Arizona State University Game 2...
Friday, January 16, 2009
Arizona State University Sun Devils (7) VS. Texas A&M University Aggies (5)
A&M again started the game strong with multiple scoring opportunities, but were unable to finish the task. However, the Sun Devils capitalized on their opportunities and set the games’ pace with an early 3-0 first period lead.
The Aggies re-grouped over the break and started the second period scoring at 19:05. Eric Engelking worked the puck to the low slot. Jeff Diltz, with a nifty move and a backhand over the goalie, put A&M on the board.
Three minutes later, the Sun Devils responded, 4-1.
Again, the Aggies re-grouped to score three un-answered goals. On an ‘owner’s bounce’ play, Brian Young took advantage of an errant puck clearing at 14:48.
Aggies scored again at 9:45. On a power play situation, ASU failed to clear their zone. Justin Cooley and Eric Engelking combined to allow Jeff Diltz the opportunity to beat the goalie, low glove side.
At 8:35, Dustin Roark forced the play to retain pressure in ASU territory. Nic Xenakis controlled the loose puck, deked a defender and fed Aubrey Berkowitz in the slot, 4-4.
ASU capitalized on another Aggie lapse, and the period ends 5-4.
Both teams entered the 3rd period on a mission with solid, evenly matched teams contesting for the victory. Both goalies’ stymied the opposition scoring opportunities, and truly earned the respect of both teams.
But sometimes the goals come from just shear hard work.
A&M tied the score with 15:46 remaining in the period. On a scrum in front of the ASU netminder, Dustin Roark corralled a rebound and tied the game at 5-5.
Both teams continued to battle, and the game seemed destined for overtime. But ASU had other ideas. With less than two minutes remaining, the Sun Devils launched a three-on-two, and scored with 1:38 remaining.
The Aggies generated a face-off in ASU territory and pulled their goalie for the extra attacker only to watch the Sun Devils score an empty net goal to finish the game scoring, 7-5.
We congratulate the Sun Devils on their hard earned victory – a well coached and well disciplined hockey Team. We also trust that the opportunity for a rematch exists in the future.
Games Notes:
Minor Penalties: ASU 5, A&M 7 (2nd least penalized game to date)
Next up, the Aggies enjoy a two week break as University classes begin this week.
Next Game:
Southern Methodist University
(Please refer to the schedule for dates and times.)
