Sign up for the paNOW newsletter

Bruno sounds off

Feb 6, 2012 | 6:22 AM

paNOW.com Staff

Raider general manager Bruno Campese couldn't hold it in anymore. Following Friday night's 3-2 loss to Medicine Hat at the Art Hauser Centre, he criticized the officials for an inconsistent night that probably cost his team the game and pushed them closer to a spot out of the post season party.

Campese said what were not called penalties in the first two periods all off a sudden earned players trips to the penalty box in the third. The most blatant inconsistency happened within seconds. With the Raiders trailing 3-2 with four minutes to go in the third period, Centreman Anthony Bardero was hauled down while carrying the puck at the P.A. blue line, a play both referees decided not to call.

Bardero got up and took down the Medicine Hat forward to have the puck and received a tripping penalty. Instead of a potential game tying power play the Raiders were essentially taken out of the game while having to kill the Bardero penalty.

However, Campese said this has been happening for some time, accusing officials of making phantom calls and targeting certain players. The Raiders had only 7 power play opportunities on their recent three game road trip while facing 17. Heading into play this week, the Raiders and Lethbridge Hurricanes are tied for the most times on the penalty kill.

It became apparent Bruno had to get something off his chest during our post game show broadcast from the Ches Leach Lounge. He slowly made his way to the front of the room following interviews with Assistant Coach Dave Manson and Assistant Captain Harrison Ruopp.

When the microphone went live, Bruno Campese spoke his mind. His address was no stunt. It was emotional, hear felt and to the point. Campese felt the need to speak on behalf of the coaches, players and fans and judging by the applause from those in the room, he struck a chord.

The post-game interview will air again tonight at 6 o'clock on 900 CKBI's face off and we want your comments at 764-2524 or email faceoff@rawlco.com.

dwilson@rawlco.com