Express home debut a hit

As far as entrances go, the Chicago Express sure knows how to make one.

Forward Kyle Ostrow scored 33 seconds into the game, propelling the Express to a 4-2 victory over the previously undefeated Kalamazoo Wings in the team's inaugural home game at the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates.

After a Wings turnover behind their own goal, Yannick Tifu corralled the loose puck and sent a perfect past to Ostrow for the goal, sending a crowd of 5,470 into a frenzy.

“We wanted to have a good start because it's a good way to get the fans into it,” Ostrow said.

His goal was just the start of a big first period, Pierre-Luc Faubert scoring with 9:45 left to make it 2-0.

The crowd also appreciated the extracurricular activities of some of Chicago's players as Bobby Robbins and Tim Spencer both dropped the gloves. Spencer took down the Wings' Harry Young, much to the fans' approval.

“It was awesome,” Ostrow said. “To have a first game with that much fan support really got us going. All of those fights … the fans really fed off that and it was nice to see. Hopefully we can continue to get that every game.”

The Express led 2-0 until 2 Wings goals in a 45-second span late in the third period tied the game.

But just as he did earlier, Ostrow provided the fireworks with the eventual game-winner with 6:41 remaining.

“I didn't love everything about the game, but I liked the beginning and I liked the finish,” Express coach Steve Martinson said.

It's clear the Express will be able to play a variety of styles. Chicago was the aggressor in the first period, outshooting Kalamazoo 10-5. But with a 2-goal lead, the Express turned its attention to defense.

Express home games provide plenty of entertainment value off the ice, as well. Attractions include train whistle and magnetic schedule giveaways, a train on the concourse and a kid zone. Sunday's game is “Family Day,” grants fans access to skate with the team. Friday's home game will feature $1 beer and $1 hot dogs.

An empty-net goal by Faubert with 1:19 left assured the Express a victory over last year's ECHL runners-up, meaning the franchise is 2-0 in its young history.

“It's family entertainment,” said Express general manager Wade Welsh. “Obviously we are winning right now, which is great, but the hockey is secondary to the family fun.”