It was a highly anticipated opener for the Rochester Grizzlies. After a summer of preparation and two solid preseason games, the Grizzlies dropped the season opener on the road to Granite City 10-0.
The Grizzlies showed promise at times in their two preseason games, both against Coulee Region, but looked outmatched at times against the defending division champs.
Goalie Liam Kelly was awarded the start in today’s game, but he would not received much support. The Lumberjacks controlled play in the first couple minutes before Grant Troumbly scored what would be the first of three goals just 4:10 into the first period. Granite City would tack on two more goals in the period, including a power play goal from Zack DeBoom.
The second period wouldn’t fare much better for the Grizzlies. Granite City scored two goals in the first four minutes of the second period and didn’t look back from there. The Lumberjacks would score five goals in the second period to lead 8-0 through two. Troumbly would score his final two goals to complete his hat trick.
Maxim Clouser would get the nod in net to start the third period for the Grizzlies. Rochester played a much better third period, but still couldn’t muster up any offense. Granite City would tack on two more goals late in the third period to hit double digits.
Rochester was outshot 47-16 in the game, as Granite City goalie Matt Fitzgerald would earn a shutout.
The Grizzlies (0-1) are home next weekend for two games against the Evansville Jr. Thunderbolts. Friday night is the home opener and Saturday is Youth Hockey Night. Youth who wear their team jersey will get free admission. Both games are 7:05 pm start times.