Utah State University...

 

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Utah State University Aggies (4) VS. Texas A&M University Aggies (3)

As the Aggies flew to Colorado on Wednesday evening, the weather forecasts for both locals were identical – cold, snow and cold. These promises were delivered as the Boulder a.m. temperature was +2 degrees and the Houston commuters travelled to work in a rare snow storm and the public schools closed at noon.

Just another day for folks with the mountain views...

The Aggies recognized their task and looked forward to the opening round game against the Utah State aggies, currently ranked 3rd in our respective region. Our reports indicated a well coached, strong, quick team with scoring ability – and Utah delivered.

Both teams engaged a physical, up tempo style through the contest. Up and down, good transitions and systems, balanced scoring situations. A&M tallied the lone score at the mid-point of the first period. At even strength, the Aggies applied pressure in the aggie zone. With a quick deke behind the net and confusion and congestion in front, Anthony Rapesak pulled a wrap around re-bound goal, 1-0.

With 16:36 remaining in the second period, Aggies take 2-0 lead. Jeff Diltz battled for a loose puck behind the aggie net minder, and Matt Moreno converted the quick pass low glove side.

With 10:35 remaining, the aggies capitalized on a power play, and less than a minute later tied the score on another Aggie lapse, 2-2 game.

The third period continued the physical play from both squads. At 12:13, an Aggie minor penalty allowed the aggies to notch a go ahead goal. Less than a minute later, the aggies take a 4-2 lead.

At 6:12, the Aggies close the lead. On our lone power play goal, Michael Zahner controlled the puck along the aggie boards. Generating an opening found Aubrey Berkowitz, mid slot, to close the gap to one.

Both teams battled to the end with strong goaltending to thwart the scoring opportunities. Unfortunately for the Aggies, time expired to a 4-3 loss.

Two evenly matched teams – we hope to provide the opportunity for a re-match.

Team Statistics:

                 Shots    Goals     PP      Minors

Aggies         34          3        1/12          6
'aggies         38          4        2/6          12

The Aggies next match-up for the Western Classic:

Friday December 4 5:30 pm VS. Colorado Buffaloes

BTHOC!