ABBOTSFORD, BC – The Abbotsford Heat defeated the Toronto Marlies 3-0 in the first of a two-game series at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre (AESC).

The Heat set an AHL record scoring two short-handed goals just three seconds apart early in the third period. Sven Baertschi added an empty netter for his fifth goal of the season. Heat netminder Barry Brust earned the team’s first shutout of the season, stopping all 22 shots he faced.

McCarthy's Goal

The Heat opened the scoring short-handed at 4:28 of the third period on Steve McCarthy’s first goal of the season. Carter Bancks had an assist on the play. On the ensuing faceoff, Ben Street shot the puck from centre ice and beat the Toronto goalie to put the Heat up 2-0. The previous AHL record for fastest consecutive short-handed goals was held by Jody Gage, who scored two goals eight seconds apart for the Rochester Americans in 1989.

The Heat outshot the Marlies 27-22 in the contest, despite being short-handed ten times on the night.

The Heat failed to score on three power play opportunities and the penalty kill was 10-for-10.

The Heat and Marlies meet again tomorrow night at the AESC for the second of their eight game season series. Tomorrow is Local Heroes Night and a Loonie Toonie Dog 'N Brew game, featuring $1 hotdogs and $2 beer. For tickets visit AbbotsfordHeat.com or call 1 877 452-HEAT (4328).