Re: Colgate 2009-2010
Was at the UML game tonight, and the first thing I had to say was ... UML has a great arena. I felt like I was at an AHL game (then again, it's probably because the same building is host to the Lowell Devils of the AHL).
I was sitting in the visitor's section (Section B) in the front row, and had a great view of the action. There were several times where players were slammed into the boards near my location, and it was just one of those feelings you will always remember. Anyways, onto the game:
The 1st period we started out slowly, and it hurt us when we gave up a PPG on our 1st penalty of the night. But thankfully, we didn't give up as we were able to fight back and tie the game at one. However, UML was able to retake the lead -- because they were able to set up traffic in front of the net and just direct the puck at the net with nothing fancy in mind. If we're going to score goals this season, we need to do that.
The 2nd period was a real thriller, as I was able to see both Colgate goals close-up as well as the lead-up to the scores. Colgate's 2nd goal (Brisebois) was a beautiful one, as I saw him beat his defender, fire a shot at the goalie, then get his own rebound and capitalize on the opportunity. Then our 3rd goal was amazing to watch as well, as the puck trickled into our offensive zone, and Bourdon was able to control it and beat the goalie for the score. The Colgate crowd in attendance (albeit small compared to the UML crowd) was making noise for all 3 goals, and the players on the ice were giving Bourdon the "congratulatory hug" right in front of where I was standing.
Unfortunately, the 3rd period was once again, a disaster. Another PPG allowed, then on the 4th goal (the one that went under review), it looked like Evin had covered up the puck, then was shoved into his own net, forcing the puck out of his control and behind him. I couldn't tell whether the whistle was blown before or after, but it's just one of those situations where the call went against us, and as a result, we were gagging in disbelief, resulting in UML's 5th goal not too long after.
As far as goaltending goes, Evin played a good "50 minutes". But after the 3rd UML goal (thankfully Don Vaughan called a timeout), it looked like he was primed for a fall (just like the Yale game last Jan). I just hope this was another learning experience for the team. We need to play a FULL 60 minutes and NOT just try and "coast our way to a victory" in the 3rd period. Any small mistake and it could cost us the game.
I am happy to see that freshmen are lighting the lamp though. Christian Long has 2 goals, Bartliff one, Bourdon one. If these 3 players can keep it up in addition to Day, Smith, and McIntyre (I just hope the preseason pressure isn't keeping him from doing his thing), we'll have solid depth at offense. Defense is slowly getting better despite 3rd period breakdowns. Goaltending is looking okay, I'm glad that Evin is getting some starts as it'll benefit him in the long run. Congrats are in order for Adam Corrin (1st career point at Colate) and Robbie Bourdon (1st career goal). Hopefully we can get all the kinks out come league play.
) -- difficult test for both teams.
