams scoring 35 combined points in the second quarter and Philadelphia leading 35-21.
During the third quarter, Cleveland forced two turnovers, with DB Maurice Williams and DB Brandon Anderson intercepting Raudabaugh. The turnovers were followed by Cleveland scoring 14 unanswered points on an 11 and 17-yard touchdown receptions by WR Jamar Howard. At the end of the third, the game was tied 35-35.
Philadelphia and Cleveland went back-and-forth in the fourth, as both teams scored 22 points. With ten seconds left, Tiger Jones scored his third touchdown of the night and gave Philadelphia a three point lead. Cleveland’s K Ross Gornall kicked a 45-yard field goal with no time remaining to send the game to overtime.
With the first possession, Cleveland scored on a 16-yard catch by Lewis. Philadelphia was unable to score on their possession, losing the game by missing the fourth down conversion.
The Soul will host the Jacksonville Sharks on Saturday, April 27 at 7:05 p.m. ET at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, PA. The game can be seen on Comcast Sports Network.
“We didn’t play our offense,” explains Soul head coach Clint Dolezel. “We just didn’t show up like we were supposed to. There were too many penalties – off-sides and holding penalties. It’s embarrassing playing the way we did in front of our fans. We have a lot to improve with Jacksonville coming into town. They’re playing great football and we’re going to need to step it up.”
Soul QB Dan Raudabaugh guided the Philadelphia offense in this matchup by connecting on 31-of-50 passes for 306 yards and five touchdowns.
Tiger Jones led Philadelphia (2-2) receivers with 13 receptions for 143 yards and three touchdowns. Andrae Thurman had nine catches for 82 yards and touchdown, while Larry Brackins recorded two receptions for 24 yards and a touchdown. Alvance Robinson hauled in four catches for 50 yards and accounted for eight kick returns for 122 yards.
On the ground, Derrick Ross finished the game with 17 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns.
Defensively, DB LaRico Stevenson recorded 5.0 tackles, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery for a touchdown that earned the Spalding Highlight of the Game. LB Joe Goosby led the defense with eight tackles and an interception.
Cleveland’s Brian Zbydniewski connected on 24-of-33 passes for 316 yards and eight touchdowns on his way to earning the Russell Athletic Offensive Player of the Game. J Lewis Small AFL Playmaker of the Game Thyron Lewis led the Cleveland (1-3) receivers with six receptions for 122 yards and four touchdowns. Lenny Wicks led Cleveland’s defensive with nine tackles.
Cleveland scored on the beginning series of the game with a six yard pass from Zbydniewski to Jonathon Wilson. Philadelphia responded with a nine-play, 47-yard drive to score on a two-yard run by FB Derrick Ross. On the following kickoff, Soul DB LaRico Stevenson forced a fumble and recovered the ball to score on a 7-yard touchdown return. The fumble recovery capped the first quarter with Philadelphia leading 14-7.
In the second quarter, Philadelphia’s WRs Tiger Jones and Larry Brackins caught two touchdowns while FB Derrick Ross ran in a touchdown. Cleveland’s WR Thyron Lewis accounted for two touchdowns. The first half ended with both teams scoring 35 combined points in the second quarter and Philadelphia leading 35-21.
During the third quarter, Cleveland forced two turnovers, with DB Maurice Williams and DB Brandon Anderson intercepting Raudabaugh. The turnovers were followed by Cleveland scoring 14 unanswered points on an 11 and 17-yard touchdown receptions by WR Jamar Howard. At the end of the third, the game was tied 35-35.
Philadelphia and Cleveland went back-and-forth in the fourth, as both teams scored 22 points. With ten seconds left, Tiger Jones scored his third touchdown of the night and gave Philadelphia a three point lead. Cleveland’s K Ross Gornall kicked a 45-yard field goal with no time remaining to send the game to overtime.
With the first possession, Cleveland scored on a 16-yard catch by Lewis. Philadelphia was unable to score on their possession, losing the game by missing the fourth down conversion.
The Soul will host the Jacksonville Sharks on Saturday, April 27 at 7:05 p.m. ET at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, PA. The game can be seen on Comcast Sports Network.
White tops Cherry in Temple Spring Game
PHILADELPHIA – Senior Chris Coyer caught two touchdown passes from junior QB Connor Reilly as the White squad beat the Cherry, 34-28, in Temple's annual spring football game on Saturday before 3,530 fans at Edberg-Olson Hall.
The White team, captained by OL Cody Booth, jumped on the scoreboard quickly, scoring three touchdowns in the first quarter. Reilly’s 11-yard pass to Coyer capped a four-play, 80-yard drive. Junior RB Kenny Harper had a two-yard rushing score, followed by an eight-yard TD pass from Reilly to junior TE Wanemi Omuso.
The Cherry squad, under the guidance of captain DB Zamel Johnson, rallied for three consecutive TDs in the second stanza. Senior QB Juice Ganger hit sophomore WR Romond Deloatch with a 6-yard pass, before finding sophomore WR Khalif Herbin with a 13-yard TD pass. Sophomore RB Hassan Dixon tied the game at 21-21 before halftime with a one-yard score.
In the third quarter, Reilly found senior WR Ryan Alderman with a 33-yard TD reception to put White ahead, 28-21.
In the final quarter, Reilly connected with Coyer again, this time on a 65-yard pass play. Cherry responded with a 62-yard TD reception from Granger to redshirt freshman Nathan Hairston for the game’s final score.
For White, Harper was the top rusher with 21 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries. Reilly went 25-of-41 for 366 yards and four touchdowns. Alderman was the receiving leader with five catches for 90 yards and a touchdown. Redshirt freshman LB Haason Reddick was the top defensive player with eight tackles and two break-ups.
For Cherry, sophomore RB Jamie Gilmore led the rushing efforts with eight carries for 25 yards. Granger went 26-of-44 for 302 yards and three touchdowns. Hairston was the top receiver with six catches for 132 yards and a touchdown. Sophomore LB Tyler Matakevich led all defensive players with nine solo tackles and a break-up.
Following the coin toss, five players were recognized as the team’s annual spring award winners. Sophomore DL Shahbaz Ahmed earned the Mark Bresani Award for spirit and enthusiasm. Redshirt freshman LB Haason Reddick was awarded the Gavin White Local 215 Award, presented to the most improved non-scholarship player. Sophomore DL Hershey Walton was the most improved defensive player, while junior QB Connor Reilly earned most improved offensive player accolades. Senior WR Ryan Alderman was the recipient the Owl Club academic award for sporting the highest grade-point average.
The Owls open the 2013 season at Notre Dame on August 31. Temple’s home opener is set for Sept. 7 at Lincoln Financial Field with Houston in American Athletic Conference action.
The White team, captained by OL Cody Booth, jumped on the scoreboard quickly, scoring three touchdowns in the first quarter. Reilly’s 11-yard pass to Coyer capped a four-play, 80-yard drive. Junior RB Kenny Harper had a two-yard rushing score, followed by an eight-yard TD pass from Reilly to junior TE Wanemi Omuso.
The Cherry squad, under the guidance of captain DB Zamel Johnson, rallied for three consecutive TDs in the second stanza. Senior QB Juice Ganger hit sophomore WR Romond Deloatch with a 6-yard pass, before finding sophomore WR Khalif Herbin with a 13-yard TD pass. Sophomore RB Hassan Dixon tied the game at 21-21 before halftime with a one-yard score.
In the third quarter, Reilly found senior WR Ryan Alderman with a 33-yard TD reception to put White ahead, 28-21.
In the final quarter, Reilly connected with Coyer again, this time on a 65-yard pass play. Cherry responded with a 62-yard TD reception from Granger to redshirt freshman Nathan Hairston for the game’s final score.
For White, Harper was the top rusher with 21 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries. Reilly went 25-of-41 for 366 yards and four touchdowns. Alderman was the receiving leader with five catches for 90 yards and a touchdown. Redshirt freshman LB Haason Reddick was the top defensive player with eight tackles and two break-ups.
For Cherry, sophomore RB Jamie Gilmore led the rushing efforts with eight carries for 25 yards. Granger went 26-of-44 for 302 yards and three touchdowns. Hairston was the top receiver with six catches for 132 yards and a touchdown. Sophomore LB Tyler Matakevich led all defensive players with nine solo tackles and a break-up.
Following the coin toss, five players were recognized as the team’s annual spring award winners. Sophomore DL Shahbaz Ahmed earned the Mark Bresani Award for spirit and enthusiasm. Redshirt freshman LB Haason Reddick was awarded the Gavin White Local 215 Award, presented to the most improved non-scholarship player. Sophomore DL Hershey Walton was the most improved defensive player, while junior QB Connor Reilly earned most improved offensive player accolades. Senior WR Ryan Alderman was the recipient the Owl Club academic award for sporting the highest grade-point average.
The Owls open the 2013 season at Notre Dame on August 31. Temple’s home opener is set for Sept. 7 at Lincoln Financial Field with Houston in American Athletic Conference action.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Soul set for home opener vs. Cleveland
PHILADELPHIA - The Philadelphia Soul are heading into this week’s match-up against the Cleveland Gladiators looking for their third consecutive win of the season. For the Gladiators, it’s been a rough start to the season as they’ve lost their first three games by an average of 22 points.
Last week was special for Philadelphia Soul head coach Clint Dolezel, as he was announced as one of the members of the Arena Football Hall of Fame Class of 2012. Dolezel, in his first season as head coach of the Soul, is 13-8 as head coach (13-9 overall). Steve Thorn is the head coach for the Cleveland Gladiators. He is 49-77 (51-80 overall) throughout his nine-year coaching career. These two teams split their two meetings last season with the road team winning each contest.
“We’ve been watching film, and Cleveland is definitely not a 0-3 team,” explained Soul head coach Clint Dolezel. “I think they are as good as we are, we’re going to have our hands full in this match-up. The key to winning this game is taking care of the ball. We haven’t done a good job so far this season in doing that; luckily our defense has been playing well. Both sides of the ball are going to need to come out this week for us to win this game.”
The Soul enter the game 2-1 on the season, having defeated the Iowa Barnstormers 54-43 last week and now hold a two-game lead in the East Division. Cleveland is coming off their bye week after starting the season 0-3. Philadelphia’s strength has been their stout defense, which is No. 1 in rush defense (7.0), No. 4 in pass defense (230.7) and No. 2 in total defense at (237.7). The Soul’s running game has also been one of their strengths, led by Derrick Ross, who ranks No. 3 in the entire league in rushing yards per game (29.3).
Philadelphia will look to take advantage of the Cleveland’s porous defense that ranks No. 12 in pass defense (307.7) and last in rush defense (33.3) and scoring defense (67.3). Since the beginning of last season, Philadelphia has allowed quarterback Dan Raudabaugh to be sacked just six times. This has allowed their offense to average 7.2 yards per play, No. 3 in the league this season. Raudabaugh ranks No. 3 in completion percentage (69.1) and No. 6 in total offensive yards per game (281.0).
Cleveland has an opportunity to win by creating turnovers against Philadelphia. The Soul rank No. 12 in turnover margin (-5) and have turned the ball over nine times in three games. However, the Soul have forced eight stops on downs to make up for the turnover deficit. The Gladiators rank No. 5 in rushing offense (20.3) and are tied for No. 3 with seven rushing touchdowns. Should Philadelphia turn the ball over in the red zone, Cleveland will look to capitalize with their red zone offense that ranks No. 4 in the league (87.5%).
This match-up comes down to Philadelphia’s defense shutting down Cleveland’s offense. If Philadelphia’s defense maintains their high level of play, it will be tough for Cleveland unless the Soul start to turn the ball over.
Last week was special for Philadelphia Soul head coach Clint Dolezel, as he was announced as one of the members of the Arena Football Hall of Fame Class of 2012. Dolezel, in his first season as head coach of the Soul, is 13-8 as head coach (13-9 overall). Steve Thorn is the head coach for the Cleveland Gladiators. He is 49-77 (51-80 overall) throughout his nine-year coaching career. These two teams split their two meetings last season with the road team winning each contest.
“We’ve been watching film, and Cleveland is definitely not a 0-3 team,” explained Soul head coach Clint Dolezel. “I think they are as good as we are, we’re going to have our hands full in this match-up. The key to winning this game is taking care of the ball. We haven’t done a good job so far this season in doing that; luckily our defense has been playing well. Both sides of the ball are going to need to come out this week for us to win this game.”
The Soul enter the game 2-1 on the season, having defeated the Iowa Barnstormers 54-43 last week and now hold a two-game lead in the East Division. Cleveland is coming off their bye week after starting the season 0-3. Philadelphia’s strength has been their stout defense, which is No. 1 in rush defense (7.0), No. 4 in pass defense (230.7) and No. 2 in total defense at (237.7). The Soul’s running game has also been one of their strengths, led by Derrick Ross, who ranks No. 3 in the entire league in rushing yards per game (29.3).
Philadelphia will look to take advantage of the Cleveland’s porous defense that ranks No. 12 in pass defense (307.7) and last in rush defense (33.3) and scoring defense (67.3). Since the beginning of last season, Philadelphia has allowed quarterback Dan Raudabaugh to be sacked just six times. This has allowed their offense to average 7.2 yards per play, No. 3 in the league this season. Raudabaugh ranks No. 3 in completion percentage (69.1) and No. 6 in total offensive yards per game (281.0).
Cleveland has an opportunity to win by creating turnovers against Philadelphia. The Soul rank No. 12 in turnover margin (-5) and have turned the ball over nine times in three games. However, the Soul have forced eight stops on downs to make up for the turnover deficit. The Gladiators rank No. 5 in rushing offense (20.3) and are tied for No. 3 with seven rushing touchdowns. Should Philadelphia turn the ball over in the red zone, Cleveland will look to capitalize with their red zone offense that ranks No. 4 in the league (87.5%).
This match-up comes down to Philadelphia’s defense shutting down Cleveland’s offense. If Philadelphia’s defense maintains their high level of play, it will be tough for Cleveland unless the Soul start to turn the ball over.
Temple announces Cherry and White rosters
PHILADELPHIA – Temple has announced its rosters for the annual Cherry & White Game on Saturday, April 20, at 1 p.m. at Edberg-Olson Hall.
The Cherry squad, coached by Phil Snow [DC], Ed Foley [Asst. HC/TE], Brandon Noble [DL], and Terry Smith [WR], as well as graduate assistants Evan Cooper and Adam DiMichele, features senior DL Levi Brown, senior LB Blaze Caponegro, sophomore WR Romond Deloatch, senior QB Juice Granger, senior DB Zamel Johnson, and sophomore LB Tyler Matakevich.
The White squad, coached by Marcus Satterfield [OC], Francis Brown [DB], Tyree Foreman [RB], Allen Mogridge [OL], and Mike Siravo [LB], as well as graduate assistants Shawn Bryson and Colin Clancy, features senior LB Wyatt Benson, junior DB Daquan Cooper, senior QB Chris Coyer, sophomore OL Kyle Friend, junior QB Connor Reilly, and senior OL Scott Roorda.
Format for the scrimmage includes 15-minute quarters and normal game scoring. There will be live kickoffs and punting.
The Cherry squad, coached by Phil Snow [DC], Ed Foley [Asst. HC/TE], Brandon Noble [DL], and Terry Smith [WR], as well as graduate assistants Evan Cooper and Adam DiMichele, features senior DL Levi Brown, senior LB Blaze Caponegro, sophomore WR Romond Deloatch, senior QB Juice Granger, senior DB Zamel Johnson, and sophomore LB Tyler Matakevich.
The White squad, coached by Marcus Satterfield [OC], Francis Brown [DB], Tyree Foreman [RB], Allen Mogridge [OL], and Mike Siravo [LB], as well as graduate assistants Shawn Bryson and Colin Clancy, features senior LB Wyatt Benson, junior DB Daquan Cooper, senior QB Chris Coyer, sophomore OL Kyle Friend, junior QB Connor Reilly, and senior OL Scott Roorda.
Format for the scrimmage includes 15-minute quarters and normal game scoring. There will be live kickoffs and punting.
Chennault to transfer from Villanova
VILLANOVA, Pa. – Guard Tony Chennault has informed the Villanova coaching staff of his plans to transfer to another university after one season as a Wildcat.
Chennault, a native of Philadelphia, played his first two seasons at Wake Forest University before transferring to Villanova prior to the 2012-13 academic year.
“We are going to miss Tony,” stated Villanova head coach Jay Wright. “He was a major part of our run to the NCAA Tournament last season. We respect Tony’s decision and he will always be a part of the Nova Nation.”
Chennault appeared in all 34 games Villanova played in 2012-13 as a reserve after receiving a hardship waiver from the NCAA. He averaged 3.6 points, 1.8 rebounds and 18.5 minutes per game. The product of Neumann-Goretti High School scored a season-high 11 points at Monmouth on Dec. 22 and added 10 points and four rebounds in a February victory at DePaul.
Chennault plans to complete the spring academic semester at Villanova.
Chennault, a native of Philadelphia, played his first two seasons at Wake Forest University before transferring to Villanova prior to the 2012-13 academic year.
“We are going to miss Tony,” stated Villanova head coach Jay Wright. “He was a major part of our run to the NCAA Tournament last season. We respect Tony’s decision and he will always be a part of the Nova Nation.”
Chennault appeared in all 34 games Villanova played in 2012-13 as a reserve after receiving a hardship waiver from the NCAA. He averaged 3.6 points, 1.8 rebounds and 18.5 minutes per game. The product of Neumann-Goretti High School scored a season-high 11 points at Monmouth on Dec. 22 and added 10 points and four rebounds in a February victory at DePaul.
Chennault plans to complete the spring academic semester at Villanova.
Union to host Star Wars Day
The game, a 4 p.m. kickoff, will feature interactive games, contests and promotional giveaways in conjunction with the iconic film series created by George Lucas.
Union fans attending the match will have the opportunity to watch pre-game training from field level, as the first 100 participants to check in for a Star Wars costume contest will receive access. Additionally, one grand-prize winner from the contest will be named honorary captain for the match and participate in pre-game ceremonies on the field.
Philadelphia Union also have a special “May the 4th Pack” available for fans interested in attending the match. Four tickets and four limited-edition Star Wars-themed Union T-Shirts displaying “MAY THE FORCE BE WITH DOOP” on the front will be available for $150. The limited-edition T-Shirts will also be for sale that day in the Union Shop with all proceeds benefitting the Philadelphia Union Foundation.
Collins steps down as Sixers coach
PHILADELPHIA - Philadelphia 76ers owner Josh Harris has announced that Doug Collins is stepping down as the team's head coach.
Collins had one year remaining on a four-year contract and will remain with the organization in a personal adviser to Harris.
"This is his decision," said Harris. "He is not being pushed out."
The 76ers were 34-48 this season, ending a disappointing campaign on Wednesday with a 105-95 win over Indiana. Philadelphia reached the playoffs in each of Collins' first two seasons, including a trip to the Eastern Conference semifinals last spring.
Overall, Collins guided the Sixers to a mark of 110-120 in three seasons, along with eight playoff wins during his first two seasons as coach. In the 2011-12 Philadelphia upset the injury-ravaged Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference quarterfinals before taking the favored Boston Celtics to seven games in the semis.
"I was not going to base this on winning and losing. There are a lot of things I want to enjoy," said Collins, who added he was now planning to watch his son, Chris, start his first season as head coach at Northwestern. "I want to see him grow. I want to see him coach."
Collins, who claims he made the decision to walk away in December but did not share it with his players, indicated that this will be his last coaching stop. He posted a record of 442-407 with the Bulls (1986-89), Pistons (1995-98), Wizards (2001-03) and Sixers. His teams have been to the playoffs seven times, going as far as the conference finals with the Bulls in the spring of 1989.
The 62-year-old Hall of Fame broadcaster spent his entire NBA playing career with the 76ers (1973-81) and averaged 17.9 points a game. He was the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1973.
"We wanted Doug to come back," Harris stressed. "At the same time, I respect his decision as a man."
The Sixers followed last year's successful playoff run by acquiring Andrew Bynum from the Lakers as part of a four-team blockbuster deal in August. Bynum, however, never played a game for the 76ers because of knee issues.
"Did we have the year we wanted to have? Absolutely not, but a lot of that was out of our control," Collins stated, not mentioning Bynum by name. "We swung for the fences and it didn't work. We took a chance and it didn't work out. Now we have to move forward."
Bynum, who had setback after setback before undergoing season-ending surgery in March, is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
Philadelphia shipped out Andre Iguodala as well as rookie Moe Harkless and emerging second-year star Nikola Vucevic to acquire Bynum and Jason Richardson, whose season also ended early because of knee surgery.
Collins had one year remaining on a four-year contract and will remain with the organization in a personal adviser to Harris.
"This is his decision," said Harris. "He is not being pushed out."
The 76ers were 34-48 this season, ending a disappointing campaign on Wednesday with a 105-95 win over Indiana. Philadelphia reached the playoffs in each of Collins' first two seasons, including a trip to the Eastern Conference semifinals last spring.
Overall, Collins guided the Sixers to a mark of 110-120 in three seasons, along with eight playoff wins during his first two seasons as coach. In the 2011-12 Philadelphia upset the injury-ravaged Chicago Bulls in the Eastern Conference quarterfinals before taking the favored Boston Celtics to seven games in the semis.
"I was not going to base this on winning and losing. There are a lot of things I want to enjoy," said Collins, who added he was now planning to watch his son, Chris, start his first season as head coach at Northwestern. "I want to see him grow. I want to see him coach."
Collins, who claims he made the decision to walk away in December but did not share it with his players, indicated that this will be his last coaching stop. He posted a record of 442-407 with the Bulls (1986-89), Pistons (1995-98), Wizards (2001-03) and Sixers. His teams have been to the playoffs seven times, going as far as the conference finals with the Bulls in the spring of 1989.
The 62-year-old Hall of Fame broadcaster spent his entire NBA playing career with the 76ers (1973-81) and averaged 17.9 points a game. He was the No. 1 overall draft pick in 1973.
"We wanted Doug to come back," Harris stressed. "At the same time, I respect his decision as a man."
The Sixers followed last year's successful playoff run by acquiring Andrew Bynum from the Lakers as part of a four-team blockbuster deal in August. Bynum, however, never played a game for the 76ers because of knee issues.
"Did we have the year we wanted to have? Absolutely not, but a lot of that was out of our control," Collins stated, not mentioning Bynum by name. "We swung for the fences and it didn't work. We took a chance and it didn't work out. Now we have to move forward."
Bynum, who had setback after setback before undergoing season-ending surgery in March, is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
Philadelphia shipped out Andre Iguodala as well as rookie Moe Harkless and emerging second-year star Nikola Vucevic to acquire Bynum and Jason Richardson, whose season also ended early because of knee surgery.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Rinaldo, Rosehill given contract extensions; White pays for Huskins hit
News abounds on this beautiful Wednesday evening.
First up, retaining some muscle.
The Philadelphia Flyers announced two-year contract extensions with forwards Zac Rinaldo and Jay Rosehill
Rinaldo totaled three goals and five points with 85 penalty minutes in 32 games for the club this season, but hasn't played since April 3 due to a high left ankle sprain. He was due to become a restricted free agent following the completion of the season.
In 98 NHL games over the last two years, the 22-year-old native of the Toronto
area has compiled five goals, 14 points and 317 PIM.
Rosehill was acquired from Anaheim on April 1, picking up one goal and 47 PIM in seven appearances for Philadelphia. He was set to become an unrestricted free agent.
A former seventh-round pick of Tampa Bay in 2003, Rosehill has three goals and six assists along with 245 minutes in penalties over 79 NHL contests.
Next, justice is served.
The National Hockey League dished out a five-game suspension to Montreal Canadiens forward Ryan White on Wednesday afternoon, for an illegal check to the head of Philadelphia defenseman Kent Huskins.
The incident occurred 6:11 into the first period of Monday’s 7-3 Philadelphia victory, when White reached out and used his elbow to subdue Huskins instead of using bodily contact.
Huskins suffered a concussion on the play, and is out indefinitely. White was assessed a match penalty and game misconduct, then told he would have to face an in-person hearing at league offices in New York for his conduct.
He will forfeit $18,581.10, which automatically goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund, and not be eligible to return until the Habs’ regular-season finale against Toronto on April 27.
First up, retaining some muscle.
The Philadelphia Flyers announced two-year contract extensions with forwards Zac Rinaldo and Jay Rosehill
Rinaldo totaled three goals and five points with 85 penalty minutes in 32 games for the club this season, but hasn't played since April 3 due to a high left ankle sprain. He was due to become a restricted free agent following the completion of the season.
In 98 NHL games over the last two years, the 22-year-old native of the Toronto
area has compiled five goals, 14 points and 317 PIM.
Rosehill was acquired from Anaheim on April 1, picking up one goal and 47 PIM in seven appearances for Philadelphia. He was set to become an unrestricted free agent.
A former seventh-round pick of Tampa Bay in 2003, Rosehill has three goals and six assists along with 245 minutes in penalties over 79 NHL contests.
Next, justice is served.
The National Hockey League dished out a five-game suspension to Montreal Canadiens forward Ryan White on Wednesday afternoon, for an illegal check to the head of Philadelphia defenseman Kent Huskins.
The incident occurred 6:11 into the first period of Monday’s 7-3 Philadelphia victory, when White reached out and used his elbow to subdue Huskins instead of using bodily contact.
Huskins suffered a concussion on the play, and is out indefinitely. White was assessed a match penalty and game misconduct, then told he would have to face an in-person hearing at league offices in New York for his conduct.
He will forfeit $18,581.10, which automatically goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund, and not be eligible to return until the Habs’ regular-season finale against Toronto on April 27.
Former UFC star Fitch to headline WSOF 3
LAS VEGAS, Nev. –World Series of Fighting will The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas for its latest Mixed Martial Arts event, headlined by a welterweight (170 pounds) rematch between Jon Fitch (24-5) and Josh Burkman (25-9) on Friday, June 14.
The show will be televised live on NBC Sports Network, beginning at 11 p.m. ET.
In the light heavyweight (205 pounds) co-main event, hard-hitting, 27-year-old Tyrone Spong (1-0), a decorated champion and veteran of 77 professional kickboxing bouts, will make his much-anticipated, second start under MMA rules against fellow KO artist Angel DeAnda (11-2). DeAnda has scored TKOs in 10 of his 11 career victories, including his last four starts.
The show will be televised live on NBC Sports Network, beginning at 11 p.m. ET.
In the light heavyweight (205 pounds) co-main event, hard-hitting, 27-year-old Tyrone Spong (1-0), a decorated champion and veteran of 77 professional kickboxing bouts, will make his much-anticipated, second start under MMA rules against fellow KO artist Angel DeAnda (11-2). DeAnda has scored TKOs in 10 of his 11 career victories, including his last four starts.
Soul's Goosby named AFL Defensive Player of the Week
CHICAGO – Philadelphia Soul jack linebacker Joe Goosby has been named the AFL Defensive Player of the Week.
Goosby (6-foot-1, 245) recorded new career-highs with three tackles for loss and two sacks in Philadelphia’s 54-43 victory over the Iowa Barnstormers in the 2013 Hall of Fame Game.
The third-year pro’s big plays came when the Soul needed them most, as Goosby halted the Barnstormers behind the line of scrimmage on third and fourth down-and-goal on a critical third quarter drive, which shifted the momentum permanently back to Philadelphia.
Goosby (6-foot-1, 245) recorded new career-highs with three tackles for loss and two sacks in Philadelphia’s 54-43 victory over the Iowa Barnstormers in the 2013 Hall of Fame Game.
The third-year pro’s big plays came when the Soul needed them most, as Goosby halted the Barnstormers behind the line of scrimmage on third and fourth down-and-goal on a critical third quarter drive, which shifted the momentum permanently back to Philadelphia.
Temple's Cherry & White Game set for Saturday
PHILADELPHIA – Temple football’s annual Cherry & White Game is this Saturday, April 20 at 1 p.m. at the Edberg-Olson Football Complex (10th & Diamond Streets).
FAN GUIDE:
FESTIVAL: The Street Fair [Diamond Street between 10th & 11th Streets] opens at 11 a.m.
KICKOFF: 1 p.m.
PLACE: Edberg-Olson Football Complex
PARKING: Parking is FREE in the Liacouras Garage (courtesy of the Alumni Association). Lots on campus will charge $10 to park. There is no overnight parking.
TICKETS: Admission is FREE. However, fans will receive a FREE raffle TICKET upon entrance to the complex for a chance to receive tickets to a future game.
GATES: The gate to Edberg-Olson Hall will open at Noon.
SEATING: There will be bleacher seating in the North endzone (first-come, first served.)
PROHIBITED ITEMS & BEHAVIORS:
• Smoking
• Alcohol
• Bags larger than 12 x 12 x 12
• Animals (except service animals)
• Umbrellas
• Thermoses
• Coolers
• Fireworks, firearms and weapons of any kind
• Noisemakers
• Video cameras and the use of video capable cell phones
• Abusive, foul or disruptive language
• Throwing Objects
• Footballs
• Trespassing, soliciting, peddling and loitering
• Any other item or action deemed dangerous or inappropriate
• Guests who appear to be inebriated will not be admitted into the complex.
FAN GUIDE:
FESTIVAL: The Street Fair [Diamond Street between 10th & 11th Streets] opens at 11 a.m.
KICKOFF: 1 p.m.
PLACE: Edberg-Olson Football Complex
PARKING: Parking is FREE in the Liacouras Garage (courtesy of the Alumni Association). Lots on campus will charge $10 to park. There is no overnight parking.
TICKETS: Admission is FREE. However, fans will receive a FREE raffle TICKET upon entrance to the complex for a chance to receive tickets to a future game.
GATES: The gate to Edberg-Olson Hall will open at Noon.
SEATING: There will be bleacher seating in the North endzone (first-come, first served.)
PROHIBITED ITEMS & BEHAVIORS:
• Smoking
• Alcohol
• Bags larger than 12 x 12 x 12
• Animals (except service animals)
• Umbrellas
• Thermoses
• Coolers
• Fireworks, firearms and weapons of any kind
• Noisemakers
• Video cameras and the use of video capable cell phones
• Abusive, foul or disruptive language
• Throwing Objects
• Footballs
• Trespassing, soliciting, peddling and loitering
• Any other item or action deemed dangerous or inappropriate
• Guests who appear to be inebriated will not be admitted into the complex.
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Mason crafts Flyers win over Rangers; playoffs still viable
Special to the Phanatic
Philadelphia, PA -- Steve Mason posted 38 saves to notch his first victory as a Flyer and help Philadelphia keep its slim playoff chances alive with a 4-2 triumph over the New York Rangers on Tuesday at Wells Fargo Center.
Mason had dropped back-to-back decisions since coming over from Columbus on April 3, but the 24-year-old netminder turned away all but one of the 17 shots he faced in the third to send the Flyers to their second straight victory.
After 43 games, the hosts finally saw one of their backups record a victory. Michael Leighton and Brian Boucher failed in their lone chances, while Mason came up empty in two previous starts on the road.
"It was an important game for myself and the team," Mason said. "This was a must-win in terms of the playoff race with them being in the eighth playoff spot right now. That was a big win."
Kimmo Timonen tallied a goal and an assist, while Brayden Schenn, Erik Gustafsson and Jakub Voracek each scored once for Philadelphia, which moved within five points of the Rangers for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with five games left.
Derek Stepan and Mats Zuccarello netted a goal apiece, while Henrik Lundqvist allowed three goals on 21 shots for the Rangers, who had won two straight.
"We just couldn't solve Mason," Rangers coach John Tortorella admitted. "We developed some offense, we couldn't solve Mason."
With 46 points, New York sits tied with Winnipeg, which beat Tampa Bay Tuesday, for the No. 8 seed in the East. The Rangers, though, do have a game in hand.
The Orange and Black would have to win out, while seeing the Rangers and Jets suffer through a near-total collapse, in order to reach the playoffs for a sixth consecutive season.
New York cut into its deficit just 2:54 into the second when Zuccarello fired a wrister from the right circle that whizzed past Mason to make it 2-1, but the Flyers answered at the midpoint of the frame on Timonen's fifth of the year.
After Rangers winger Ryan Clowe was whistled for boarding at the 9:42 mark, Claude Giroux won an offensive zone faceoff back to the high slot, where Timonen stepped into a one-timer that beat Lundqvist low to the far side to restore Philadelphia's two-goal lead at the halfway point of the contest.
The Rangers again pulled within a goal at the 7:28 mark of the third when Stepan recovered a bouncing puck in the slot and pounded it past Mason.
However, Mason, who appeared to sustain a lower-body injury during the Rangers' third-period flurry, was able to fight through the pain and keep the visitors off the board before Voracek added an empty-netter with 14 seconds left.
“Oh yeah, you know, he was exactly the same as he was in the first year when he won the Rookie of the Year," Voracek said of his former, and now current teammate. "And, you know, he was all over the place. He made a huge stop for us and he was a big key for us, too and winning two more points today.”
Philadelphia struck first near the midpoint of the opening frame, as Brandon Manning fired a shot from the high slot that was knocked down, but Schenn recovered the loose puck on the left wing and buried a wrister past Lundqvist to make it 1-0 at the 9:28 mark.
The Flyers doubled their edge late in the frame when Gustafsson rifled a one-timer from the top of the right circle that sailed past Lundqvist on the short side for a 2-0 lead at 17:21.
"Yeah every game is a playoff game we know that. It's so tight battling for that playoff spot," noted Rangers captain Ryan Callahan. "Every point is really important right now. We have to put this behind us and we got another huge game Thursday. We can't dwell on it. We have to move forward."
Notes: New York had won three straight against Philadelphia...Manning's assist on Schenn's goal was his first NHL point...He was recalled, along with defenseman Matt Konan (who did not play) from Adirondack of the AHL after the absences of Kent Huskins due to a concussion suffered in Monday's win at Montreal, plus the revelation that Bruno Gervais will be lost for the rest of the season following surgery to correct a stomach muscle problem...Philadelphia improved to 13-6-2 at home, while the Rangers dropped to 8-11-2 on the road...Philadelphia went 1- for-2 on the power play ... New York failed on all five of its chances with the man advantage...Voracek's goal was his 19th of the season to set a new career high...Claude Giroux was 18-for-27 on faceoffs (67 percent) , leading the Flyers to a 57-percent night as a team (40 for 70).
Philadelphia, PA -- Steve Mason posted 38 saves to notch his first victory as a Flyer and help Philadelphia keep its slim playoff chances alive with a 4-2 triumph over the New York Rangers on Tuesday at Wells Fargo Center.
Mason had dropped back-to-back decisions since coming over from Columbus on April 3, but the 24-year-old netminder turned away all but one of the 17 shots he faced in the third to send the Flyers to their second straight victory.
After 43 games, the hosts finally saw one of their backups record a victory. Michael Leighton and Brian Boucher failed in their lone chances, while Mason came up empty in two previous starts on the road.
"It was an important game for myself and the team," Mason said. "This was a must-win in terms of the playoff race with them being in the eighth playoff spot right now. That was a big win."
Kimmo Timonen tallied a goal and an assist, while Brayden Schenn, Erik Gustafsson and Jakub Voracek each scored once for Philadelphia, which moved within five points of the Rangers for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with five games left.
Derek Stepan and Mats Zuccarello netted a goal apiece, while Henrik Lundqvist allowed three goals on 21 shots for the Rangers, who had won two straight.
"We just couldn't solve Mason," Rangers coach John Tortorella admitted. "We developed some offense, we couldn't solve Mason."
With 46 points, New York sits tied with Winnipeg, which beat Tampa Bay Tuesday, for the No. 8 seed in the East. The Rangers, though, do have a game in hand.
The Orange and Black would have to win out, while seeing the Rangers and Jets suffer through a near-total collapse, in order to reach the playoffs for a sixth consecutive season.
New York cut into its deficit just 2:54 into the second when Zuccarello fired a wrister from the right circle that whizzed past Mason to make it 2-1, but the Flyers answered at the midpoint of the frame on Timonen's fifth of the year.
After Rangers winger Ryan Clowe was whistled for boarding at the 9:42 mark, Claude Giroux won an offensive zone faceoff back to the high slot, where Timonen stepped into a one-timer that beat Lundqvist low to the far side to restore Philadelphia's two-goal lead at the halfway point of the contest.
The Rangers again pulled within a goal at the 7:28 mark of the third when Stepan recovered a bouncing puck in the slot and pounded it past Mason.
However, Mason, who appeared to sustain a lower-body injury during the Rangers' third-period flurry, was able to fight through the pain and keep the visitors off the board before Voracek added an empty-netter with 14 seconds left.
“Oh yeah, you know, he was exactly the same as he was in the first year when he won the Rookie of the Year," Voracek said of his former, and now current teammate. "And, you know, he was all over the place. He made a huge stop for us and he was a big key for us, too and winning two more points today.”
Philadelphia struck first near the midpoint of the opening frame, as Brandon Manning fired a shot from the high slot that was knocked down, but Schenn recovered the loose puck on the left wing and buried a wrister past Lundqvist to make it 1-0 at the 9:28 mark.
The Flyers doubled their edge late in the frame when Gustafsson rifled a one-timer from the top of the right circle that sailed past Lundqvist on the short side for a 2-0 lead at 17:21.
"Yeah every game is a playoff game we know that. It's so tight battling for that playoff spot," noted Rangers captain Ryan Callahan. "Every point is really important right now. We have to put this behind us and we got another huge game Thursday. We can't dwell on it. We have to move forward."
Notes: New York had won three straight against Philadelphia...Manning's assist on Schenn's goal was his first NHL point...He was recalled, along with defenseman Matt Konan (who did not play) from Adirondack of the AHL after the absences of Kent Huskins due to a concussion suffered in Monday's win at Montreal, plus the revelation that Bruno Gervais will be lost for the rest of the season following surgery to correct a stomach muscle problem...Philadelphia improved to 13-6-2 at home, while the Rangers dropped to 8-11-2 on the road...Philadelphia went 1- for-2 on the power play ... New York failed on all five of its chances with the man advantage...Voracek's goal was his 19th of the season to set a new career high...Claude Giroux was 18-for-27 on faceoffs (67 percent) , leading the Flyers to a 57-percent night as a team (40 for 70).
Huskins concussed, Gervais has stomach issue; two recalled from Phantoms
There are only seven games left in the regular season, but the hits keep on coming to the Flyers defense.
Kent Huskins is out indefinitely with a concussion suffered at the elbow of Montreal's Ryan White in the first period of last night's 7-3 win at Montreal, then club GM Paul Holmgren revealed this afternoon that Bruno Gervais is lost for the season to surgery which aims to correct a stomach muscle pull.
Gervais had been a scratch for the victory against the Northeast Division leaders, and will undergo the procedure this coming Thursday.
That means two more Phantoms will get their call to the Show as the Orange and Black take on the Rangers at home in the back end of consecutive games with travel in between.
Brandon Manning and Matt Konan are on their way down from Glens Falls to provide backup for a blueline corps which is comprised of spare parts with the exception of Kimmo Timonen.
Manning and Konan won't be alone, since Phantoms teammates Erik Gustafsson and Oliver Lauridsen have already logged plenty of minutes with Philly this year.
Konan has been assigned #34, while Manning will wear #32. If Konan steps onto the ice, it will be his NHL debut, while Manning appeared in four NHL contests last season, but did not record a point.
Kent Huskins is out indefinitely with a concussion suffered at the elbow of Montreal's Ryan White in the first period of last night's 7-3 win at Montreal, then club GM Paul Holmgren revealed this afternoon that Bruno Gervais is lost for the season to surgery which aims to correct a stomach muscle pull.
Gervais had been a scratch for the victory against the Northeast Division leaders, and will undergo the procedure this coming Thursday.
That means two more Phantoms will get their call to the Show as the Orange and Black take on the Rangers at home in the back end of consecutive games with travel in between.
Brandon Manning and Matt Konan are on their way down from Glens Falls to provide backup for a blueline corps which is comprised of spare parts with the exception of Kimmo Timonen.
Manning and Konan won't be alone, since Phantoms teammates Erik Gustafsson and Oliver Lauridsen have already logged plenty of minutes with Philly this year.
Konan has been assigned #34, while Manning will wear #32. If Konan steps onto the ice, it will be his NHL debut, while Manning appeared in four NHL contests last season, but did not record a point.
The Dale Hunter Game, or the end of the Mike Keenan Era in only 66 minutes
Phanatic Hockey Editor
"In...Howe...SCOOOORE!!! Bullet Shot!"
That was Hall of Fame broadcaster Gene Hart calling the action on Channel 57, a Saturday night, April 16, 1988. Game 7, Patrick Division Semifinals, at Capital Centre in Landover, MD.
One second shy of the three-minute mark of the second period, and Mark Howe's trademark wrister, which blew over the shoulder of Washington goalie Pete Peeters, gave the Philadelphia Flyers a seemingly-insurmountable 3-0 lead over the Capitals.
''I know I was shaking my head when it was 3-0,'' said then-Capitals coach Bryan Murray. ''They had everything going for them. We had nothing. I knew somebody had to do something exceptional.''
There appeared to be no more thought of this proud franchise wasting a three-games-to-one series lead. No talk about the psychological scars of losing a Game 7 in Edmonton 10 months ago having an effect. Another chapter added to the grit, guts and glory of Philadelphia hockey in the 1980s.
What followed was one of the most infamous collapses in franchise history, or the most dramatic come-from-behind victories in franchise history, depending on your perspective.
If you're a Capitals fan, to this day, 25 years later, you celebrate the Dale Hunter trade with Quebec, reminisce about how Washington scored five of the last six goals in the game to win -- with Hunter getting the final two including the iconic playoff-series clincher.
"He is a player who will absolutely do anything to win,'' said Washington defenseman and captain Rod Langway, a veteran of five seasons of Capital collapses to that point. ''He sacrifices his body, his person. Look at him, he's got stitches and cuts everywhere. But he knows how to give it, too.''
If you're a Flyers fan, you mutter under your breath with multiple colorful metaphors describing Hunter. You lament the fact that Ron Hextall couldn't pull his teammates back from the brink again, and that Mike Keenan, after four years of whipping his kids into contenders, had finally lost the room for good.
Hextall did everything but snap his spinal column in two during the five minutes and 56 seconds of overtime which preceded Hunter's game winner. He stopped seven shots, most of them dead-on quality chances, helped kill off a penalty to Howe -- the club's most valuable player in any situation, and did his best to calm his teammates despite waves of Capitals rushes on every shift.
But there it is, in black and white. Hunter scored the most famous overtime goal in Capitals history, on a breakaway no less, giving the 14-year-old team its first-ever taste of true playoff success, and doing it against a rival which blocked their ascension to the top of the division and to the NHL's elite.
It washed away the bitter taste of losing the four-OT Easter Epic at home to the New York Islanders one year prior, when the Caps held a 3-1 series lead and blew it thanks to a Pat LaFontaine seeing-eye shot in Game 7.
It was the first time in 21 years that the Flyers blew a 3-1 series lead, and one of only two instances to this day it's happened.
It also was the second time in Hunter's career he won a playoff game in OT against Philly, with the first coming in a 1981 quarterfinal with Quebec which forced a deciding Game 5.
Below is the final portion of the extra session, plus the immediate celebration, with soon-to-be Flyers play-by-play voice Mike Emrick pulling duty for ESPN:
The Flyers' train started coming off the tracks almost as soon as the sirens blared inside the Cap Centre.
Three weeks after the loss, Keenan was shown the door by GM Bob Clarke. Aiding in the decision were the voices of several key veteran personnel who never felt Keenan eased up on the team as a whole over his four-year tenure, plus his obstinate decision to stick a flu-ridden Hextall into the nets to start Game 6 (a 7-2 home loss) after front office personnel urged him to give the start to the healthier Mark Laforest -- who had spelled a weakened Hextall in Games 4 and 5.
Three weeks after that, Paul Holmgren, an assistant for the previous three years under Keenan, was promoted to the top job.
Despite key injuries throughout the season, plus the loss of their leading goal producer for 66 games, the Flyers under Keenan went from one period removed from a potential Stanley Cup title to out in the first round via spectacular failure.
"A lot of people tried to be helpful by asking me to let up, but I was insecure," Keenan said in Full Spectrum. "A few kind words from time to time would have been just what the doctor ordered. I didn't have to show the intensity I did. I could have delivered the same message without saying a word and probably been more effective. But I started out knowing that I wasn't a former player...I wanted my career to last a long time so I pushed. I always felt I had to prove myself."
Doug Crossman, who had an open dislike for Keenan and whose play reflected that opinion late in the 87-88 season, was beaten by Hunter up the middle on his milestone tally. He drew more fan and organizational heat for not doing more to stop the chance, and was shipped out to LA before the next season commenced.
From a Flyers perspective, the pain was only temporary. Hunter couldn't save the Caps as the upstart New Jersey Devils took Washington to seven games, at home in the second round, and won a one-goal contest to reach the Wales Conference Finals.
Washington finished atop the Patrick for the first time in 1988-89, and Philadelphia only managed to end up fourth. The memory that lingered from the previous Spring was washed away when the underdog Flyers dispatched the Caps in a six-game first-round shocker in Holmgren's playoff debut behind the bench.
* * *
You'd think that a terminal game in a best-of-seven playoff series between two of the best teams in the NHL over the past half decade would be a roller-coaster ride from the start, but it wasn't.
The Capitals blew four straight power-play chances in the first period, and totaled only four shots. The Flyers mustered just six in a tentatively-played opening 20 minutes. It would have been a total snoozer, if not for the fact that Grant Ledyard speared Rick Tocchet in the groin during a Flyers advantage, and an attempted cross-crease centering pass from Tim Kerr to Brian Propp fell through the crook of Peeters' arm and into the net for the game's first score.
Propp then converted a Kjell Samuelsson rebound at 1:35 of the second period, and after Howe's score, confidence was high for the visitors.
But then, the Capitals began to do what they had all series long, and started to cruise the Flyers' crease to disrupt Hextall's rhythm. Kevin Hatcher was the primary suspect in most of the strafings, but his presence wasn't necessary when Garry Galley's right-point drive slid home at the 6:42 mark to put the hosts on the board. Nonetheless, Hextall raged to anyone who would listen that he was interfered with on the shot.
The tension and excitement from 18,130 in attendance was finally ratcheted higher when the Caps won a left-circle draw and kept pushing the puck towards Hextall, until Kelly Miller's swipe found some space under his pads and in only 80 seconds later.
Hatcher's blast tied the game with 2:06 left before the second intermission, and if there was any doubt the tide turned in Washington's favor for good, Hunter emphasized it just six seconds into a Samuelsson penalty when he cut down a Garry Galley point shot in the left circle and beat an over-committed Hextall to the far side at 5:19 of the third for a 4-3 Capitals lead.
The delirium lasted all of 1:02, however, when Peter Zezel won a left-circle draw back to Brad Marsh, and his low shot zipped by traffic and Peeters for his final playoff goal in his Flyers career to tie the game once more.
In overtime, Howe was forced to drag down Mike Gartner to prevent a breakaway. Samuelsson smothered a Dave Christian chance with his goaltender out of the crease, then Gartner hit the junction of the crossbar and right post with Hextall on his backside and Hatcher put the rebound over the net. Hexy later came up with a sprawling save off a 2-on-1 by Peter Sundstrom after Gartner curiously elected to pass, but was somehow caught unawares on Hunter's shot choice.
"Hextall is standing there and I'm waiting. He's got to do something before I can do something. Or at least that's what I'm figuring," said Hunter. "But he didn't do anything. I made a little deke because I just didn't see any room to shoot. Finally, he opened his legs and it was just enough room for me to put it in."
BTW, the player who breaks his stick in two on the top of the net in the video is Greg Smyth, most famous here during his one season in Orange and Black for his out-of-control play and mohawk haircut.
"He gave us the opportunity to win it," said Flyers captain Dave Poulin to the Washington Post. "In overtime, the Capitals should have scored three, maybe four times before they did. He gave us a chance. I don't think the finger will ever be pointed at Ron."
In the closing minutes of the postgame segment, Hart delivered some poignant words regarding the Flyers' playoff fate:"It has been an unusual decade of the 1980s, in which the even-numbered years have been particularly cruel to Philadelphia....out in the first round in '88, eliminated in the first round in 1986, eliminated in the first round in 1984, and in the (first) round in '82. Otherwise, it's been feast or famine, making the Finals in 1980, '85 and '87."
In a quarter century, the Flyers have lost only two Game 7s, and just one of those on the road: in 2004 at Tampa Bay. The other one, at home to the Devils in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals of 2000, also kicked off a period of sweeping change for the on-ice product after a 3-1 series edge evaporated.
Neither carried the sneering, snickering, snarling feel of defeat like the one Dale Hunter provided.
Kelly addresses probable Oregon sanctions
PHILADELPHIA - Chip Kelly fled the University of Oregon for the NFL and the Philadelphia Eagles months ahead of likely sanctions.
The Oregonian is now reporting that the university has agreed its football coaches committed "at least one major violation" related to the NCAA's ongoing investigation of the school. Oregon and the NCAA disagree, however, on whether the school committed another major violation.
The university released 515 pages of documents to the newspaper on Monday night and is scheduled to appear in front of the NCAA's committee on infractions sometime this year. A final ruling is pending.
Oregon reportedly wants to self-impose a two-year probation for Kelly's former program and a reduction of one scholarship for each of the next three seasons.
Kelly is safe , however, 2,878 miles away in Philadelphia ducking any responsibility for the mess he left behind.
"I am aware of the recent reports and of the ongoing investigation being conducted by the NCAA and the University of Oregon," the coach said in a statement released by the team. "While at Oregon, I know we were fully cooperative with all aspects of the investigation and I will continue to contribute in any way that I can.
"But until the NCAA rules on the matter, I will have no further comment.”
The Oregonian is now reporting that the university has agreed its football coaches committed "at least one major violation" related to the NCAA's ongoing investigation of the school. Oregon and the NCAA disagree, however, on whether the school committed another major violation.
The university released 515 pages of documents to the newspaper on Monday night and is scheduled to appear in front of the NCAA's committee on infractions sometime this year. A final ruling is pending.
Oregon reportedly wants to self-impose a two-year probation for Kelly's former program and a reduction of one scholarship for each of the next three seasons.
Kelly is safe , however, 2,878 miles away in Philadelphia ducking any responsibility for the mess he left behind.
"I am aware of the recent reports and of the ongoing investigation being conducted by the NCAA and the University of Oregon," the coach said in a statement released by the team. "While at Oregon, I know we were fully cooperative with all aspects of the investigation and I will continue to contribute in any way that I can.
"But until the NCAA rules on the matter, I will have no further comment.”
Philadelphia Eagles 2013 Draft Preview
PHILADELPHIA - With Andy Reid in Kansas City and Chip Kelly taking over
one of the most talent-deficient rosters in the NFL, Philadelphia is in the
rather easy position of going best player available throughout the entire
draft. Need is not an issue for the Eagles since it exists all over the field
on both sides of the ball.
Philadelphia has been a bargain-conscious, high-volume buyer on the free agent
market, especially on defense since they are moving to a 3- 4. They are
rebooting the entire secondary and need competent edge players.
Offensively Kelly, the former head coach at the University of Oregon, will
bring his fastbreak approach across the country, something which requires
speed and exceptional conditioning both at the skill positions and on the
offensive line. The Eagles will also need a developmental Kelly-type QB at
some point and must fortify an offensive line ravaged by injuries in 2012.
Basically general manager Howie Roseman could be blindfolded, throw at the
dart board and still get help for his team.
Forget about West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith for the Eagles, however.
That's likely nothing more than a smokescreen but edge rusher Dion Jordan, an
old Kelly acolyte from Nike University, would be a nice fit with the fourth
overall pick as would Central Michigan left tackle Eric Fisher. Oklahoma left
tackle Lane Johnson could be a surprise since he has the type of athleticism
Kelly covets.
The team is also reportedly high on Syracuse quarterback Ryan Nassib as well
as Florida State signal-caller E.J. Manuel. One or both could be there at the
Birds' 35th selection in the second round.
Philadelphia came away from the Senior Bowl impressed with Rice tight end
Vance McDonald, and Illinois hybrid Michael Buchanan has gone public with the
Eagles interest in him as a 3-4 option on the edge. Both of those players
could be in play as Saturday picks.
2012 Record: 4-12
Top Needs: DB, QB, OL, TE
First Three Picks: No. 4, No. 35, No. 67
Number of Selections: 9 (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 7, 7, 7)
RECENT FIRST ROUND HISTORY: 2012 - Fletcher Cox (DT, Mississippi State); 2011
- Danny Watkins (G, Baylor); 2010 - Brandon Graham (DE, Michigan); 2009 -
Jeremy Maclin (WR, Missouri); 2008 - none; 2007 - none; 2006 - Brodrick
Bunkley (DT, Florida State); 2005 - Mike Patterson (DT, USC); 2004 - Shawn
Andrews (OL, Arkansas); 2003 - Jerome McDougle (DE, Miami-Florida); 2002 -
Lito Sheppard (CB, Florida).
one of the most talent-deficient rosters in the NFL, Philadelphia is in the
rather easy position of going best player available throughout the entire
draft. Need is not an issue for the Eagles since it exists all over the field
on both sides of the ball.
Philadelphia has been a bargain-conscious, high-volume buyer on the free agent
market, especially on defense since they are moving to a 3- 4. They are
rebooting the entire secondary and need competent edge players.
Offensively Kelly, the former head coach at the University of Oregon, will
bring his fastbreak approach across the country, something which requires
speed and exceptional conditioning both at the skill positions and on the
offensive line. The Eagles will also need a developmental Kelly-type QB at
some point and must fortify an offensive line ravaged by injuries in 2012.
Basically general manager Howie Roseman could be blindfolded, throw at the
dart board and still get help for his team.
Forget about West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith for the Eagles, however.
That's likely nothing more than a smokescreen but edge rusher Dion Jordan, an
old Kelly acolyte from Nike University, would be a nice fit with the fourth
overall pick as would Central Michigan left tackle Eric Fisher. Oklahoma left
tackle Lane Johnson could be a surprise since he has the type of athleticism
Kelly covets.
The team is also reportedly high on Syracuse quarterback Ryan Nassib as well
as Florida State signal-caller E.J. Manuel. One or both could be there at the
Birds' 35th selection in the second round.
Philadelphia came away from the Senior Bowl impressed with Rice tight end
Vance McDonald, and Illinois hybrid Michael Buchanan has gone public with the
Eagles interest in him as a 3-4 option on the edge. Both of those players
could be in play as Saturday picks.
2012 Record: 4-12
Top Needs: DB, QB, OL, TE
First Three Picks: No. 4, No. 35, No. 67
Number of Selections: 9 (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 7, 7, 7)
RECENT FIRST ROUND HISTORY: 2012 - Fletcher Cox (DT, Mississippi State); 2011
- Danny Watkins (G, Baylor); 2010 - Brandon Graham (DE, Michigan); 2009 -
Jeremy Maclin (WR, Missouri); 2008 - none; 2007 - none; 2006 - Brodrick
Bunkley (DT, Florida State); 2005 - Mike Patterson (DT, USC); 2004 - Shawn
Andrews (OL, Arkansas); 2003 - Jerome McDougle (DE, Miami-Florida); 2002 -
Lito Sheppard (CB, Florida).
Soul announce Spring Jam
PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Soul have announced the inaugural “Spring Band Jam” set for Saturday, April 27 at the Wells Fargo Center immediately following the Soul game. The Soul game kicks off at 7pm and Spring Jam is expected to begin at approximately 10pm.
Soul Spring Band Jam will showcase two of the nation’s best marching bands from Pennsylvania’s oldest HBCU’s performing and competing against each other. The bands include Cheyney University “Soulful Sound” Marching Band under the Direction of Pro. Alan Gardner and Lincoln University “Orange Crush” Roaring Lions Marching Band under the Direction of Pro. H. Wade Johnson. This year’s coordinator of the Spring Band Jam is Chevis Anderson, Philadelphia Soul’s Manager of Bands.
“Spring Jam is going to be an incredible display of musical talent and a can’t-miss event for music enthusiasts,” said Soul Vice President and COO John Adams. “If you have seen these bands in action, you know the show they put on. If you have not, it is something you will not want to miss.”
Tickets for this event start at just $18 and include access to both the Soul Spring Jam as well as the Soul game vs. the Jacksonville Sharks. Kickoff for the Soul game is at 7:00pm. For more information or to purchase tickets or how your band can be included in this event go to PhiladelphiaSoul.com/SpringJam.
Soul Spring Band Jam will showcase two of the nation’s best marching bands from Pennsylvania’s oldest HBCU’s performing and competing against each other. The bands include Cheyney University “Soulful Sound” Marching Band under the Direction of Pro. Alan Gardner and Lincoln University “Orange Crush” Roaring Lions Marching Band under the Direction of Pro. H. Wade Johnson. This year’s coordinator of the Spring Band Jam is Chevis Anderson, Philadelphia Soul’s Manager of Bands.
“Spring Jam is going to be an incredible display of musical talent and a can’t-miss event for music enthusiasts,” said Soul Vice President and COO John Adams. “If you have seen these bands in action, you know the show they put on. If you have not, it is something you will not want to miss.”
Tickets for this event start at just $18 and include access to both the Soul Spring Jam as well as the Soul game vs. the Jacksonville Sharks. Kickoff for the Soul game is at 7:00pm. For more information or to purchase tickets or how your band can be included in this event go to PhiladelphiaSoul.com/SpringJam.
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