The Brahmas celebrate Matt Pierce's late goal, securing the 5-3 final score

'Bugs squashed at NYTEX

Brahmas end eight-game win streak for Bossier-Shreveport

The Texas Brahmas showed their own "Heart and Hustle" last night, defeating the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs in a 5-3 slug fest at the NYTEX Sports Centre. The victory ends an impressive eight-game win streak by the road-weary 'Bugs (this was their first loss since November 6th) and gives the Brahmas, at least for now, a four point lead over the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees for third place in the Berry Conference.

Prior to the game, the Brahmas organization and the City of North Richland Hills recognized former team captain Craig Minard in a special on-ice presentation. Minard, a member of both the Brahmas and Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs during his career, retired early in the season. The City, represented by Councilman Tim Welch, declared November 27, 2010 - Craig Minard Day. The Brahmas, represented by GM Mike Barack and Head Coach Dan Wildfong, presented Minard with gifts, including a mounted and framed #27 sweater. Following speeches, Minard was shown due respect by both teams who left their respective benches to line up and shake hands with the former player.

The first period of play was a bit of a yawner, especially compared to Friday night's action but the boys showed good form.

The ‘Bugs got on the board first when Steven Crampton and Justin Aikins combined to feed Brett Smith, who skated into the slot and beat Wayne Savage through the five-hole at the 8:36 mark. That proved to be the game’s only goal through the first 20 minutes.

Both teams sent six shots on net in a first period which saw very few scoring chances either way. A Holding penalty on Nathan Saunders was the only infraction and the resulting power play was shut down by the Brahmas penalty killers, now ranked second in the league.

The middle frame warmed up the fans on a particularly chilly night in the Shoebox. Mudbugs defenseman Jamie Milam was called for Hooking at the 2:38 mark and the the Brahmas special teams quickly took advantage of the opportunity. Chad Woollard, set up by Dan Riedel and Greg Hogeboom, lit the lamp after beating Brian Foster with a rocket at the 2:38 mark, making it a 1-1 contest.

A little over three minutes later, Todd Griffith scored his second goal as a Brahma and his second in as many nights with a little help from Matt Pierce and Tyler Allen to give the Brahmas a 2-1 lead at the 5:43 mark.

Fisticuffs ensued 34 seconds later between defensemen Nathan Saunders and Mitch Love. It was a pretty even match and both stayed on their feet. After being separated by linesmen, the two skated to the penalty boxes to serve their Fighting Majors. They wouldn't be alone for long.

Mick Lawrence and Todd Griffith got into it briefly near the Brahmas' net before the linesmen broke it up.

Shortly after that, Todd Griffith and Shane Hart dropped gloves and another even fight ended with Hart managing to pull Griffith down to the ice where the two were separated. Griffith and Saunders exchanged high-fives as the two met in the sin bin.

17 seconds before Saunders and Love were released, Roger Maxwell collided with David Pszenyczny (pronounced Zen-a-chez-nee) collided near the half-boards and Pszenyczny made the mistake of disrespectfully jacking his jaws at a man much larger and tougher than himself. Maxwell went after the defenseman who was trying to retreat, having realized the error of his ways when Steven Crampton hit Maxwell with a cross-check from behind, knocking the unsuspecting forward to his knees. Crampton followed with a slash to the big man's buttocks while he was trying to get up - so disrespectful. Maxwell rang Crampton's helmet a few times before Crampton sent a left to Maxwell's chin and the two tumbled to the ice before being separated by officials. Maxwell, a man you just have to like (if you're a Brahmas fan), gave his customary salute and million-dollar smile to the opposing bench as he skated his way to the crowded house of brawlers.

Crampton was called for Slashing to serve with his Fighting Major but avoided an unsportsmanlike conduct call for his initial check.

With the fight card exhausted, the game resumed and power plays for both sides were killed efficiently.

The Mudbugs' Shane Hart scored the equalizer with 1:54 remaining in the period thanks to a set up by Justin Aikins and Jamie Milam.

The wild and woolly frame ended with the score tied and the Brahmas with the ever-so-narrow 10-9 shot count (16-15) through 40 minutes).

The Mudbugs went back on top early in the third frame as chickenshit Steven Crampton sent a screamer into the top corner of the net from the right circle to make it 3-2 for the visitors. Brett Smith and Jamie Milam were in on the assist.

The lead lasted just 29 seconds however, as Dan Reidel’s shot was then deflected in by Roger Maxwell to knot the game at three at the 4:28 mark. Todd Griffith picked up his second point of the night on the assist.

With 4:55 left to play, Tyler Allen scored on a delayed penalty with the assistance of Dan Riedel and Steven Later.

Matt Pierce followed with a score on a screened Foster just 24 seconds later to nail the coffin shut, securing the final score at 5-3 and providing every fan in attendance with a burger, courtesy of the folks at Whataburger.

The Mudbugs made a concerted effort in the final frame, out shooting the Brahmas 16-9, but a stellar effort by Wayne Savage and the defense stymied them at all but one turn. They lost, despite a 36-24 shot advantage through the game.

With the win, the Brahmas record goes to 9-5-2 (20 points) and they are now four points ahead of both Rio Grande Valley and the surging Mississippi RiverKings in the Berry Conference. Texas is now 5-2-1 on home ice.

Wayne Savage stopped 29 of 32 shots faced to earn the win. His record goes to 3-3-1 with a 2.75 GAA (13th in the league) and a .913 save percentage (14th in the league).

Brian Foster turned away 19 of 24 shots faced and takes the loss. His four-game win streak is over and his record goes to 7-2-0.

The Brahmas went 1 for 4 on the power play. The 'Bugs went 0 for 2. The Brahmas were assessed 25 minutes on 8 infractions. The 'Bugs received 29 minutes on 10 infractions.

The 3rd Star of the game went to Roger Maxwell, who had a goal and a fight on the night. The 2nd Star was awarded to Dan Riedel, who had three helpers and the 1st Star went to Tyler Allen, who had the game-winning goal as well as an assist on the night.

Referee: Geoff Miller
Linesmen: Chris Petrin, Brian Bull

You can view the box score here and the Game Live broadcast here

You can view the Brahmas' press release here

You can view my photos from the game here and here (not edited yet)

The Brahmas will conclude their home stand next weekend when they host the Missouri Mavericks Friday night on ‘Puck Night’; the first 1000 fans will receive a puck courtesy of Cabela's.

On Saturday night the Brahmas host the Colorado Eagles on ‘Teddy Bear Toss’ night. Fans are encouraged to bring stuffed animals to the game to toss onto the ice following the first Texas goal. The stuffed animals will be donated to the Community Enrichment Center of North Richland Hills.

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

Special thanks to Applestreudel and Fast Cars over at the 'Bugs Forum for pointing out some big-time factual errors that have been corrected - to my satisfaction at least!

When Bucks cry....

Down 3-1, Brahmas rally to defeat Laredo 4-3 in OT

"We're gonna win this one tonight boys!"
- Roger Maxwell, 42 seconds before the end of the third period

Roger believed it. I believed it. More importantly, the players believed it and after a difficult battle, they found the heart and the hustle to do what it took to win tonight's game at the NYTEX Sports Centre 4-3 in overtime.

It was definitely one of, if not the most exciting win of the Texas Brahmas' young season. When former Buck Todd Griffith scored with just 9.2 seconds left in overtime, the Brahmas' bench cleared as players made their way to the left circle to congratulate Griffith as well as goalie Wayne Savage who stopped 18 of 18 shots faced to earn the win in relief of Kevin Beech.

More to come...

With the win, the Brahmas record goes to 8-5-2 (18 points) and they are now two points ahead of the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees (who suffered a 5-4 road loss tonight) in the Berry Conference with a .600 win percentage. They are now 4-2-1 on home ice.

Kevin Beech stopped 6 of 9 shots faced before being pulled after 25:46 in net. Wayne Savage stopped 18 of 18 shots faced and earned the win in relief. His record goes to 2-3-1 with a 2.71 GAA (14th in the league) and a .927 save percentage (13th in the league).

Pier Pelletier turned away 36 of 40 shots faced and takes the loss. His record goes to 2-4-2.

The Brahmas went 3 for 6 on the power play. The Bucks went 0 for 4. The Brahmas were assessed 8 minutes on 4 infractions. The Bucks received 14 minutes on 7 infractions.

The 3rd Star of the game went to Laredo goalie Pier Pelletier, who stopped 36 of 40 shots faced, earning a loss. Yeah, that deserves the 3rd Star, especially after he earned an unsportsmanlike conduct call at the end of the game. Your Texas Brahmas Insider substitute 3rd Star goes to Dan Riedel, who showed tremendous hustle throughout the game and had an assist on the night. The 2nd Star was awarded to Jason Krischuk, whose unassisted power play goal tied the game at three, forcing the overtime period and the 1st Star went to Todd Griffith, who had the game-winning goal as well as an assist on the night.

Referee: Jon McIssac
Linesmen: Kai Magnussen, Brian Bull

You can view the box score here and the Game Live broadcast here

You can view the Brahmas' press release here

Tomorrow night, the Brahmas will host the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs who extended their win streak to eight games with a 6-2 victory at Tulsa tonight. The first puck drops at 7:30 pm. Prior to the game, the Brahmas and City of North Richland Hills will honor former captain Craig Minard with an on-ice presentation. “Military Appreciation Nights” will conclude with a post game jersey auction immediately following the game.

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

Frustration...

Brahmas fall to Mudbugs 3-1

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, Texas (November 24)- Wednesday kicked off the Brahmas “Military Appreciation Nights”, and decorated in their specialty camouflage jerseys, it seemed as if the offense disappeared as they took a 3-1 loss headed into Thanksgiving.

It only took 90 seconds for the Mudbugs to get their offense going when Travis Clayton put the night’s first shot of the game on goal into the back of the net for the 1-0 lead.

In spirit of the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, Brahmas fans expressed their ‘thanks’ to their captain Jason Deitsch when he went one-on-one with goaltender Brian Foster and almost effortlessly shelved the puck for the tied game. Jason Krischuk and Greg Hogeboom were credited with the assists.

A Bossier goal from Jeff Martens in the second period was the lone tally in the frame despite three power
play opportunities for Texas. The second ranked Mudbug power play unit went to work in the third a shot from the point from Clay Plume beat Kevin Beech for the two goal lead.

In the winding minutes of regulation Texas went with the extra attacker but were unable to come back, dropping the contest 3-1.

The Brahmas will continue with their “Military Appreciation Nights” Friday night when they host the Laredo Bucks for a 7:30 pm start.

The military night promotion will conclude Saturday with a post game jersey auction, but prior to the game against the Mudbugs, the Brahmas and City of North Richland Hills will honor former captain Craig Minard with an on-ice presentation.

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

Take that Jacks!

Brahmas' special teams play highlights wild one at the ECC

We give a lot of press to the (historical) rivalry between the Texas Brahmas and the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs as well as the new rivalry with the Allen Americans, but you have to consider the Odessa Jackalopes as the greatest opponent of the Wildfong-era Brahmas. Tonight's contest was evidence of just that.

For the Brahmas, who have struggled with inconsistency thus far this season, it was a banner performance which included four power play tallies, a five-goal third period (including four consecutive goals), a third period hat trick for Chad Woollard, a Gordie Howe hat trick for Nathan Saunders and four assists by defenseman Jason Krischuk. Whew!

Fortunately for the boys in purple and black, who were fantastic tonight (yeah, that's an understatement), a typically sparse weeknight crowd at the Ector County Coliseum witnessed the home team ride the wave of a three-game win streak right into a wall of oblivion as they self-destructed in the third period, resulting in an 8-6 Brahmas win. Yeah, that's right - 8-6! We'd be eating Whataburger's by now if this was a home game.

The last time the Brahmas tallied eight goals in a regular season match was on December 20, 2008 (also on the road), when they spanked the Arizona Sundogs at Tim's Toyota Center. You'll remember that because of the brawl in the final minute of the game, featuring a goalie fight between David Cacciola and Marco Emond.

Of course, the most recent eight-point Brahmas performance was on a memorable Saturday night (April 25, 2009) at NYTEX when the Brahmas battered the Jackalopes 8-1 in Game 7 of the Southern Conference Final, which allowed the home team to advance and defeat the Colorado Eagles to win the 2009 Ray Miron President's Cup championship.

Tonight's game marked Nathan Saunders' return to the ice for the Brahmas after a year away from the club. Saunders didn't disappoint, recording a Gordie Howe hat trick with a goal, an assist and a fight. Todd Griffith returned to the Brahmas' lineup following a four-game suspension and Roger Maxwell was also back, although he apparently didn't see any ice time.

For Odessa, tonight's game marked the return of defenseman Dave Van Drunen, who missed the first 15 games of the season after he was leveled with a cowardly sucker punch by Colorado's Brad McMillan during a fight-filled pre-season match back on October 9th.

Alex Dunn, who has spent most of his pro career with the Jacks, opened up the scoring early tonight with a little help from Jeff Pierce and Mike Lesperance. Dunn's strike on Kevin Beech at the 2:36 mark was his first goal of the season.

Seems like old times - It didn't take long for Garrett Gruenke and Nathan Saunders to get re-acquainted after a season apart. The opposing blue liners dropped the gloves just 7:25 into the period and received matching Fighting Majors for their efforts.

Just five seconds after play resumed, Jeff Pierce was cited for Hooking, but the Brahmas power play unit was unable to capitalize on the two-minute advantage. Three-and-a-half minutes later, after Dave Van Drunen was sent to the sin bin on the same call, Greg Hogeboom took just six seconds to score the equalizer, beating Joel Martin to make it 1-1 at the 11:13 mark. Ross Rouleau and Jason Krischuk were credited with the assist.

The Brahmas had the 14-11 shot advantage in what would be considered a tame first 20 minutes of play compared with what was to come in the middle frame.

After the break, the Jackalopes were the beneficiaries of an early five-on-three advantage after Calin Wild and Jason Krischuk were called for Holding (3:12) and Interference (3:15), respectively. Fortunately, the Brahmas penalty killers (currently third in the league at 85.71%) were able to shut down the opportunity. The Brahmas got their chance after Todd Robinson was called for hooking, but they were also shut down.

Kenny Bernard scored his second goal of the season 11 seconds shy of the mid-point with the feed coming from Jeff Pierce.

point in a Brahmas sweater just two seconds later with the assists coming from Jason and Chad Patrick Mbaraga was sent to the box for Interference 34 seconds later with no effect and then Todd Griffith was sent in for the same call at the 13:42 mark. Jason Deitsch scored his 100thKrischukWoollard.

Odessa's special teams capitalized on a Hooking call on Tyler Allen, making it a 3-2 contest after Sebastien Thinel and Philippe Plante set up Todd Robinson, who beat Beecher at the 15:01 mark. They had another chance shortly thereafter when Ross Rouleau was called for Hooking 46 seconds later but a subsequent tripping call on Kenny Bernard evened the field and as a result, Mick Lawrence tallied his sixth of the season to tie the game up again, 3-3 at the 17:18 mark. Jason Krischuk was credited with his third assist of the night and Todd Griffith also tallied a helper.

One second before Bernard was released from the box, Mike Lesperance registered a short-handed tally off a feed from Sebastien Thinel to close out the scoring in the second period.

Odessa had a 14-12 shot advantage in the middle frame as well as the 4-3 lead, so yeah, things seemed to be looking good for the homers, but as we've seen before (fortunately), things were about to go way South.

Chad Woollard set the stage for the final frame with his first of three goals coming at the 1:24 mark, tying the game up at 4-4 with assists from Jason Deitsch and Greg Hogeboom.

Undaunted, Mike Ramsay gave the Jacks a 5-4 lead 49 seconds later with assists coming from Sebastien Thinel and Kenny Corupe. 28 seconds later, Dominic Leveille fed Todd Robinson, who scored his second of the night to make it 6-4.

OK, so things still looking bright for the Jacks, right? Well, somewhere within the next three minutes of play, the devil got his due and all good fortune went the Brahmas way, beginning with an Interference call on Dave Van Drunen at the 5:37 mark and then a Cross Checking call on Kenny Bernard at the 9:22 mark. Jason Deitsch collared his second goal and third of four points on the night 25 seconds into the ensuing power play, assisted by Greg Hogeboom and Nathan Saunders. The score - 6-5.

A Hooking call on Garrett Gruenke at the 12:00 minute mark led to the third Brahmas power play of the frame and Chad Woollard's second goal just 40 seconds later. The score - 6-6.

Another Hooking call, on Mike Lesperance at the 14:55 mark, led to a fourth consecutive man-advantage for the boys, which resulted in another power play goal just five seconds later, this time by Nathan Saunders with helpers from Jason Krischuk and Jason Deitsch. The score - 7-6.

Chad Woollard sealed the scoring and his first hat trick with the (Wildfong-era) Brahmas with an unassisted tally at the 18:15 mark. Question of the day: what do you call a hat trick scored in one period of play?

The Brahmas led the shot count in the final period, 19-11. They had a 45-36 shot advantage in the game.

With the win, the Brahmas record goes to 7-4-2 (16 points), leap-frogging them ever-so-slightly past the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees to re-take possession of their place in the Berry Conference with a .615 win percentage. They are now 4-3-1 on the road.

Kevin Beech stopped 30 of 36 shots faced in 59:23 minutes played, which on most nights would be a tragedy. Despite the effect on his stats, Beech gets the win and his record goes to 6-1-1-1 with a 2.80 GAA (15th in the league) and a .915 save percentage (12th in the league).

Joel Martin turned away 37 of 45 shots faced and takes the loss. His record goes to an uncharacteristic 4-7-0.

The Brahmas went 4 for 9 on the power play. The Jackalopes went 1 for 5. The Brahmas were assessed 15 minutes on 6 infractions. The Jackalopes received 23 minutes on 10 infractions.
The 3rd Star of the game went to Odessa's Sebastien Thinel, who tallied three assists. The 2nd Star was awarded to Jason Krischuk, who topped that with four assists and the 1st Star went to Chad Woollard who had a hat trick within a single period of play, as well as an assist for four points on the night.

Referee: T.J. Nua
Linesmen: Bill McGoldrick, Jean Minard

You can view the box score here and the Game Live broadcast here

You can view the Brahmas' press release here and Lee Scheide's article in the Odessa American here

The Brahmas return home tonight to get a short rest before preparing for tomorrow night's home game, kicking off Military Appreciation Nights against the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs, who are on a six-game win streak. The first puck drops at 7:00 pm. Immediately following the game will be a free public skate with the team. Don't miss this one!

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

99 and counting...

Deitsch approaching the scoring century mark

On Tuesday, Brahmas Captain Jason Deitsch will play in his 98th career game with the team. Thus far, the 2009 CHL Playoff Most Valuable Player has scored 99 points (33 G, 66 A) wearing the purple and black.

Deitsch has tallied 10 points (1 G, 9 A, -4) and 27 penalty minutes in 10 games played this season.

Last season, Deitsch tallied 45 points (12 G, 33 A, +3) and 78 penalty minutes in 51 games played. Showing a prowess for special teams, Deitsch was first on the team in power play goals (6) and power play assists (14) and tied for first for short-handed assists (3). He added five points (3 G, 2 A, +3) in eight post-season contests.

During the Brahmas championship year, Deitsch split time playing with the Brahmas and the Houston Aeros of the American Hockey League. During the regular season, Deitsch posted 44 points (20 G, 24 A, +18) in 36 games for Texas and 15 points (4 G, 11 A) in 28 games with the Aeros.

During the postseason the Cincinnati, Ohio native went on an offensive tear, scoring a league playoff-leading 26 points (11 G, 15 A, +9) in 16 games. His leadership on and off the ice during the playoffs earned him the MVP award for the playoffs and his third championship in four years.

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

Transactions, transactions…

Brahmas prepare for four tough games over five days

Texas Brahmas forward Todd Griffith, the last of the notorious bench brawlers (which included Ross Rouleau and Jason Deitch) who opened a can of NYTEX brand whoop ass on the Arizona Sundogs on November 6th, was activated from a four-game league suspension today, according to Pointstreak. The team was busy today, preparing for tomorrow’s road game against the Odessa Jackalopes.

In addition, Roger Maxwell has been activated from injured reserve. Maxwell has been out of commission since October 30th but looks great and definitely ready to go. He's had minimal shifts as one of Fonger's specialists since joining the team but is sure to make a big impact as the season wears on.

Hockey (At long last, Nathan Saunders has finally signed a contract and has looked pretty good in practice. Nathan spent the last season in Canada, playing in the Ligue Nord-Americaine deLNAH) with Riviere-du-Loup CIMT. He played 36 games last season, tallying 12 points (7 G, 5 A) and 97 PIM. Saunders was an integral member of the Brahmas' 2009 President's Cup Championship team.

On Saturday, Tom Train and Jesse Dudas were placed on the 10-day Injured Reserve list. Train had previously been out due to injury following the season opener at Allen on October 15th. He was activated on November 12th and played in four games, including Saturday night’s loss to the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees. Dudas had been out on league-approved league following the previous game against the Jackalopes at NYTEX on November 12th. After being activated from that leave on November 17th, he played in this weekend’s road games in Laredo and Rio Grande Valley.

The Brahmas have a tough four games to play in the next five days.

Tomorrow night, they take on the resurgent Odessa Jackalopes at the Ector County Coliseum. Although they have started 5-9-1 this season, the Jacks are back to their old ways and have won their last three games in a row (6-3 against Rio, 6-2 against Wichita and 5-1 at Allen). The teams have played once this season, a 4-1 win for the Brahmas at NYTEX on November 12th. Odessa is 3-3-0 at home this season.

On Wednesday evening, the Brahmas host the 12-4-0 Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs for the second meeting this season. The Bugs are 7-1-0 on the road thus far and are playing some of their best hockey in years. They are currently on a five-game win streak and have won their last three road games. The two teams met once before this season, also at NYTEX. The Bugs won that game 4-2.

On Friday, the hapless Laredo Bucks come to town. Sure, they've lost their last six in a row, but don't count Roscoe's boys out just yet. It's still very early in the season. The two teams have also met just once this season, with the Brahmas winning that match 3-1 on Friday night. Led by Neil Trimm, who has 20 points (6 G, 14 A, +10), including four power play goals, the Bucks are looking to turn the corner and they'll be coming in after what will be a brutal two-game home and away series with the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees.

Finally on Saturday, the Mudbugs return on a night when the Brahmas organization celebrates the career of former team captain Craig Minard.

Brahmas fans - don't let the holiday preparations and shopping keep you away from the NYTEX Sports Centre (which is also a great place to do some holiday shopping for that special Brahmas fan on your list). The boys need you!

As I like to say - It's not just hockey. Be there, be loud, believe!

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

Brahmas stung again

Killer Bees strike four times in a row to secure 4-1 win

It's worse for the Fort Wayne Komets and Tulsa Oilers fans. Nonetheless, a 4-1 road loss to the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees is a bitter pill to swallow for Texas Brahmas fans still riding the high of the boys' victory over the Laredo Bucks on Friday night.

Yes, it will be a long bus ride home from Hidalgo tonight for the purple and black. A rest tomorrow, followed by practice on Monday and then another long bus ride - this time to face the Odessa Jackalopes, who won their third consecutive game tonight with five different players scoring goals on Allen's Chris Whitley.

Was there an up side to tonight's game? No, not really. OK, a power play goal is always good - but not as the only score of the game.

The game started out with a crappy first period of play that saw just 13 combined shots and a single power play for each team.

Rookie forward Tyler Lehrke, who was activated from injured reserve today, put the Bees up 1-0 on a bad luck play for the Brahmas at the 10:08 mark. Matt Smyth took a shot from the circles on an end-to-end rush which was deflected by Brahmas defensemen Sean Hurley right to the stick of Lehrke, who then fired it past an out-of-position Wayne Savage. Brett Wilson was also credited with an assist.

There was no other scoring in the period. The Brahmas had the 8-5 shot advantage but were unable to solve Juliano Pagliero.

Three consecutive penalties (Slashing, Elbowing/Fighting Major/Holding) on Mick Lawrence ultimately led to a power play goal for the Bees at the 15:02 mark of the second period. Zak McClellan and Dan Gendur combined to feed the puck to Darcy Campbell, who beat Savage with a rip from the top of the circles.

Just 1:22 later, Lehrke electrified the crowd at the State Farm Arena with an unassisted score after he took possession of a loose puck in front of the net following a face off. His first shot on goal was turned away, but he picked up his own rebound and skated around Savage to find a clear shot to the back of the net to make it a 3-0 contest.

By the end of the frame, Rio led the shot count 12-8 and 17-16 in the game.

A wild third period saw the Brahmas out shoot the Bees 18-15 but the Bees increased their lead to four early in the frame after Aaron Lewicki and Tomas Klempa came in on a two-on-one. After Klempa's shot was turned away, Lewicki picked up the rebound and drove it into the back of the net at the 2:24 mark. Dan Gendur was also credited with an assist.

The Brahmas finally got on the scoreboard after a Board Checking call on Lewicki and a Roughing call on Rob Cowan gave the Brahmas a 5-on-3 power play. Set up by Jason Deitsch and Chad Woollard, defenseman Jason Krischuk ripped a shot from the face off circle down low, beating Pagliero on the high glove side to make it 4-1 at the 7:52 mark. The shut out was prevented but the game was already beyond lost.

Wayne Savage, who hadn't started a game since November 5th, stopped 28 of 32 shots faced and takes the loss. His record goes to 1-3-1 with a 3.01 GAA (21st in the league) and a .906 save percentage (18th in the league).

Juliano Pagliero stopped 33 of 34 shots faced and earned the win. His record goes to 7-3-2-1.

The Brahmas went 1 for 7 on the power play. The Killer Bees went 1 for 5. The Brahmas were assessed 15 minutes on 6 infractions. The Killer Bees received 19 minutes on 8 infractions.

The 3rd Star of the game went to Dan Gendur, who had two assist on the night. The 2nd Star was awarded to Juliano Pagliero for his performance in net and the 1st Star went to Tyler Lehrke who had two goals on four shots tonight.

Referee: Ryan Hersey
Linesmen: Kai Magnussen, Nathaniel Farkas

You can view the box score here and the Game Live broadcast here

You can view the Brahmas' press release here

'Nuff said.

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

Bucks handed their fifth loss in a row

Three goal first period seals win, Brahmas move into third place

Personally, I think it was the Cowboys sweaters. The Texas Brahmas quickly dispatched the Laredo Bucks tonight with three first period goals in less than 10 minutes and in the process, provided the home team with their fifth consecutive regulation loss - something that has never occurred before in franchise history.

Thanks to a come from behind win by the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs, the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees lost in a 3-2 contest, which means the Brahmas, now at 6-3-2, move ahead of the Bees in the standings, although tied with 14 points apiece (Rio has played two more games than the Brahmas and win percentages are .636 vs. .538). A win in Hidalgo tonight is expected boys!

There's not much to say about the game as everything important happened in the Brahmas' dominating first period performance.

Chad Woollard set the tone with his strike on Torrie Jung just 51 seconds into the game on a setup by Greg Hogeboom and Jason Deitsch.

Mick Lawrence took a feed from Alex Curran to make it a 2-0 contest at the 7:09 mark.

Calin Wild redirected Steven Later's shot past Jung at the 10:33 mark to make it 3-0 and end Jung's night in net, with Pier Pelletier coming in to relieve him. Pelletier stopped all 19 shots faced for the remainder of the game.

The Brahmas had the 27-23 overall shot advantage in the game.

Kevin Beech stopped 22 of 23 shots faced to earn the win. He is now 5-1-1 against the Bucks in his career. His record goes to 5-1-1-1 with a 2.27 GAA and a .929 save percentage.

Torrie Jung stopped 5 of 8 shots faced in the first 10:33 of the game and takes the loss. His record goes to 3-4-0. Pier Pelletier stopped 19 of 19 shots faced in relief.

The Brahmas went 0 for 3 on the power play as did Laredo. The Brahmas were assessed 13 minutes on 5 infractions as were the Bucks.

The 3rd Star of the game went to Kevin Beech for his performance in net. The 2nd Star was awarded to Mick Lawrence who had the game-winning goal tonight and the 1st Star went to Chad Woollard, who also had a goal tonight.

Referee: Boone Bruggman
Linesmen: Brad Duncan, Cory Piche

You can view the box score here and the Game Live broadcast here

You can view the Brahmas' press release here

The Brahmas will play the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees tonight in Hidalgo at 7:30pm.

Photo Credit: City of Laredo

Road Warriors

Brahmas take on Laredo and Rio Grande Valley this weekend

The Texas Brahmas went on the road yesterday, making the long trek to Laredo where they will take on the Bucks for the first time this season tonight at the Laredo Energy Center.

The Bucks are in the midst of their Big Friggin' Weekend celebration with events that began at the LEC this morning at 10am. Tonight is Dallas Cowboys Night and the Bucks will be wearing special Dallas Cowboys inspired sweaters which will be auctioned off after the game. Bucks President/General Manager and Head Coach Terry Ruskowski will be serving as the auctioneer.

The Brahmas (5-3-2) are 4-1-1 in their last six games riding the hot hand of goaltender Kevin Beech who is 3-0-1 in his last four decisions, allowing just seven goals over that stretch (1.71 GAA). Beech is currently ranked 8th in the league with a 2.52 GAA and 6th with a .926 save percentage.

Laredo (4-6-1) has lost their last four games in a row and have been outscored 20-8 during that stretch. Like a wounded animal, they are sure to give the Brahmas trouble tonight, as is usual on their home ice. Expect to see Torrie Jung defending the Laredo net tonight. Jung is 3-3-0 this season and is ranked 19th in the league with a 3.08 GAA and a .903 save percentage.

Dan Riedel and Roger Maxwell are set as scratches for tonight's game.

On Saturday night, the Brahmas will be at the State Farm Arena in Hidalgo to take on the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees for the third time this season. The teams have split the series thus far, with the Brahmas hosting the two previous meetings at the NYTEX Sports Centre. On October 22nd, the Brahmas won 3-2 and on November 13th, the Killer Bess won in a 4-3 shootout decision. The Bees are 3-0-1 at home this season and are enjoying a 6-4-2 start to their season which has placed them in third place in the Berry Conference, just ahead of the Brahmas.

The Brahmas will be challenged by Rio Goalie Juliano Pagliero (6-3-2-1), who has more ice time (678:33) than any other net minder in the league. He has a 2.56 GAA (10th in the league) and a .923 save percentage (8th in the league).

This should be a good trip for the boys who should come home with at least two points but I'm betting on all four. Go Brahmas!

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

Aaron Lee sends the puck flying past Kevin Beech during tonight's shootout

The difference between one point and two...

Killer Bees sting Brahmas with 4-3 loss

Over 2,000 fans were treated to an entertaining night of hockey at the NYTEX Sports Centre on Saturday, but the end result was a loss for the Texas Brahmas; their fifth of the season and their second in a shootout. On the bright side, the home team earned a point in the standings and at 5-3-2 (12 points), they are just two points behind the Killer Bees, who go to 6-3-2 (14 Points).

The action in the first frame reflected how well-matched the two teams were and only a questionable Tripping call on Craig Minard at the 7:41 mark provided an advantage for either side. The Brahmas penalty killers (currently fifth in the league at 85.45%) shut that advantage down easily, by the way.

The Brahmas got the first tally of the night at the 12:11 mark when Chad Woollard (appearing in his 300th game with the purple and black) took a pass from Greg Hogeboom off the boards and charged in from center ice untouched on an oh-so-lonely Juliano Pagliero. Pagliero was able to get a piece of the puck but it would trickle between his pads past the goal line. Steven Later was credited with the assist.

Presented with two man-advantages later in the period, Texas' struggling power play unit (third from the bottom at 13.33%) was unable to capitalize and the period ended with Rio possessing a 14-9 shot advantage but down by a 1-0 score.

The Killer Bees accounted for five of the six infractions levied during the middle twenty which gave the Brahmas plenty of scoring chances, including an early five-on-three opportunity. On a side-note, sort of - during the 2007-08 season, my running joke among seatmates whenever the boys had a 5-on-3 was "If they can't score here, then there's something wrong." Who knew that the power play would never improve. Suffice it to say, the Brahmas didn't convert on the 5-on-3.

12:03 into the period, the Bees' newest forward and former Brahma Ryan McLeod tallied the equalizer after picking up the puck on the near side of the crease, following a rebound from an Aaron Lee shot. McLeod took a fore-handed shot which beat Kevin Beech and found the back of the open net. Aaron Lewicki earned the secondary assist on that one.

Back to the Brahmas' special teams. On October 30th, the boys had their best special teams play of the young season when they scored three power play goals (Riedel, Lawrence, Later) and killed 7 of 8 man-advantages in a 5-3 win against the visiting Arizona Sundogs. That was also the last time they scored on the power play (26 straight power plays without a score followed). A Holding call on Bees defenseman Matt Smyth set the stage for Calin Wild to change that exactly three minutes after McLeod's goal, putting the Brahmas back on top 2-1 with a little help from Steven Later and Kevin Beech.

The Brahmas held an 11-7 shot-advantage in the period, which ended 4:57 later with the Brahmas holding another one goal lead.

There were just two penalties in the third period; the first, a Holding call on Tom Train, resulted in another Rio equalizer at the 6:10 mark when Zak McClellan, alone in front at the near side circle, buried the puck in the back of the net. Once again, the game was tied up. Jake Obermeyer and Sean Muncy were in on the assist.

Just 2:36 later, Chad Woollard and Jim Burichin set up a play for Mick Lawrence, who soared in from the left face off circle to Pagliero's glove side and sent the puck rocketing past to regain the lead at 3-2.

The undaunted Bees were able to tie the game again at the 11:16 mark after Ryan McLeod came streaking down the far side of the ice and fed Tomas Klempa in front of the crease. Klempa then proceeded to one-time it to the back of the net for his team-leading seventh goal of the season. Aaron Lewicki also assisted. There would be no further scoring in the period and the game was sent into overtime despite a hearty scramble by the Killer Bees to earn the regulation win. They led the third frame with a 11-5 shot advantage.

The overtime period yielded a single shot on goal for each squad and the game was decided in sudden death overtime when Thomas Klempa, the Bees' second shooter, tallied the game-winner. Aaron Lee also sent one in to ice the win.

None of the Brahmas shooters (Woollard, Lawrence, Hogeboom, Krischuk) were able to beat Pagliero, although a couple looked like they beat themselves. Yes, probably the worst shootout performance I've witnessed in recent memory (for the record, I didn't like the choices - nothing against the shooters, but I would've factored in Pierce and Train against this net minder).

The Killer Bees had the 34-26 shot advantage in the game.

Kevin Beech stopped 30 of 33 shots faced in 65 minutes of play and takes the loss. His record goes to 4-1-1-1 with a 2.52 GAA and a .926 save percentage.

Juliano Pagliero, the hardest working goalie in the league (in terms of playing minutes), stopped 23 of 26 shots faced and all four shots in the shootout to earn the win. His record goes to 6-2-2-1.

The Brahmas went 1 for 7 on the power play while Rio went 1 for 4. The Brahmas were assessed 8 minutes on 4 infractions. The Killer Bees received 14 minutes on 7 infractions.

The 3rd Star of the game went to Chad Woollard who had a goal and an assist on the night. The 2nd Star was awarded to Steven Later who had two assists and the 1st Star went to Thomas Klempa with two goals, including the game-winner.

Referee: Jon McIssac
Linesmen: Chris Petrin, Jean Minard

You can view the box score here and the Game Live broadcast here

You can view the Brahmas' press release here

You can view my photos from the game here and here

The Brahmas have a few days to regroup - they will hit the road on Thursday afternoon for a trip down South to face the Laredo Bucks on Friday night and the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees on Saturday night. They'll return home on Sunday before head back on the road to face the Odessa Jackalopes on Tuesday night (I can already hear the crickets chirping inside the Ector County Coliseum - that's referring the the 300 seats filled, which will be reported as 3,000).

A busy Thanksgiving week for the boys will have them return to host the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs on Wednesday, the Laredo Bucks on Friday and the Mudbugs once again on Saturday. Be prepared Brahmas fans, for it's not just hockey. Be there, be loud, believe!

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

Minzy's Back!

At least temporarily...

Veteran defenseman and former team captain Craig Minard has re-signed with the Texas Brahmas according to Pointstreak.com.

suspension and Jesse This is a temporary thing...there area couple of holes in the blue line to fill due to Ross Rouleau's suspension and Jesse Dudas on leave (granted by the league today) for a short time. Whatever the reason, it'll be great seeing Minzy back in the purple and black!

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

Rookie wing Tyler Allen tallied four points (1 G, 3 A) against Odessa tonight
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Brahmas, Allen stick it to the Jackalopes
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Four goal third period secures win at NYTEX

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The Texas Brahmas, featuring a tremendous performance by Tyler Allen, routed the visiting Odessa Jackalopes 4-1 tonight at the NYTEX Sports Centre. Allen was in on all four Brahma scores.

Three of the Brahmas' scores came from rookie players and Kevin Beech had another solid night in net, stopping 31 shots. With the win, the Brahmas improve to 5-3-1 and 3-1-0 at home.

Odessa's Jeff Pierce scored the first goal of the game on a feed from Morgan MacLean, who forced a turnover at the Texas blue line. Pierce fired a wrister from the right circle, beating Kevin Beech at the 4:05 mark of the opening frame.

Both teams had a power play opportunity later in the period but neither capitalized on the man-advantage. Odessa led the shot count 14-9 in the first 20 minutes.

Odessa also had a 14-12 edge in shots during the middle frame but Beech and his counterpart Michel Robinson remained solid in net.

And then there was the third period. Calin Wild tallied the equalizer (his third goal of the season) just 39 seconds into the frame with the assists coming from Greg Hogeboom and Tyler Allen.

The only fight of the night came at the 2:02 mark when Tom Train, fresh off of injured reserve, squared off against Odessa's number one thug, Alex Dunn.

47 seconds later, the Brahmas took a 2-1 lead when defenseman Jim Burichin tallied his first professional goal with a little help from Steven Later and Tyler Allen. Allen scored his fourth goal of the season with the assists credited to Calin Wild and Mick Lawrence. Lawrence buried an empty-netter with 1:07 remaining in the contest to secure the 4-1 final score. Alex Curran assisted as did Tyler Allen, who earned his fourth point on the night.

Kevin beech stopped 31 of 32 shots faced to earn the win. His record goes to 4-1-0-1 with a 2.46 GAA (7th in the league) and a .930 save percentage (4th in the league).

Michel Robinson stopped 32 of 35 shots faced and takes his second loss in as many games in net for the Jackalopes.

Neither team was able to capitalize on the power play. The Brahmas finished 0 for 5 while Odessa was held scoreless on three tries. The Brahmas penalty kill was perfect for its second consecutive game. They are now second in the league with a 86.27 penalty kill percentage.

The Brahmas were assessed 11 minutes on 4 infractions. The Jackalopes received 15 minutes on 6 infractions. The Brahmas are now third in the league (Behind Mississippi and Arizona) with 296 PIM.

The 3rd Star of the game went to Kevin Beech for his efforts in net tonight. The 2nd Star was awarded to Calin Wild who had a goal and an assist and the 1st Star went to Tyler Allen with four points on the night.

Referee: T.J. Nua
Linesmen: Brian Bull, Nathaniel Farkas

You can view the box score here and the Game Live broadcast here

You can view the Brahmas' press release here

Sorry, no game photos tonight as it was date night for Mr. and Mrs. Insider.

The Brahmas will host the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees on Saturday night with the opening puck drop at 7:30pm.

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

Brett Jaeger interview at InGoal Magazine

Heather Galindo talks to the former Brahma about goaltending in the UK's Elite League

When we learned that Brett Jaeger would not be returning to the Texas Brahmas, there was much apprehension about who would take his place. After all, Jaeger was our championship goalie and considering the available options, there was definitely concern about his replacement.

But with the tandem of Kevin Beech and Wayne Savage currently securing the Brahmas' net, that apprehension has melted away and Brett Jaeger, who had a rough start in his new gig with the Coventry Blaze, is now leading the UK's Elite League with a 2.48 GAA and a .926 save percentage. He's managed two shutouts thus far and is currently backstopping the Blaze on an 11-game win streak.

My friend Heather Galindo has published a great interview with Jaegs this week at InGoal Magazine, which includes some amazing video of a trademark Jaeger save.

Read it here

Photo Credit: Mark Tredgold

Three Brahmas, three Sundogs placed on league suspension

Saturday night’s brawls take their toll

The Central Hockey League has placed six players on suspension for their actions in the second period brawl that took place during Saturday night’s game at the NYTEX Sports Centre.

The Brahmas’ Todd Griffith received the heftiest penalty at four games. He’ll be available to play on November 23rd, when the Brahmas travel to the Ector County Coliseum to take on the Odessa Jackalopes. In addition, Jason Deitsch and defenseman Ross Rouleau received two game suspensions. They will miss this weekend’s home games against Odessa and the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees but will be able to play on November 19th when the Brahmas travel to the border to play the Laredo Bucks.

For the Sundogs, Adam Smyth received a one game suspension (apparently for a later Clipping incident) while defensemen Clayton Barthel (?) and Tyler Butler received two and one game suspensions, respectively.

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

A dejected Sundogs bench - you almost had to feel sorry for them, but not really

Owned!

Brahmas win third straight against the Sundogs; Beech stops 26 shots in 4-0 shutout

Oh, what a night for hometown hockey in North Texas! This one had it all - A shutout, a defenseman go through the glass, a perfect penalty-kill, an opposing defenseman fighting his way inside the Brahmas bench, 178 combined penalty minutes, nine game misconducts, at least four ejections that I can remember...I can go on and on. Suffice it to say, if you missed this one, you missed an entertaining night of hockey at the NYTEX Sports Centre.

Things started out calm enough, but given the history between these two clubs, there was sure to be an eruption eventually.

Steven Later took out a pane of glass along the half boards in the Brahmas' defensive zone at the 4:38 mark of the opening frame after attempting a hit on Arizona's John Wessbecker. But the gangly defenseman avoided the check, sending Later into the glass and the game was delayed for almost 20 minutes while repairs were made.

Arizona dominated early in the first period, holding the Brahmas without a shot on net through the game's first six minutes. The Brahmas responded, controlling the second half of the opening frame and would out shoot the Sundogs 17-9. Chad Woollard notched the only score, putting the Brahmas on the board at the 18:45 mark. Jason Deitsch was in on the assist.

There were nine penalties assessed in the first 20 minutes - Roughing, Slashing, Board checking, Tripping - the physical nature of the game was showing itself and the bad blood was getting ready to boil.

Remarkably, no additional penalties were called until the last two and a half minutes of the the middle frame.

Five hole (noun) - the opening between a goaltender's parted legs. The four corners of the goal being the other four holes

Greg Hogeboom opened a two-goal lead for the Brahmas after beating Szuper five hole at the 8:56 mark. Deitsch and Woollard assisted on the play for their second points of the contest.

A steal by Mick Lawrence at center ice set up the Brahmas third goal of the night when he and Jesse Dudas teamed up to feed the puck to Dan Riedel, who sent a bad-angle shot from below the goal line off the back of Szuper at the 13:17 mark.

A Slashing call on Chad Woollard at the 17:30 mark sent the Sundogs on the power play and the next 60 seconds would definitely set the tone for the remainder of the evening.

Mind you, my view was quite obstructed from my position between Wayne Savage and Doug Groenestege, but here's what I think I saw -Arizona defenseman Tyler Butler exchanged some blows with Todd Griffith in front of the Brahmas' bench and Griffith delivered Butler smack dab into the bench.

Calin Wild held off Mark Kolanos while Ross Rouleau threw would-be rescuer Joey Sides to the ice. Cam Keith tried to work his way into the melee but was subdued by Sean Hurley and Steven Later, who skated him away from the scene. Jason Deitsch, who was on the bench when Butler came to visit, apparently got into a tussle with his guest before linesman T.J. Nua could pull the blue liner to safety.

In the end, Referee Geoff Miller handed out 90 minutes worth of penalties, including Fighting Majors and Game Misconducts for Griffith, Rouleau, Deitsch, Butler, Sides and Keith. Griffith and Deitsch were sent in for early showers, as was Butler (I'm not sure who else) while backup goalie Doug Groenestege handled cheer leading duties from the Arizona bench.

There would be no more scoring in the remainder of the period in which Arizona had a 13-8 shot advantage.

Skating 4-on-4 after a fight between Chad Woollard and Samuel Grenache, Greg Hogeboom notched his second of the game 10:52 into the third period, one-timing a Jason Krischuk centering feed past Szuper and extending the Brahmas' lead to 4-0. Alex Curran was also in on the assist.

Steven Later and Adam "I'm no angel" Smyth did battle at the 16:19 mark, rounding out the fight card for the night.

The Brahmas had control of the final period and out shot the hapless Sundogs 12-4 before declaring victory thanks in no small part to the efforts of Kevin Beech, who turned away everything sent in his direction.

Kevin Beech stopped 26 of 26 to earn his first shut out as a Brahma. His record goes to 3-1-0-1 with a 2.93 GAA (that first 4:19 of the season opener really hurt) and a .918 save percentage.

Levente Szuper, making his Sundogs debut, allowed four goals on 37 shots in the loss.

Neither team was able to capitalize on the power play. The Brahmas finished 0 for 8 while the Sundogs were held scoreless on four tries.

The Brahmas were assessed 91 minutes on 18 infractions. The Sundogs received 87 minutes on 20 infractions.

The 3rd Star of the game went to Chad Woollard who had a goal and an assist on the night. The 2nd Star was awarded to Greg Hogeboom who had two goals and the 1st Star went to Kevin Beech for a perfect night in goal.

Referee: Geoff Miller
Linesmen: Chris Petrin, T.J. Nua

You can view the box score here and the Game Live broadcast here

You can view the Brahmas' press release here

You can view my photos from the game here and here

The Brahmas have the week to rest up before they host the Odessa Jackalopes on Friday, November 12th and the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees on Saturday, November 13th.

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

Chad Woollard's wrister made it a 1-0 game 3:12 into the first was the high point for the Brahmas who allowed four unanswered goals in the next 35 minutes

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That's the way hockey go

Brahmas lose third straight against the Americans

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, Texas (November 5)- A two game winning streak was snapped for Texas Friday night as they fell 4-2 to their cross-town rivals, Allen Americans.

Chad Woollard has made the Allen Events Center his home away from home, proven when he helped give Texas an early lead in the first period, beating Chris Whitley between the pipes.

American forward Jarret Lukin evened the game when he took the puck top shelf on Wayne Savage at the 8:38 mark.

In the end of the period Matt Pierce took a costly tripping penalty where Allen was able to convert with the man advantage with ten ticks remaining on the power play.

After a scoreless second period, the home team came out ready beginning with Lukin’s second goal of the contest. Thirty-seven seconds later the Americans were able to strike again against an unsettled Savage to take the 4-1 lead.

Brahmas rookie Tyler Allen cut the deficit in half, but it wasn’t enough as the Brahmas came short 4-2.

Texas returns to the NYTEX Sports Centre tomorrow night to face the Arizona Sundogs for a 7:30 pm face off.

Photo Credit: Robert Keith

Brahmas make trade for scorer Todd Griffith

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, Texas (November 3)- The Texas Brahmas offense received a boost Wednesday afternoon after acquiring forward Todd Griffith from the Laredo Bucks in exchange for Jeff Hazelwood.

Griffith played 33 games for the Bucks last season registering 27 points (12 G, 15 A) before making a tear in the Central Hockey League (CHL) postseason. In the playoffs, Griffith led all Laredo scorers with nine points (6 G, 3 A) in 7 games. The Texas system is well aware of the numbers the 25-year-old center can put up as he tallied five points (4 G, 1 A) in five games against the Brahmas last season.

The Welland, ONT native has seen action in the ECHL (East Coast Hockey League) where he had 103 points (55 G, 48 A) in 130 games with the Bakersfield Condors, South Carolina Stingrays and Johnstown Chiefs. Before joining the Bucks last season, Griffith was playing his second stint with the Newcastle Vipers (EIHL) where he amassed 27 points (17 G, 10 A) in 37 games.

Following his four year junior career in the OHL, Griffith joined the Bucks in their postseason run in 2006, familiarizing himself with the CHL. With his amateur status, he had three points (2 G, 1 A) in seven games.

In exchange for Griffith, the Brahmas sent forward Jeff Hazelwood to Laredo. Hazelwood had one goal in three games with Texas before getting sidelined on the 10-day IR retroactive to October 23.

After a two game series sweep of the Sundogs last weekend, Texas will face the desert dogs this Saturday as they host Arizona at the NYTEX Sports Centre for a 7:30 pm face off.