John E. Sokolowski-US PRESSWIRE
The Hershey Bears (Washington Capitals) play their final road game Wednesday night prior to the AHL Outdoor Classic, taking on the Worcester Sharks (San Jose Sharks) tonight. This is the third of four contests between the two clubs this season, with the final matchup slated for March 24th at the Worcester Sharks’ home rink, the DCU Center. Hershey holds an all-time 4-7-3 record against the Sharks and look to change past history tonight.
The two squads last met at Hershey’s home rink, at Giant Center on January 6th. Worcester skated to a 2-1 victory over the Bears, largely due to a strong goalie performance from the Sharks’ Alex Stalock. The Sharks’ Matt Tennsyon and Jon Matsumoto tallied goals for Worcester. Bears goalie’ Braden Holtby played well in net for Hershey, only allowing one shot past him on the night. Hershey forward Jeff Taffe registered the lone Bears goal, set up by forward and assistant captain Jon DiSalvatore.
Worcester enters tonight on a four game losing streak. The Sharks lost their fourth straight contest Sunday night, falling to the Portland Pirates by a 3-1 score. Worcester forward Brodie Reid recorded the lone Sharks goal.
The Bears had one of their most dominant performances Sunday night, defeating the Connecticut Whale 5-0. The Bears struck for four first period goals and Dany Sabourin earned the win in goal, even though he was removed after the first period as a precaution. Garrett Mitchell added a third period goal for Hershey to extend their lead.
Hershey goalie Philipp Gruabuer will get the start in net for the Bears tonight.
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