| Mike Liut
has created something of a problem for the Stingers. It wasn't intentional on his part,
and it's the kind of problem hockey coaches would like to be saddled with, but it's there
just the same. Liut, 21, us the rookie goaltender out of Bowling Green University who has
thrust himself into real duel with second year goalie Norm LaPointe for the No. 2 spot
behind veteran Ernie Wakely. It is unlikely that new Stinger coach Jacques Demers or the
front office brass anticipated the type of performance Liut has given in training camp and
exhibition games. It has resulted in both young goalies maintaining a holding pattern
until a decision is made on who stays in Cincinnati and who goes to Hampton of the
American Hockey League. "It's a tough decision for
them," Liut said of his Stinger bosses. "It's been difficult for me, too. I've
felt some pressure to perform, but that's what it's all about. You have to be able to
perform under pressure." Liut a native of Weston Ontario, who was considered one of
the best college goalies in the U.S. last year, agreed that it is unusual for a rookie
goaltender to break in with the big team, but he added that he didn't feel that precluded
his chances. "I don't think they expected much from me in camp," the business
pre-law major remarked following a practice session. "That's where the problem comes
in. They're probably wondering whether I'm just hot right now or I can really play. If
that's the case, I think they're underestimating me and I learned a long time ago that you
can't underestimate anyone. I really feel capable of playing here (major league). I'm not
really baffled by these guys."
Soviet juggernaut in the tournament at Prague, Czechoslovakia, the
rookie played so well in the Stingers' 5-2 loss that he earned the most valuable goalie
trophy over veterans of both the Russian and Czech squads. He looked equally strong in his
appearance in Finland. Last Thursday, Demers called on Liut to take over Wakely's spot in
the third period of the exhibition game at Hampton against the NHL Washington Capitals.
The team went into the final period tied 2-2 and Liut blanked the Caps while stopping 14
shots. "I think he (Demers) wanted to see what I'd do under some game pressure,"
Liut said. "It would be the same all season. Being rookie, I might cost the team a
game sometime, but being charged up I might win a big one too."
Liut who expects to play hockey as long as I'm able," admitted
a trip to Hampton wouldn't be his first choice. "I'd have to be a little
disappointed," he said. "I didn't come to camp to take second best. I also
understand there are other considerations, including someone who has been here and has
experience." He's convinced that should the Stingers decide to keep him here, he
won't face the prospect of only a few early season appearances and then a ticket to
Hampton. "I feel they'll stick with me if they keep me up," said the rookie.
"I don;t think it would be a case of sending me down if I have a bad game or two.
Whoever stays with the team will be here all year."
There's not much time left. The Stingers open against the
Indianapolis Racers at Riverfront Coliseum Wednesday night and there is room for only two
goalies when the season starts. |
