Charlotte, N.C. – The Springfield Thunderbirds (9-14-1-0) will look to fly back home with a split series as they rematch the Charlotte Checkers (13-8-0-1) on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. at the Bojangles Coliseum.

 

The Thunderbirds stumbled for the first time against Charlotte this season on Friday in a 4-1 loss. Warren Foegele recorded the final three goals of the game for the Checkers to secure his first pro hat trick. Foegele's night began with a shorthanded, breakaway tally at 4:13 of the second period to make it a 2-0 game.

 

Springfield again avoided being shut out for the first time this season when Blaine Byron extended his point streak to four games with a goal at 2:50 of the third period. In addition to the shorthanded goal allowed, the Thunderbirds' power play came up empty on the night, going 0-for-6 with the man advantage. The penalty kill did go 4-for-4 to extend its mark to 14-of-14 in the last three games. Sam Montembeault took the loss despite making 26 stops.

 

In spite of the loss, the Thunderbirds have still won seven of their last ten games and sit just seven points out of the fourth playoff spot in the Atlantic Division. Springfield's scheudule also becomes home-ice friendly as December rolls along, with seven of the final ten games before the New Year taking place at the MassMutual Center. The Thunderbirds boast a 7-6-0-0 record on home ice this season vs. just a 2-8-1-0 mark on the road.

 

Springfield begins that home-ice stretch with a pair of 7:05 p.m. ET matchups on Friday, Dec. 8 and Saturday, Dec. 9 against Rochester and Bridgeport respectively. Saturday's game marks the 2nd Annual T-Birds Teddy Bear Toss presented by Teddy Bear Pools & Spas.

 

Springfield Thunderbirds fans are encouraged to visit www.SpringfieldThunderbirds.com to learn more about Thunderbirds Season Ticket Memberships. Packages start at just $12 per game, and Thunderbirds Full Season Ticket Members receive the most benefits, including a refillable collector’s mug and a commemorative jersey. For more information or to order now, call (413) 739-GOAL (4625) or visitwww.SpringfieldThunderbirds.com.