Re: WCHA Thread V
Final Score From Tuesday, November 11th
Mercyhurst 3
Ohio State 0
Mercyhurst Prevails In Defensive Battle
The Laker offense didn't exactly come in waves. Nor did the Buckeye offense drive Mercyhurst nuts. Defense ruled the evening. Each team limited the other to 16 shots on goal. No one from either team put a shot on net in the first seven minutes of the game.
In the end, a small edge on special teams made a big difference. The well-designed Mercyhurst PP was able to create some odd-man situations down low; and the Lakers cashed in one of those chances on the third attempt. On the other side of ledger, the Mercyhurst PK held the Buckeyes scoreless in 7 attempts, including a major.
The 3 Stars of the Game: Decidedly Unofficial and Just For Fun
Mercyhurst Honorable Mention: Amanda Makela
Though not severely tested, the Laker Goalie was certainly strong when she had to be. And Amanda did, after all, record a shutout.
Ohio State Honorable Mention: Taylor Kuehl
Taylor was determined on the forecheck and tough in the face-off circle. On draws, she won 9 of 13 attempts.
#3 Star: Cara Zubko, Ohio State
Though coming up just short, the Buckeye 'D' turned in a strong defensive effort. On this night Cara Zubko represents the group. Defending a Laker 2 on 1 rush, Cara selflessly smothered a cross ice pass attempt, shutting down the play. Maybe it's just me, but that's the positive image I'll carry forward from tonight's game.
#2 Star: Hannah Bale, Mercyhurst
Hannah's blistering top shelf shot gave the Lakers a huge insurance goal seven minutes into the third period. Credit also goes to
Jennifer MacAskill, who held the puck in the zone along the boards, springing Bale on the rush.
#1 Star: Molly Byrne, Mercyhurst
Simply had to use the top pick for a member of the Laker 'D' corps, and Molly was quite solid in her end of the rink. The O-Zone was particularly crowded tonight. Layers of Lakers, led by Byrne, took away most of the time and space.
Molly also had the primary assist on the GWG, brilliantly steering the puck across the slot to a wide-open
Sarah Robello. Sarah did her part, tapping the puck into the open goal cage. Finally, on the empty netter, Byrne won the initial battle along the boards to start the scoring play. Three teammates later, the puck was in the net. Her name doesn't appear on the scoresheet for that one, but I'm sure Molly doesn't mind.
Next Up: The Buckeyes Host Minnesota Friday Evening and Saturday Afternoon.