The game ends 5-1 (UND adds an empty-net goal by Chay Genoway, and Princeton scores with 32 seconds left on a wrist shot from MacIntyre). For the Tigers it was a well-played game, but a few penalties really hurt them. Discipline was one of this team's strong suits all year, today it just got to them. Great game by Lamoureux (he may be playing his way to the Hobey Baker award) as well as the UND top line of Duncan-Oshie-Miller, which had a hand in all five goals.
It was a great season for the Tigers - perhaps the best in school history - and the players have a lot to be proud of. It saw Princeton's first ever outright ECAC title, the most wins, most conference wins and best finish. The team also garnered a number of postseason honors - including ECAC Coach of the Year, Player of the Year, Student-Athlete of the Year and Team Sportsmanship award, as well as a Hobey Baker finalist and two All-American candidates.
Congrats to the players and their families, and thanks for spending the afternoon with me. A more comprehensive recap will appear on the Daily Princetonian website, www.dailyprincetonian.com a little later in the evening.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Game Over
Period 3 - 5:12
Princeton pulls Kalemba for the man advantage, and almost immediately, UND ices the game. The empty-net goal, scored by Ryan Duncan, gives the Sioux a 4-0 lead. The goal is Duncan's third of the night.
Period 3 - 6:06
Offsetting penalties at 13:54
Princeton: # 17 Kevin Kaiser - 2:00 for slashing
UND: # 4 Chay Genoway - 2:00 for hitting after the whistle
Period 3 - 6:43
The third goal seems to have taken some wind out of the Tigers' sails. They are still playing well - better than UND you could argue - but the extra fire is not there. A three-goal lead at this stage of the game against a team like North Dakota is virtually insurmountable.
Period 3 - 11:47
GOAL NORTH DAKOTA
On a play very similar to the second goal, the puck was passed around from point to point until a cross-ice pass from Jake Martens found Ryan Duncan all alone in front of the net. Kalemba covered low and the buried the puck in the top of the net.
Period 3 - 13:37
Penalty on Princeton.
#16 Brett Wilson - 2:00 for interference
Not a smart penalty to take. Both UND goals have come from the man advantage, and the Tigers do not have two minutes to burn at this stage in the game.
Period 3 - 14:30
The Tigers have been excellent in the early parts of this period as well, but Lamoureux has been just as good. The Tigers are outshooting the Sioux 31-13 but cannot solve the man wearing a white Number 1 between the pipes.
Period 3 - 18:11
Good power play for the Tigers. Sophomore defenseman Jody Pederson hits the post on a shot from the point and Magnowki gets a good look in front. The penalty is over.
Period 2 - Notes
The second period was perfect for the Tigers in every way, except for on the scoreboard. They dominated the Sioux on offense and on defense but were unable to beat Lamoureux.
In short, Princeton needs to come out in the third period and do exactly what it did in the second. It got possession in the attacking third and got bodies in front of the net, and the defensemen have gotten involved up front. The Tigers have also grown more creative as the game has progressed, which will prove vital if they plan on beating Lamoureux.
The UND power play has been its saving grace so far this afternoon - though the second goal was technically not a power-play goal, it was scored a second after Moore left the box - and looking ahead, the Tigers will need to stay out of the box.
Princeton is currently on its first power play of the game, and this is an excellent chance to claw back into the game. Look for the Tigers to keep pressing, and if they can keep up this sustained pressure, they find the net in the third.
Period 2 - Ends
The Tigers muster up a good chance to end the period but are unable to find the net. After two, the score is 2-0 North Dakota.
Period 2 - 0:34
That goal is a bitter pill to swallow for the Tigers. They were dominating the period, and the penalty, a bad call, broke up the rhythm.
Still, the Tigers press on. A good chance for MacIntyre is stopped in front of the net, and after Magnowski is pulled down in front, the Tigers head to their first power play of the game.
#4 Taylor Chorney - 2:00 for checking from behind @ 19:25
The Tigers will get the bulk of this power play in the third period.
Period 2 - 3:32
Great shorthanded chance for Magnowski. The sophomore forward was open in front of the next and tried to make Lamoureux commit, but Lamoureux was patient, showing why he's a Hobey Baker finalist. Later in the kill, Fedun skates in with a solid chance, but Lamoureux is up to the challenge once again.
GOAL NORTH DAKOTA
As the penalty expires, Ryan Duncan receives a nice cross-ice pass from TJ Oshie, and after Kalemba goes down, lifts the puck over the Tiger goaltender.
Period 2 - 5:45
Two more good looks for Princeton. MacIntyre and Wilson this time. Lamoureux has been solid, however, and has not looked rattled all afternoon.
Penalty on Moore, 2:00 for holding at 14:15
Terrible call. Moore and Sioux forward were entangled, and the penalty was called when he broke free.
Period 2 - 7:37
More pressure from Princeton. The Lohry-Pridham-Stankievech line has been great, and MacIntyre is playing a very solid game. Reeling, the Sioux have picked up the hitting, but the Tigers are hitting back. Good looks from Moore and Lohry are stopped by Lamoureux.
Period 2 - 12:49
Great chance for Fedun in the slot. That shot may have hit MacIntyre on the way in. Thats exactly what the Tigers need. Defensemen pinching and bodies to screen Lamoureux.
A great through pass gives Duncan a breakaway, but Kalemba is up to the challenge. Good save. UND caught Princeton napping right there.
Period 2 - 15:01
Great shift from Lohry, Pridham and Stankievech. The Tigers are playing their best hockey of the afternoon right now. UND seems to have come out flat and Princeton is taking advantage. Kushniruk and Wilson both get one-on-ones and both elect to try 15 foot slap shots. The Tigers need possession and Lamoureux is too good for that. Princeton needs to either slow its fast breaks when they enter the zone, or try for something more productive than shots through a wide-open lane.
Period 2 - 17:45
On the game, the Tigers are outshooting the Sioux, 10-6, but that stat is misleading. Aside from a few exceptions, the UND chances have been much better.
A good start for UND, but a loose puck is cleared out of the crease by Godlewski. The Tigers come the other way with two good shots from the point, one from Moore and the other from Fedun.
Period 1 - Notes
The Tigers have proven that they can play with the nation's best. Now it is time to prove that they can score on the nation's best as well. The Tigers opened the game sluggishly but found their stride a few minutes in and kept it for most of the period. The Sioux goal, scored on the power play, shows exactly how dangerous they can be. Up a man, UND refused to rush a shot, and after a slew of maybe a dozen passes, it found a man with an open look. The Tigers did kill a penalty about a minute after the goal, but certainly do not want to tempt fate, so discipline is a must the rest of the way.
The Tigers also need to find a way to shut down the UND top line of TJ Oshie, Ryan Duncan and Brad Miller. Princeton has played well against all the other lines, but this group - which consists of A Hobey Baker winner and a 2008 finalist - has put the Tigers on their heels. Kalemba has been excellent against them, but Tiger blueliners need to start shutting this line down.
On offense, the Tigers need to keep the puck deep. Much like the game against Colgate last weekend, Princeton is having trouble establishing possession in the attacking third. Princeton needs to get the puck deep, allowing its defenders to join the play on offense. The Tigers are at their best when Moore, Godlewski, Fedun and Pederson get involved at the top of the circles. Against a fast talented team like UND, that is difficult to do, but Princeton's blueliners need to start getting involved. Lamoureux is good enough that, as Tiger head coach Guy Gadowsky says, "if he can see it, he will stop it." The Tigers need to get in his face and deflect some puck on the way to the net.
Overall, a good period for the Tigers. They have earned the respect of the Sioux, and have proven that they can apply some pressure up front. Now it's time to capitalize on that pressure. If the Tigers can get the puck deep and bodies in front, this game is well within reach.
Period 1 - Ends
And the period comes to an end. The Tigers get a few nice opportunities to close the period, but Lamoureux is too good for these shots. 1-0 UND after one. A good start for the Tigers - the Sioux goal comes on the power play - and there is a lot here to build on heading into period number two.
Period 1 - 2:10
Another good start on the penalty kill for Princeton. A few missed opportunities to clear, but the Tigers escape unscathed.
Period 1 - 5:23
Penalty on the Tigers once again. After the UND powerplay nets the first goal, the Tigers give them another chance.
#4 Taylor Fedun - 2:00 for hooking @ 14:37
This is a critical kill for Princeton
Injury Alert
Injured player on the ice. It is freshman forward Mike Kramer, who was blindsided along the near boards. Not a dirty hit, but Kramer never saw it coming. He is up now, and skates to the bench with the help of his teammates. He seems to have injured his right arm.
Period 1 - 6:21
GOAL NORTH DAKOTA
A good kill by the Tigers until Andrew Kozekscores from Kalemba's left side. UND passed the puck around to get a open look, ands Kozek beats Kalemba over the right shoulder.
Period 1 - 7:49
Penalty on Princeton.
#14 Mark Magnowski - 2:00 for Tripping @ 12:11
Unintentional and inadvertent, but it had to be called. This will test the Tigers penalty kill.
Period 1 - 8:42
The Sioux are picking up the intensity now. Shots on goal are tied, but both teams have had a few deflections in front.
Princeton had its best possession of the afternoon - the Wilson, Jubinville, Kramer line - and the game seems to be evening out. A good shift by MacIntyre follows.
TJ Oshie said yesterday that "We don't know anything about Princeton...All we can really worry about at this point is ourselves and having out best game of the season," but the Sioux seem to be feeling the Tigers out right now. Princeton seemed a step slower in the first few minutes, but they seemed to have found a new gear in the last five.
Period 1 - 11:51
Action at both ends now. The game is starting to speed up, with some open ice hits from both sides. Pridham has a breakaway cut off by Lamoureux and solid Princeton defense denies UND a chance coming the other way.
Period 1 - 15:09
First real sustained attack by the Sioux. Kalemab comes up with some nice saves, and the Tigers blueliners do a great job of clearing the doorstep. That was Oshie and Duncan for UND.
Period 1 - 16:18
The Tigers get their first real chance of the night when a shot from senior forward Erik Pridham is deflected wide by senior forward Landis Stankievech. Good start for Princeton.
Period 1 - 18:24
And we're underway. The Tigers control the draw. This is an Olympic-sized rink, bigger than any the Tigers have played on all season. It will be interesting to see how they adjust.
Good work by the Tigers early. They do not seem intimidated. Good first shifts from Fedun and Wilson, but the Sioux are undoubtedly controlling play.
Starting Line-Ups
Princeton:
Zane Kalemba - Goalie - Sophomore
Brad Schroeder - Defenseman - Sophomore
Matt Godlewski - Defenseman - Freshman
Kyle Hagel - Forward - Senior
Brandan Kushniruk - Forward - Senior
Kevin Kaiser - Forward - Sophomore
North Dakota:
JP Lamoureux - Goalie - Senior
Taylor Chorney - Junior
Robbie Bina - Defenseman - Senior
Ryan Duncan - Forward - Junior
TJ Oshie - Forward - Junior
Brad Miller - Forward - Junior
Strategy
The Tigers' success this afternoon hinges first and foremost on the play of Kalemba. If Kalemba plays at the level he showed last weekend, this could be a very long day for the Sioux. On defense, the Tigers need to establish themselves early, both as a stingy defense, but also a group of blueliners ready and willing to match the UND physicality and intensity.
On offense the Tigers need to get into a rhythm and trust the Princeton style of play. The Tigers were successful all season when they dumped the puck deep, got forwards low and bodies in front of the net. If Princeton can get some sustained possession in the offensive third, then they can find a way to beat JP Lamoureux.
Three Keys to the Game
1) Come out strong - Not many people give the Tigers a chance in this game, but if they show in the dfirst 10 minutes that they are here to play, it will do a lot for their confidence.
2) Play Your Game- The Tigers need to not get sucked into the UND style of play. If they play Princeton Hockey - back check, get bodies in front, block shots - they can grind down the Sioux forwards and defensemen.
3) Establish Yourselves Physically - This will be a long day for the Tigers if the Sioux push them around from the start. Princeton has the size and intensity to match UND, they just need to show it.
Preview: Princeton
If JP Lamoureux is the nation's best goaltender, it is difficult to find a place for Princeton sophomore netminder Zane Kalemba. Kalemba was incredible in the ECAC playoffs - his three shutouts set a single tournament record and tied the career record - record a 3:09:59 stretch in which he did not allow a goal. Kalemba was, to no one's surprise, voted to the ECAC All-Tournament team and received the award for Player of the Tournament.
Kalemba is not the only Tigers who has been hot of late. Senior defenseman Mike Moore has also been excellent, both in shutting down opponents and on the offensive side. His linemate, freshman Taylro Fedun, has also been excellent.
On offense, the Tigers have received contributions from absolutely everyone. It is impossible to mention the Tigers with the names Lee Jubinville and Brett Wilson, but in the playoffs especially, the younger players have found their stride. Jubinville (12 goals, 26 assists) led the ECAC in point this season, and was voted the ECAC's Player of the Year. His efforts also earned him a spot as a Hobey Baker finalist, and, along with Moore, was one of the Tigers' two All-American candidates. Wilson, a junior forward, led the team in goals this season with 15, including a huge power play goal in the ECAC finals against Harvard.
Aside from Wilson and Jubinville, the Tigers have received strong playoff efforts from freshman forwards Matt Arhontas and freshman Kevin Lohry. Arhontas has scored in five of the Tiger's last six games, and Lohry, with a unique blend of size and speed, has been one of the Tigers' hardest working skaters.
Other players to watch for the Tigers include sophomore defensemen Brad Schroeder and Jody Pederson, who at 6-3, have the bodies to match up physically with the Sioux. Also watch out for sophomore forward Cam MacIntyre, who although quiet last weekend, has been one of the team's best forwards all year.
Preview: North Dakota
A win this afternoon, however, will not come easily. North Dakota (26-10-4) is one of the nation's best teams. In perhaps the toughest conference in the country, the WCHA, the fighting Sioux were dominant. They did not however, win the WCHA tounrament - they lost to No. 6 Denver in the semifinals then crushed No. 2 Colorado College in the finals. In fact, the Sioux are only 2-2 in their last two games, which has many of the North Dakota faithful very nervous.
Equipped with one of the best goaltenders in the country - senior Jean-Philippe Lamoureux is the only goaltender on the finalist list for the Hobey Baker award, given to the nation's top player - the Sioux have been successful with a stifling, physical defense. In fact, North Dakota is so physical that they have been accused numerous times this season of dirty play. In a February game against Minnesota, a lot was called into question about the UND program following a game-ending brawl in which a Sioux apparently blindsided a Gophers forward.
The UND offense has also proved potent this season. Led by junior forward Ryan Duncan (last year's Hobey Baker winner) and junior forward TJ Oshie (a Hobey Baker finalist this season), who are currently 1 and 2 in WCHA active career points, the Sioux have proved that they can also blow out opponents.
Other players to watch include junior defenseman Taylor Chorney and senior defenseman Robbie Bina, who make up the Sioux's most aggressive and effective defensive pairings.
Welcome
Hi and welcome to Madison, Wisconsin's Kohl Center for this afternoon's NCAA Midwest Regional game between No. 3 North Dakota and No. 13 Princeton.
The Tigers are currently on a three game winning streak, dating back to their March 16th ECAC quarterfinal series finale with Yale. Last weekend, Princeton won the ECAC title - defeating Colgate in the semifinals and Harvard in the finals - to earn the program's second ever trip to the NCAA tournament.
Back in 1998, the Tigers lost to Michigan 2-1 in the NCAA's first round, and they look to improve on that finish this weekend.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Ceremony
Three Tigers - Lohry, Moore, and Kalmeba - make the All-Tournament team, and Kalemba wins Player of the Tournament.
Period 3 - Ends
The 2007-2008 Princeton Tigers are ECAC Champions for only the second time in program history. Congrats to the team, their families, and I hope you'll join me back here next weekend, for their NCAA Tournament game.
Period 3 - 1:38
Harvard pulls Richter in favor of an extra skater.
GOAL PRINCETON
Sophomore forward Mark Magnowski shoots one into the open net.
Period 3 - 3:06
GOAL PRINCETON
Brett Wilson, on the powerplay, passes up on a chance to feed Fedun and fires a wrist shot underneath Richter. Nice play by Cam MacIntyre behind the net on the assist. 3-1, this game is all but over folks.
Period 3 - 3:47
More of the same from Princeton. they're bending but not breaking.
Penalty on Harvard. Barring a Tigers goal, he'll get back on the ice with 1:47 left to play. The Crimson may pull their goalie before then, but if not, the Tigers are looking at 2 minutes to take off the clock.
Period 3 - 6:36
Princeton hanging in there. Up 2-1, but Harvard has really come on as of later. A few big saves from Kalemba, and the defense looks intent to just clear it out every time they get the chance.
Period 3 - 12:59
Penalty over. Princeton had a few opportunities, but was unable to net their third goal of the night. Harvard seems to have new intensity.
Period 3 - 16:58
Penalty on Harvard. This is a good opportunity for the Tigers to reopen a two goal lead.
Period 3 - 19:45
Right out fo the gate, Princeton's Talyor Fedun called for elbowing, and Harvard's power play converts.
GOAL HARVARD
On a slapshot from John Pelle the left side beat Kalemba. It will be interesting to see how the Tigers respond to this.
Period 2 - Notes
At this point, the Tigers simply need to hang on. Harvard is 0-9 this season when trailing after two periods. Princeton is possessing the puck and playing good defense. They are twenty minutes away from a berth in the NCAA Tournament.
Period 2 - Ends
Another good period for Princeton. Harvard will have a 40 second power play when we get back.
Period 2 - 0:31
Princeton gives it right back. Penalty on the Tigers.
#26 Matt Arhontas - 2:00 for Hooking
Period 2 - 2:10
Back and forth action here. Kalemba has made a few critical saves, but the Tigers defense, especially Schroeder and Godlewski, have been excellent.
Period 2 - 7:16
Back and forth play now. Both teams getting chances.
GOAL PRINCETON
Shot from the point by Landis Stankievech gets by Richter and dribbles in. Again bodies in front. Princeton can't let up now, they have them from the ropes.
Period 2 - 11:20
Harvard has dominated play recently, but Princeton has been great at cutting off angles and blocking shots. They had seven blocked shots in the first period - I miswrote when I said they had four - and have continued the trend in the second.
Period 2 - 16:09
The second period starts with a good chance for Harvard. Kalemba made the first save and the Crimson were unable to put away the rebound, which bounced high and away from the net.
A few more good chances for the Crimson. Harvard seems to have matched Princeton's intensity from the first period.
Period 1 - Notes
Good start. Princeton has certainly had the better of play. They are getting possession in the offensive third, the defenders are getting involved in the offense, and that is allowing Tiger forwards to establish themselves in front of the net. The goal, a wrist shot from Moore, was scored when the shot hit a skate in front, and the Tigers need to continue with the same. As for the physical aspect, the Tigers still have not flexed their muscles along the boards. Expect more of the same style play in the second half.
Another positive from Princeton was their defensive effort. Kalemba has been excellent, pushing his scoreless streak up over 200 minutes, but the defense has done a great job blocking shots and get inside the shooting lanes. Princeton has already blocked four shots.
In all, Princeton has so far accomplished two of the three "Keys to the Game" (numbers one and three) and have played an overall outstanding first period.
Period 1 - Ends
Powerplay gives little to the Tigers. This is best penalty kill in the ECAC. Period ends, good start.
Period 1 - 1:54
Big hit by Biega on Jubinville. Moore gets off a nice shot from between the circles and a penalty on Crimson. Good stuff from Princeton.
#14 Dave MacDonald - 2:00 for Contact to the Head/Roughing
Period 1 - 4:37
Good save by Kalemba in front. He was challenged with a shot, then held his ground as Harvard hacked away.
Period 1 - 5:43
Good chance for Princeton. Wilson skates in 1-on-1, but whiffs on the shot and Richter saves his second attempt. Princeton is keeping the pedal to the metal.
Another scuffle in front of the Harvard net, with Princeton forwards hacking away. The Tigers continue to get bodies in front of Richter and its paying off. Shots are getting deflected and its proving difficult for the Crimson goalie.
Harvard hits the post. Princeton the other way scores on a rebound, but the goal is called off due to an early whistle.
Period 1 - 10:27
Good kill for Princeton. A few nice saves by Kalemba, and the defense is getting low to block shots.
Period 1 - 12:29
Good look for Kushniruk in front. Nice blocker save by Richter. The Tigers are outplaying the Crimson right now. Penalty on Princeton.
#21 Mike Moore - 2:00 for Hooking
Period 1 - 13:54
Quick note for Tigers fans - Harvard has only one win all season when they do not score the first goal.
That is exactly what I spoke of in my preview. The Tigers got bodies in front of the net, and the screened Richter on the shot. Moore's wrister is his fifth of the season.
Period 1 - 17:45
And we're underway!
One small roster change for the Tigers, senior Erik Pridham is dressed for tonight's game. Pridham will be seeing his first action in the 2008 Playoffs. Kieth Shattenkirk, who recorded two assists in a solid game yesterday, is scratched in his place.
Princeton records the first shot on goal, and play yo-yos back and forth. While both of these teams' opponents yesterday - Cornell and Colgate - are known for slow meticulous play, this game expects to be more open.
Good start for the Tigers.
Starting Line-Ups
Princeton:
Kevin Kaiser - C - Sophomore
Brandan Kushniruk - RW - Senior
Kyle Hagel - LW - Senior
Matt Godlewski - D - Freshman
Brad Schroeder - D - Sophomore
Zane Kalemba - G - Sophomore
Harvard:
Doug Rogers - C - Senior
Matt McCollem - RW - Freshman
Mike Taylor - LW - Senior (captain)
Jack Christian - D - Junior
Brian McCafferty - D - Juniot
Kyle Richter - G - Sophomore
ECAC Finals vs. No. 16 Harvard
Hi and welcome to downtown
Yesterday afternoon, backed by lights-out goaltending from sophomore Zane Kalemba, the Tigers beat Colgate 3-0 in the first semifinal. Kalemba made 27 saves in the shutout – with a number of timely highlight reel stops – and the Tigers, who were unable to find a groove in the first two periods, capitalized on a pair of Raiders mistake to score twice in the third – Princeton added an empty-net tally in the final period. Tigers goals were scored by freshman forward Matt Arhontas – who has scored in each of the Tigers’ four playoff games this season – and Kevin Lohry, who netted both the game’s second goal and the empty netter. (A more comprehensive recap of the game can be found on The Daily Princetonian website, www.dailyprincetonian.com).
Last night, Harvard outlasted Cornell 3-1 to earn the right to play
The two teams met twice during the regular season with each team winning on its home ice. On January 5, in Hobey Baker Rink, the Tigers beat the Crimson 2-1 on goals from Arhontas and sophomore forward Kevin Kaiser. On February 15 in
The Crimson finished the regular season in third in the ECAC, thanks mostly to sophomore goaltender Kyle Richter. Richter led the ECAC in save percentage (.935) and goals-against-average (1.82) during the regular season, while recording 12 wins and earning the award for the ECAC’s Goaltender of the Year. Harvard surrender the least goals – 41 – in ECAC play, and are led by senior defenseman Dave McDonald, and forwards Doug Rogers (sophomore) and Mike Taylor (senior).
Tonight’s game features two of the least penalized teams in the ECAC – Princeton was 9th and Harvard 10th – and the Crimson boast the league’s best special teams average. Harvard killed 91.3% of the opposition’s penalties this season, which led the league, and are third in the league on the power play, converting 20%.
To win tonight, the Tigers are going to need to accomplish three things that they struggled with last night. The following are
1) The Tigers need to get traffic in front of the goalie.
2) The Tigers need to establish themselves physically. All season
3) The Tigers defense needs to avoid giving up the big play. While the blueliners were good yesterday, they gave Colgate a number of quality fast break opportunities. Kalemba was tremendous, stopping everything thrown at him, but the Tigers cannot expect that two games in a row. The
The consolation game just ended – Cornell defeated Colgate 4-1 – and we should be getting underway within the next half hour. Both team's are currently warming up - Princeton in their home whites and Harvard in their away Crimson - so stick with me, and I will bring you the action as it unfolds.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Game Over
Princeton wins it 3-0. A hard-fought battle on both ends, and though Princeton did not always look like the better team, they were better when it mattered (the 3rd period). Star of the game, without question, goes to Kalemba, who made saves 26, and a few highlight reel stops that were as timely as they were difficult. Princeton also got big games from Lohry and Wilson.
Congrats to all the players, their families, and I hope you will join me back here at 7pm tomorrow for the ECAC Finals.
Period 3 - 2:04
Penalty over, good kill for the Tigers. Not much time left, Dekanich has to be leaving soon.
Period 3 - 4:16
Penalty on Princeton.
#21 Mike Moore - 2:00 for interference - 15:34
Big moment here for Princeton. A goal on this power play would let Colgate back into the game. The Tigers have outplayed the Raiders thus far in the third, and a kill here would all but ice the game.
Period 3 - 5:00
Good defensive effort by Princeton, clearing pucks and backchecking.
Another BIG save from Kalemba turns into a GOAL FOR PRINCETON.
Kevin Lohry, the Tigers best player today, gets a nice pass from Shattenkirk and Stankievech . Lohry got a breakaway and buried the puck inside the left post on a backhand.
Period 3 - 6:59
Princeton seems to have newfound energy following the goal and Colgate looks to be reeling for the first time all afternoon. Arhontas, the smallest player on the Princeton squad - listed at 5'7", 145 - has come up huge once again.
Period 3 - 11:56
GOAL PRINCETON
Mr. Hot Hand, freshman Matt Arhontas picks up the loose puck in the offensive third, and beat Dekanich low. Defensive lapse by Colgate, but the Tigers were there to jump on it.
That is his fourth goal in as many playoff games this year.
Period 3 - 13:28
The game is opening up right now, with good chances arising for both teams. Colgate seems to have decided, as a team, to start firing from farther away. They have had a number of shot in this period sail wide from the top of the circles. If they were waiting until great scoring opportunities to shoot earlier in the game, they no longer care about getting in close.
Period 3 - 16:02
HUGE save from Kalemba. A 2-on-1 for Colgate, and the cross ice pass found winger Ethan Cox. But Kalemba, sliding to his right, was able to cover enough ground to deflect it wide. That is a game-changing save right there.
Period 2 - Notes
A little better period for the Tigers. Still no traffic in front of the net, however, which is going to continue to be a problem unless Princeton can gain some sustained offensive production. The Tigers' best chace of the night came on a power play shot from defenseman Kevin Crane when Brett Wilson was screening Dekanich in front. Kevin Kasier had an open shot in the middle of the second peroid that was gloved by Dekanich as if it were nothing. The Tigers need to screen his lanes to put one past him.
The Tigers also seem to be having the most success when their defensemen get involved in the offensive play. This means that the team's two-way defenders, wuch as Moore, Godlewski and Fedun, are going to need to find a way to get involved in the offensive third.
Overall, however, a good period for the Tigers. Shots were 7-6 in the period, and the majority of play was in the Colgate defensive third.
Three Keys to the Third:
1) Getting bodies between Dekanich and the puck.
2) Getting defensemen involved in the offense.
3) Avoiding stupid penalties - The refs have shown so far that they will call even the small stuff - and this game looks as though one goal will decide it - so staying out of the box will be crucial.
Period 2 - Ends
Uneventful second period. The Tigers got some offense in the final two minutes - a nice opportunity for Jubinville set up by MacIntyre - and the two teams head to the dressing room scoreless.
Period 2 - 2:44
Princeton finally tests Dekanich, who makes a nice glove save on an uncontested shot from sophomore forward Kevin Kaiser.
Period 2 - 5:22
The Princeton Men's Lacrosse team just took their seats in the Princeton section. Not much happening on the ice, both teams seem to have settled in.
Period 2 - 8:51
Nice block and clear by freshman defenseman Matt Godlewski and another good block by freshman defenseman Taylor Fedun. The Tigers defense looked good, disciplined on the kill. Now hopefully they can build on this.
Period 2 - 11:03
Penalty on Princeton.
#21 Mike Moore - 2:00 for hitting from behind - 8:57
Iffy call, but it will test the Tigers defensively and maybe help get some momentum following a kill.
Period 2 - 13:02
Tigers get a few good shots on the power play - and give up a good chance as well - but still seem a little lost in the offensive third. Their best opportunity of the game came on a shot from the point by defenseman Kevin Crane, with Wilson screening in front. The Tigers need to get more possession and action in front of the net.
Period 2 - 15:58
Period 2 - 16:23
Princeton powerplay ends. Right out of the box, McIntyre possesses the puck and sets up Ethan Cox for a wide-open shot, but Kalemba robs him with a glove save. Colgate still getting the better of play.
Period 2 - 19:42
Colgate forward Daivd McIntyre called for cross checking
#26 David McIntyre 2:00 for cross checking - 0:18
This means that the Tigers will have a powerplay for 40 seconds in about a minute.
Period 1 - Notes
A tough first period for the Tigers. Princeton started the game well, but around the 15:00 mark, Colgate took over completely. The period's five best socring opportunities belonged to the Raiders including an open net for their star Tyler Burton, who could only muster a dribbler into the outstretched glove of Tigers goalie Zane Kalemba. Kalemba made 13 saves in the period, including a beautifully positioned save on the doorstep and a nice pad save on a breakaway.
As for the rest of the Tigers, they need to come out with some fire in the second period and get back to the hard-nosed Princeton style of play. The Tigers love to throw the puck at the net, and with traffic in front of the net, try to bang it in - Coach Gadowsky told me yesterday that the only way to score on Dekanich was to get traffic in front because "if he can he, he will stop it" - but thus far they are simply throwing it at the net without men in front. Dekanich has recorded five saves, but only one was on a legitimately tough shot. For the Tigers to be successful in the second period they need to establish some possession - of which they had none in the first frame - and get bodies in front of the net. If they can do that, and re-establish their physical presence, this game is very winnable.
So far the Tigers best player, aside from Kalemba, has been freshman forward Kevin Lohry. Lohry has played with the intensity that this game deserves, and has single-handedly created the Tigers' two best opportunities.
We're 2:56 from the start of the second period, so don't go too far.
Period 1 - Ends
Princeton forward Brett Wilson called for interference in the offensive zone. A bad penalty to take, for it not only kills the Princeton power play, but gives Colgate a short powerplay in the second.
#16 Brett Wilson 2:00 for Interference - 19:36
Period 1 ends with the score 0-0.
Period 1 - 1:24
The Raiders have taken over physically as well. MacIntyre was just brought to the ice on a big hit, but a nice move from Jubinville in the offensive zone results in a tripping call on Colgate.
#6 Wade Poplawki - 2:00 for tripping at 18:36
Period 1 - 3:36
Another good opportunity for Colgate, but solid positioning from Kalemba results in a save. With 10 saves so far, the Tigers goaltender is having a very good opening period.
Period 1 - 6:20
The Tigers line of junior Lee Jubinville (the Ivy League playr of the year), Brett Wilson and Mike Kramer has had a strong start to the game.
Beuatiful opportunity for Colgate. Puck gets passed Kalemba and rolls right to a Raider forward, who had the entire net in front of him. The Colgate player however, flubbed the shot, which rolled directly into the outstretched glove of Kalemba. Nice play by Kalemba, but certainly a should-be-goal for Colgate.
Period 1 - 7:46
McIntyre makes a nice play int he Princeton zone, but is unable to get off a clean shot. The Raiders are outplaying the Tigers now, especially the line of Day, McIntyre and Riley, who seem faster to every puck. Princeton's start was not sluggish, but the Tigers seem a little slower right now. Earlier in the season the Tigers had trouble playing 100% from the drop of the first puck, and that seems to be the case right now.
Period 1 - 11:05
Princeton getting some sustained pressure now. Shot from Godlewski blocked in front. The Tigers are also establishing themselves physically, which is critical to 'Princeton Hockey' - the Tigers' style of hard work, backchecking, blocking shots and physically grinding on opponents...
Great moves by Colgate's Day, but a save on the doorstep by Kalemba. That was this game's first great chance. The Tigers respond immediately, however, and a shot by freshman Kevin Lohry is sticked aside by Dekanich.
HUGE pad save by Kelmba on Burton, who was streaking in all alone. Zane made the first save, then held his position to save the rebound.
Period 1 - 15:31
Great shift by Schroeder, Brett Wilson and Mike Kramer. Tigers get a few opportunities, but are unable to finish. Big hit from Mike Moore.
Period 1 - 18:27
And we're under way!
Early action in both ends. Colgate records the first shot - sticked aside by Zane Kalemba. Fans are still finding their seats, but both teams look amped to be here.
Starting Line-Ups
Princeton:
Kevin Kaiser - C - Sophomore
Brandan Kushniruk- RW - Junior
Kyle Hagel - LW - Senior
Matt Godlewski - D - Freshman
Brad Schroeder - D - Sophomore
Zan Kalemba - G - Sophomore
Colgate:
Tom Riley - C - Junior
David McIntyre - LW - Sophomore
Brian Day - RW - Freshman
Jason Fredricks - D - Junior
Matt Torti- D - Senior
Mark Dekanich - G - Senior
ECAC Semifinals Princeton vs. Colgate
Hi and welcome the Times Union Center, for this afternoon's 3pm contest between the No. 15 Princeton Tigers and Colgate Raiders.
Last weekend, in Princeton's first-ever home playoff series, the Tigers knocked off Yale in three games (4-0, 3-4, 3-0) to seal their birth in this weekend's tournament. Princeton recieved stellar play from sophomore goalie Zane Kalemba - whose 2 shutouts were the only two playoff shutouts in Princeton history - as well as freshman forward Matt Arhontas and sophomore forward Cam MacIntyre, each of whom found the net three times against the Bulldogs.
This is the final season for five Princeton seniors - Erik Pridham, Mike Moore, Landis Stankievech, Kyle Hagel and Kieth Shattenkirk - all of whom are critical to the team's success. Stankievech, an ECAC student-athlete award finalist, is one of the best defensive forwards in the league, and Hagel adds a physical presence that Princeton relies on heavily. And it is impossible to speak of this year's team, without mentioning Moore. A memeber of the ECAC's 1st Team and an All-American Candidate, Moore entered this season as the team's only blueliner with more than a year of experience. The Tigers' leader on and off the ice, Moore has headlined one of the ECAC's best - and youngest - defenses, while leading all ECAC defenders in points.
Colgate enters today's game with a lot of momentum, having knocked off No. 7 Clarkson, the ECAC's best team, in three games last weekend. Colgate lost the first game 1-0, but bounced back with 4-3 and 3-2 (2OT) wins to advance to today's game. The Raiders are anchored by senior goaltender Mark Dekanich - who Princeton coach Guy Gadowsky called "the best goalie in the ECAC this season" - and a trio of strong fowards, Jesse Winchester, David McIntyre and Tyler Burton, who has the skill to change the game at any moment.
The Tigers and Raiders met twice during the regualr season, with Princeton winning 2-0 on the road, and 7-2 at home last month.
We are about 5 minutes from the drop of the first puck, so stick with me, I'll be bringing you all the action as it plays out.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
FINAL
The Princeton Women's swimming and diving team took their third championship in a row, and 18th overall tonight, as they dominated a meet from beginning to end.
3 Meter Diving
Katie had a great set of dives today, with a great range of diversity and difficulty that earned her 2nd place in the 3-meter event. Despite a push in the last two dives, it wasn't enough to get past Columbia's Shannon Hosey , who had dives of a lifetime tonight. Despite whatever adversities she might have had this year, Katie showed she is still one of the top competitors in this league, finishing like a champion.
200 Fly
With a new pool record and meet record, Monika Friedman outdid herself finishing in 1:58.69. The first place finish makes her the fourth Tiger to win two individual championships this weekend.
200 Breaststroke
It was a fast final heat, with a 2:14.69 winning it, the Tigers pulled ahead of the field, finishing 2nd and 4th. Lisa Hamming lead Princeton, finishing with a time of 2.15.38, followed by Courtney's time of 2:16.63.
100 Free
What a race. There's nothing like the waves created in a 100 free. Especially when they run orange and black. Senior Brett Shiflett was on again, finishing in first with a time of 49.82. It was the only individual event in which she didn't qualify for NCAA's. Junior Justina DiFazio had another explosive swim, picking it up in the last 30 meters, but was ultimately out-touched by .04 seconds.
200 Back
Julie Kochman and Meredith Monroe gave it their all and it showed. They came second and third in the 200 back, finishing 2:00.68 and 1:59.09 respectively. Penn's Sara Coenen had a huge push in the last 40 meters, coming from behind to take first with a time of 1:58.07.
1650 Free
There aren't too many words to describe the achievements of Alicia Aemisegger, but sometimes just putting a time will do.
Finals DAY 3
It was an amazing morning for the Princeton Tigers, as they qualified another to NCAA's. Junior Monika Friedman qualified with a 1:58.91, making her the fifth Princeton swimmer to qualify to nationals. Additionally, Alicia swam the 200 time trial, in an effort to qualify the 800 free relay to NC's, and her brilliant race should be just enough to get the relay to Ohio.
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