JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (AP) -- A man who plays the role of Puckhead, the unofficial mascot of the Johnstown Chiefs hockey team, was burned when his fake beard and jersey ignited during a fire-breathing stunt that went awry.

John Robertson, who has played the role for several years, was entertaining the crowd before the start of Friday's minor league game against the Reading Royals when he was injured, Chiefs General Manager Toby O'Brien said.

According to witnesses, Robertson poured the flammable liquid into his mouth and tried to light it, but it didn't work.

When he tried a second time, Robertson's fake beard and jersey caught fire, and an arena employee rushed out to help him pull off his jersey as Robertson tore off the beard.

Robertson suffered minimal face and chest burns, O'Brien said, and was transported to Conemaugh Memorial Hospital for overnight observation and then released.

"He's a fan who is very much devoted to the city and the hockey team," O'Brien said. "I'm sure he'll be back on the ice" when he heals.

But will he ever do fire-breathing again?

"We'll see," O'Brien said.

Copyright 2005 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.