Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Hockey East Power Rankings January edition
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
1. Maine (14-8-3, 11-7-2)
The Black Bears are one of the hottest teams in the nation right now. They are 12-2-1 in their last 15 games and are coming off back-to-back sweeps against Boston College and Boston University. Maine’s offense is tough to beat as their top line is made up of Hockey East’s three leading scorers, and goaltender Dan Sullivan proved against BU that he can be one of the league’s top netminders.
2. Boston University (15-8-1, 12-6-1)
The Terriers suffered two losses on the ice and two losses off the ice this past weekend. Freshman defenseman Alexx Privitera will miss significant time with a broken wrist while junior defenseman Max Nicastro has a less serious but still significant shoulder injury. Despite the losses, BU remains at the top of the rankings by virtue of its position in the league standings and its showing in the losses to Maine. BU played the Black Bears close in both games despite being undermanned defensively.
3. Boston College (16-10-1, 12-7-1)
The Eagles look better in the standings by virtue of a weekend sweep over UNH. Parker Milner earned the start in net in both wins, but it remains to be seen if he will be BC’s starting goaltender down the stretch. Both of its wins against UNH were also by the tightest of margins. On Friday night, they came from behind and scored the game-winner with 51 seconds remaining in regulation. On Saturday, the Eagles allowed the Wildcats to tie it up late before BC won it in overtime.
1. Maine (14-8-3, 11-7-2)
The Black Bears are one of the hottest teams in the nation right now. They are 12-2-1 in their last 15 games and are coming off back-to-back sweeps against Boston College and Boston University. Maine’s offense is tough to beat as their top line is made up of Hockey East’s three leading scorers, and goaltender Dan Sullivan proved against BU that he can be one of the league’s top netminders.
2. Boston University (15-8-1, 12-6-1)
The Terriers suffered two losses on the ice and two losses off the ice this past weekend. Freshman defenseman Alexx Privitera will miss significant time with a broken wrist while junior defenseman Max Nicastro has a less serious but still significant shoulder injury. Despite the losses, BU remains at the top of the rankings by virtue of its position in the league standings and its showing in the losses to Maine. BU played the Black Bears close in both games despite being undermanned defensively.
3. Boston College (16-10-1, 12-7-1)
The Eagles look better in the standings by virtue of a weekend sweep over UNH. Parker Milner earned the start in net in both wins, but it remains to be seen if he will be BC’s starting goaltender down the stretch. Both of its wins against UNH were also by the tightest of margins. On Friday night, they came from behind and scored the game-winner with 51 seconds remaining in regulation. On Saturday, the Eagles allowed the Wildcats to tie it up late before BC won it in overtime.
Monday, January 30, 2012
From the Freep: Men’s hockey loses two to injuries
By Tim Healey/DFP Staff
The No. 2 Boston University men’s hockey team, the winner of 12 of its last 14 games entering the weekend, has been bitten by a bug – the injury bug.
The Terriers (15-8-1, 12-6-1 Hockey East) lost a pair of defensemen, freshman Alexx Privitera and junior Max Nicastro, to injuries in Friday night’s 4-2 loss to No. 20 University of Maine. These two developments had deep impact on Saturday’s 3-1 Black Bear (14-8-3, 11-7-2 Hockey East) win – and potentially the rest of the regular season.
The big blow – and BU’s first severe in-season injury of the year – was Privitera’s broken wrist. It came in the first period of Friday’s game when Black Bear captain Will O’Neill laid Privitera out in the slot in BU’s defensive end. The freshman’s right wrist bent backwards on the play, and tests later confirmed it was broken.
BU coach Jack Parker said Saturday Privitera is expected to return in four weeks.
“Maybe,” Parker said, knocking on a plastic table. “Hopefully.”
For more, visit dailyfreepress.com.
From the FreeP: BU falters against Black Bears
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
In the rubber game of the season series between the No. 2 Boston University men’s hockey team and No. 20 Maine, the Black Bears edged the Terriers, 3-1, and completed a weekend sweep. Maine is the first team this season to win a season series against BU.
Maine goaltender Dan Sullivan turned in another strong performance for the Black Bears (14-8-3, 11-7-2 Hockey East), totaling 38 saves on Saturday to bring his weekend total to 66 stops on 69 shots. BU senior goaltender Kieran Millan recorded 34 saves for the Terriers (15-8-1, 12-6-1 Hockey East) on Saturday in the losing effort.
“[Friday night], it’s 3-2 and an empty-netter makes it 4-2,” said BU coach Jack Parker. “Tonight, an empty-netter makes it 3-1. Sounds like the same thing, but it was like night and day. I was extremely happy with how hard we played.
For more, visit dailyfreepress.com.
In the rubber game of the season series between the No. 2 Boston University men’s hockey team and No. 20 Maine, the Black Bears edged the Terriers, 3-1, and completed a weekend sweep. Maine is the first team this season to win a season series against BU.
Maine goaltender Dan Sullivan turned in another strong performance for the Black Bears (14-8-3, 11-7-2 Hockey East), totaling 38 saves on Saturday to bring his weekend total to 66 stops on 69 shots. BU senior goaltender Kieran Millan recorded 34 saves for the Terriers (15-8-1, 12-6-1 Hockey East) on Saturday in the losing effort.
“[Friday night], it’s 3-2 and an empty-netter makes it 4-2,” said BU coach Jack Parker. “Tonight, an empty-netter makes it 3-1. Sounds like the same thing, but it was like night and day. I was extremely happy with how hard we played.
For more, visit dailyfreepress.com.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
The good and the bad: Maine beats BU 3-1
By Annie Maroon/DFP Staff
The No. 2 Boston University men’s hockey team couldn’t pull out the season series win against the University of Maine on Saturday, losing 3-1. Here’s a look at what went right and what went wrong for the Terriers:
The No. 2 Boston University men’s hockey team couldn’t pull out the season series win against the University of Maine on Saturday, losing 3-1. Here’s a look at what went right and what went wrong for the Terriers:
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Chris Connolly: 'Officials made some pretty game-changing decisions'
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
Following an empty-net goal with 4.6 seconds remaining in No. 2 Boston University's 3-1 loss to No. 20 University of Maine, BU coach Jack Parker poured a tangent of frustration into a referee's ear. His screaming fit earned him an ejection, and according to senior captain Chris Connolly, the ejection was price worth paying considering the way the officials called the game.
The Terriers seemed frustrated by multiple calls (and non-calls) throughout both Friday and Saturday's game. On Friday, Parker wanted a five-minute major called on a hit that left freshman defenseman Alexx Privitera writhing on the ice. Privitera will miss the next four weeks of play with a broken wrist as the result of the hit. Parker was also upset later in Friday's game by a hooking call against Wade Megan where Megan never seemed to hook the opposing player. After that game, Parker refused to fully comment on the officiating, simply saying, "the only thing that counts is what the referee thinks."
Saturday's game featured a different officiating corps, but it drew the same frustration from the Terriers.
Following an empty-net goal with 4.6 seconds remaining in No. 2 Boston University's 3-1 loss to No. 20 University of Maine, BU coach Jack Parker poured a tangent of frustration into a referee's ear. His screaming fit earned him an ejection, and according to senior captain Chris Connolly, the ejection was price worth paying considering the way the officials called the game.
The Terriers seemed frustrated by multiple calls (and non-calls) throughout both Friday and Saturday's game. On Friday, Parker wanted a five-minute major called on a hit that left freshman defenseman Alexx Privitera writhing on the ice. Privitera will miss the next four weeks of play with a broken wrist as the result of the hit. Parker was also upset later in Friday's game by a hooking call against Wade Megan where Megan never seemed to hook the opposing player. After that game, Parker refused to fully comment on the officiating, simply saying, "the only thing that counts is what the referee thinks."
Saturday's game featured a different officiating corps, but it drew the same frustration from the Terriers.
Maine sweeps BU, captures season series
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
In the rubber game of the season series between No. 2 Boston University and No. 20 Maine, the Black Bears edged the Terriers, 3-1, and completed a weekend sweep.
Maine goaltender Dan Sullivan turned in another strong performance for the Black Bears, totaling 38 saves.
The Terriers were looking to stay more disciplined Saturday night, but they failed in that endeavor in the first period. BU took four penalties in the frame and managed to hold Maine off for most of the four power-play chances. Maine freshman John Parker negated BU’s effort, however, when he jumped on a loose puck out to Millan’s left and lifted it over Millan’s shoulder to give the Black Bears a 1-0 lead with 6.9 seconds left in the frame.
BU evened the score with a power-play goal 2:41 into the second. After Maine captain Brian Flynn was sent to the box for a trip, birthday boy Garrett Noonan tipped a shot off Adam Clendening’s stick past Sullivan for the score.
Maine regained the lead slightly over three minutes later, when junior Nick Pryor blasted a slap shot from the point off the post and in to give the Black Bears a 2-1 lead. The goal was the first of Pryor’s career, making him the 17th player to score his first collegiate goal against the Terriers this season.
Other than Pryor’s goal, however, BU controlled play in the second period. They entered the frame facing a 21-8 shot deficit but proceeded to out-shoot the Black Bears 19-6 in the period to even the shot total by the end of the period.
The Terriers continued to pepper the Maine net with shots from all angles in the third period, but Sullivan seemed to be prepared for every attempt and barely gave up any rebounds.
BU had a golden chance at the end of the third period when, with Maine on the power play, Flynn took a high sticking penalty. Senior captain Chris Connolly held onto the puck on the delayed call long enough to run down the Maine power play to 29 seconds, giving the Terriers a longer power play after the end of 4-on-4 play. BU could not get set up until the end of the power play, however, and failed to capitalize on the opportunity.
Matt Mangene clinched the win with an empty-net goal with 4.6 seconds left in the game.
BU coach Jack Parker was ejected from the game for yelling at the referees following the empty-net tally.
In the rubber game of the season series between No. 2 Boston University and No. 20 Maine, the Black Bears edged the Terriers, 3-1, and completed a weekend sweep.
Maine goaltender Dan Sullivan turned in another strong performance for the Black Bears, totaling 38 saves.
The Terriers were looking to stay more disciplined Saturday night, but they failed in that endeavor in the first period. BU took four penalties in the frame and managed to hold Maine off for most of the four power-play chances. Maine freshman John Parker negated BU’s effort, however, when he jumped on a loose puck out to Millan’s left and lifted it over Millan’s shoulder to give the Black Bears a 1-0 lead with 6.9 seconds left in the frame.
BU evened the score with a power-play goal 2:41 into the second. After Maine captain Brian Flynn was sent to the box for a trip, birthday boy Garrett Noonan tipped a shot off Adam Clendening’s stick past Sullivan for the score.
Maine regained the lead slightly over three minutes later, when junior Nick Pryor blasted a slap shot from the point off the post and in to give the Black Bears a 2-1 lead. The goal was the first of Pryor’s career, making him the 17th player to score his first collegiate goal against the Terriers this season.
Other than Pryor’s goal, however, BU controlled play in the second period. They entered the frame facing a 21-8 shot deficit but proceeded to out-shoot the Black Bears 19-6 in the period to even the shot total by the end of the period.
The Terriers continued to pepper the Maine net with shots from all angles in the third period, but Sullivan seemed to be prepared for every attempt and barely gave up any rebounds.
BU had a golden chance at the end of the third period when, with Maine on the power play, Flynn took a high sticking penalty. Senior captain Chris Connolly held onto the puck on the delayed call long enough to run down the Maine power play to 29 seconds, giving the Terriers a longer power play after the end of 4-on-4 play. BU could not get set up until the end of the power play, however, and failed to capitalize on the opportunity.
Matt Mangene clinched the win with an empty-net goal with 4.6 seconds left in the game.
BU coach Jack Parker was ejected from the game for yelling at the referees following the empty-net tally.
Penalties key for both teams in 4-2 BU loss
By Annie Maroon/DFP Staff
When the two most penalized teams in the country meet, it’s not hard to predict that special teams will play a role in the game. Although the Boston University and the University of Maine men’s hockey teams – averaging 20.35 and 18.54 minutes per game in the box, respectively – kept the total number of infractions in Friday’s game to just seven, it was a pair of successful power plays that gave Maine the victory.
“I thought we did a good job killing their penalties and yet they got two power-play goals,” Parker said. “One was a bad turnover by us – 17 seconds to go and we get the puck on our own stick and all we’ve got to do is throw it out, we try to make a play instead and they turn around and score. Then we tipped the last shot on the power play [in the third period] and it still went in.”
On the first play Parker referenced, a hooking call on freshman forward Evan Rodrigues was about to expire early in the second period. Junior defenseman Max Nicastro stole the puck away from a Maine forward, but instead of clearing it, he tried to carry it out of the zone himself and ended up turning it over to Maine forward Adam Shemansky, who scored to tie the game at 1.
When the two most penalized teams in the country meet, it’s not hard to predict that special teams will play a role in the game. Although the Boston University and the University of Maine men’s hockey teams – averaging 20.35 and 18.54 minutes per game in the box, respectively – kept the total number of infractions in Friday’s game to just seven, it was a pair of successful power plays that gave Maine the victory.
“I thought we did a good job killing their penalties and yet they got two power-play goals,” Parker said. “One was a bad turnover by us – 17 seconds to go and we get the puck on our own stick and all we’ve got to do is throw it out, we try to make a play instead and they turn around and score. Then we tipped the last shot on the power play [in the third period] and it still went in.”
On the first play Parker referenced, a hooking call on freshman forward Evan Rodrigues was about to expire early in the second period. Junior defenseman Max Nicastro stole the puck away from a Maine forward, but instead of clearing it, he tried to carry it out of the zone himself and ended up turning it over to Maine forward Adam Shemansky, who scored to tie the game at 1.
The good, the bad and the bizarre: Maine tops BU, 4-2
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
The No. 2 Boston University men's hockey team saw its five-game winning streak come to an end on Friday night when it lost, 4-2, to No. 20 University of Maine. Here's a look at what went wrong and some of what went right for the Terriers Friday night.
The Bad:
Mentality
The Terriers simply did not have their heads in the game on Friday, and it ultimately cost them two points. There seemed to be no zip to the Terriers' step. They were not hitting as hard as they typically do, not racing to pucks as hard as they had been, and not making sound decisions with and without the puck. On the Black Bears' first goal, junior defenseman Max Nicastro could have easily ended any Maine bid by chipping the puck past his man, but instead he tried to carry it up the ice, leading to the turnover that ended up in the back of the BU net. The choice to chip or carry seems like a small detail in a game, but it is that type of detail that can determine a game's outcome.
The No. 2 Boston University men's hockey team saw its five-game winning streak come to an end on Friday night when it lost, 4-2, to No. 20 University of Maine. Here's a look at what went wrong and some of what went right for the Terriers Friday night.
The Bad:
Mentality
The Terriers simply did not have their heads in the game on Friday, and it ultimately cost them two points. There seemed to be no zip to the Terriers' step. They were not hitting as hard as they typically do, not racing to pucks as hard as they had been, and not making sound decisions with and without the puck. On the Black Bears' first goal, junior defenseman Max Nicastro could have easily ended any Maine bid by chipping the puck past his man, but instead he tried to carry it up the ice, leading to the turnover that ended up in the back of the BU net. The choice to chip or carry seems like a small detail in a game, but it is that type of detail that can determine a game's outcome.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Lights go out on Terriers' win streak
By Tim Healey/DFP Staff
In the first of two matchups this weekend between the No. 2 Boston University men’s hockey team and No. 20 University of Maine, it got a bit darker than normal – literally during the second period at Agganis Arena and figuratively in terms of the host team’s win streak.
Following a 21-minute delay in the second period due to several Agganis Arena lights losing power, the Black Bears (13-8-3, 10-7-2 Hockey East) ended up with a 4-2 win, their third straight, ending what was a five-game win streak for the Terriers (15-7-1, 12-5-1 Hockey East).
The first period was a quick one, as the two most highly penalized teams in Hockey East almost managed to stay out of the box for the entire period. That streak ended at 16:52 into the frame when Maine defenseman Will O’Neill, one of two Black Bear captains, put a late hit on freshman defenseman Alexx Privitera, who injured his wrist on the play.
Privitera stayed on the ice while a team trainer tended to him, and soon skated off under his on power, albeit still holding his right wrist. He did not return to the game, and BU coach Jack Parker said he “may have a broken wrist."
In the first of two matchups this weekend between the No. 2 Boston University men’s hockey team and No. 20 University of Maine, it got a bit darker than normal – literally during the second period at Agganis Arena and figuratively in terms of the host team’s win streak.
Following a 21-minute delay in the second period due to several Agganis Arena lights losing power, the Black Bears (13-8-3, 10-7-2 Hockey East) ended up with a 4-2 win, their third straight, ending what was a five-game win streak for the Terriers (15-7-1, 12-5-1 Hockey East).
The first period was a quick one, as the two most highly penalized teams in Hockey East almost managed to stay out of the box for the entire period. That streak ended at 16:52 into the frame when Maine defenseman Will O’Neill, one of two Black Bear captains, put a late hit on freshman defenseman Alexx Privitera, who injured his wrist on the play.
Privitera stayed on the ice while a team trainer tended to him, and soon skated off under his on power, albeit still holding his right wrist. He did not return to the game, and BU coach Jack Parker said he “may have a broken wrist."
Terriers look to take season series from Maine
By Annie Maroon/DFP Staff
While the No. 2 Boston University men’s hockey team was enjoying the best two games of its season so far against Providence College last weekend, the No. 20 University of Maine put on a display of its own with two dramatic victories over No. 7 Boston College. The Terriers and Black Bears will meet on Friday as the two hottest teams in Hockey East, if not in the nation.
“We’ve both been playing very well lately, so we’ve got to prepare for what’s making them good,” BU head coach Jack Parker said. “That’s their power play, their transition game, [when they’re] down low with possession. Those are the things make them a terrific college hockey team, and we have to be real good in those areas.”
Last Friday, Maine (12-8-3, 9-7-2 Hockey East) knocked off BC in overtime, 4-3, then followed up on Saturday with a 7-4 win in which they scored three goals in the last five minutes of regulation. Junior forward Matt Mangene, who scored the game-winner on Friday, recorded his first collegiate hat trick on Saturday.
While the No. 2 Boston University men’s hockey team was enjoying the best two games of its season so far against Providence College last weekend, the No. 20 University of Maine put on a display of its own with two dramatic victories over No. 7 Boston College. The Terriers and Black Bears will meet on Friday as the two hottest teams in Hockey East, if not in the nation.
“We’ve both been playing very well lately, so we’ve got to prepare for what’s making them good,” BU head coach Jack Parker said. “That’s their power play, their transition game, [when they’re] down low with possession. Those are the things make them a terrific college hockey team, and we have to be real good in those areas.”
Last Friday, Maine (12-8-3, 9-7-2 Hockey East) knocked off BC in overtime, 4-3, then followed up on Saturday with a 7-4 win in which they scored three goals in the last five minutes of regulation. Junior forward Matt Mangene, who scored the game-winner on Friday, recorded his first collegiate hat trick on Saturday.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Beanpot teams take stand to end violence against women
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
The Beanpot always brings excitement to the city of Boston, and this year it will bring a change to teams’ helmets as well. Boston College, Boston University, Harvard University and Northeastern University will all wear a white ribbon logo on their helmets during their Beanpot games this year to raise awareness for violence against women.
The logo is part of a campaign attempting to prevent violence against women. On Monday, the captains and coaches of the Beanpot teams went to the Massachusetts State House to take part in White Ribbon Day in connection with the campaign. The event asks boys and men to take the White Ribbon Pledge in which they commit themselves to preventing domestic violence and sexual assault.
“I think it’s a good cause and it’s an event in Boston that’s kind of on a national stage,” said BU senior captain Chris Connolly. “I don’t think there’s a better time when you can get it advertised. There are so many colleges in Boston that these kind of things could tend to happen. I think that’s the age demographic where you see it the most.”
The Terriers have very personal experience in dealing with violence against women.
The Beanpot always brings excitement to the city of Boston, and this year it will bring a change to teams’ helmets as well. Boston College, Boston University, Harvard University and Northeastern University will all wear a white ribbon logo on their helmets during their Beanpot games this year to raise awareness for violence against women.
The logo is part of a campaign attempting to prevent violence against women. On Monday, the captains and coaches of the Beanpot teams went to the Massachusetts State House to take part in White Ribbon Day in connection with the campaign. The event asks boys and men to take the White Ribbon Pledge in which they commit themselves to preventing domestic violence and sexual assault.
“I think it’s a good cause and it’s an event in Boston that’s kind of on a national stage,” said BU senior captain Chris Connolly. “I don’t think there’s a better time when you can get it advertised. There are so many colleges in Boston that these kind of things could tend to happen. I think that’s the age demographic where you see it the most.”
The Terriers have very personal experience in dealing with violence against women.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
From the FreeP: Fan support propels men’s hockey (Notebook)
By Tim Healey/DFP Staff
While the men’s hockey team’s fan base has traditionally been strong, recently there has been a consistent and growing contingent of fans attending games, both home and away.
The group of student fans, which calls itself “The Dog Pound” and has taken to social media to rally the troops, has not gone unnoticed by the team. Last week, BU coach Jack Parker sent the fan group a thank you note for its attendance at games at Northeastern University on Jan. 13 and Harvard University on Jan. 14.
“I just wanted to thank you and let you know how much our team appreciated your support at our games at Northeastern and Harvard,” Parker wrote in a letter addressed to Terrier Nation. “After both games, I heard several of our players talk about how great the fan support was and how it helped us pick up those key wins.”
For more, visit dailyfreepress.com.
While the men’s hockey team’s fan base has traditionally been strong, recently there has been a consistent and growing contingent of fans attending games, both home and away.
The group of student fans, which calls itself “The Dog Pound” and has taken to social media to rally the troops, has not gone unnoticed by the team. Last week, BU coach Jack Parker sent the fan group a thank you note for its attendance at games at Northeastern University on Jan. 13 and Harvard University on Jan. 14.
“I just wanted to thank you and let you know how much our team appreciated your support at our games at Northeastern and Harvard,” Parker wrote in a letter addressed to Terrier Nation. “After both games, I heard several of our players talk about how great the fan support was and how it helped us pick up those key wins.”
For more, visit dailyfreepress.com.
Monday, January 23, 2012
From the Freep: BU demoralizes No. 9 penalty kill in nation
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – It’s not often that a college hockey team will score six power-play goals in one game, and even less common that it happens against a team with one of the top 10 penalty killing units in the nation.
The No. 2/3 Boston University men’s hockey team defied that logic when they touched up a Providence College penalty kill – ranked ninth in the country entering the weekend – for eight power-play goals in 15 chances. By the time BU (15-6-1, 12-4-1 Hockey East) was finished with the Friars (9-11-2, 7-7-1 Hockey East), the Providence penalty kill fell all the way to 32nd in the national rankings.
The Terriers were especially masterful with the man-advantage in Saturday night’s 8-0 BU win at Schneider Arena. BU scored six of its eight goals on the power play, marking the first time a Terrier team potted six power-play goals in one game since accomplishing the feat March 9, 1996 against the University of Massachusetts in the Hockey East quarterfinals.
BU scored more power-play goals this weekend than Dartmouth (seven power-play goals) has scored all season. BU also equaled University of Alabama-Huntsville and Sacred Heart University’s season total for power-play goals. For local comparison, Northeastern University has scored just nine power-play goals this season.
Read more at dailyfreepress.com.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – It’s not often that a college hockey team will score six power-play goals in one game, and even less common that it happens against a team with one of the top 10 penalty killing units in the nation.
The No. 2/3 Boston University men’s hockey team defied that logic when they touched up a Providence College penalty kill – ranked ninth in the country entering the weekend – for eight power-play goals in 15 chances. By the time BU (15-6-1, 12-4-1 Hockey East) was finished with the Friars (9-11-2, 7-7-1 Hockey East), the Providence penalty kill fell all the way to 32nd in the national rankings.
The Terriers were especially masterful with the man-advantage in Saturday night’s 8-0 BU win at Schneider Arena. BU scored six of its eight goals on the power play, marking the first time a Terrier team potted six power-play goals in one game since accomplishing the feat March 9, 1996 against the University of Massachusetts in the Hockey East quarterfinals.
BU scored more power-play goals this weekend than Dartmouth (seven power-play goals) has scored all season. BU also equaled University of Alabama-Huntsville and Sacred Heart University’s season total for power-play goals. For local comparison, Northeastern University has scored just nine power-play goals this season.
Read more at dailyfreepress.com.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Terriers bury Providence, 8-0
By Annie Maroon/DFP Staff
PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- It may have been difficult to imagine the Boston University men’s hockey team (15-6-1, 12-4-1 Hockey East) turning in a better performance than they had in their 6-1 win over Providence College (9-11-2, 7-7-1 HE) at Agganis Arena on Friday night, but the very next night, they managed to do so with a 8-0 victory over the Friars in Providence. The Terriers went 6-for-9 on the power play and got two goals each from sophomore forward Sahir Gill and junior forward Wade Megan in their most lopsided win of the year.
“We have a saying in our offices that it’s amazing what can be accomplished when nobody’s worried about who gets the credit, and this team is worried about playing right,” BU coach Jack Parker said. “They were so unselfish tonight with the puck and so unselfish moving the puck and trying to make the next right play that it just looked like a real good team tonight. I don’t mean winning or losing, I mean coming together as a team and really caring about each other.”
If there was any suspicion that BU’s four-goal third period against the Friars the previous night had been a fluke, the Terriers erased it quickly when they put up three goals in the first period on Saturday. Sophomore forward Matt Nieto recorded his 10th goal of the year at 4:39 on the power play to open the scoring, and junior defenseman Max Nicastro followed a few minutes later with a blast from the top of the right circle.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- It may have been difficult to imagine the Boston University men’s hockey team (15-6-1, 12-4-1 Hockey East) turning in a better performance than they had in their 6-1 win over Providence College (9-11-2, 7-7-1 HE) at Agganis Arena on Friday night, but the very next night, they managed to do so with a 8-0 victory over the Friars in Providence. The Terriers went 6-for-9 on the power play and got two goals each from sophomore forward Sahir Gill and junior forward Wade Megan in their most lopsided win of the year.
“We have a saying in our offices that it’s amazing what can be accomplished when nobody’s worried about who gets the credit, and this team is worried about playing right,” BU coach Jack Parker said. “They were so unselfish tonight with the puck and so unselfish moving the puck and trying to make the next right play that it just looked like a real good team tonight. I don’t mean winning or losing, I mean coming together as a team and really caring about each other.”
If there was any suspicion that BU’s four-goal third period against the Friars the previous night had been a fluke, the Terriers erased it quickly when they put up three goals in the first period on Saturday. Sophomore forward Matt Nieto recorded his 10th goal of the year at 4:39 on the power play to open the scoring, and junior defenseman Max Nicastro followed a few minutes later with a blast from the top of the right circle.
Clendening, Noonan rise to challenges both on offense and defense
By Annie Maroon/DFP Staff
When they lost two of their top offensive players in Corey Trivino and Charlie Coyle last month, the Boston University men’s hockey team knew their remaining forwards would have to pick up the scoring pace. It takes a considerable amount of pressure off the forwards, though, when defensemen can contribute to a team’s offense the way sophomores Adam Clendening and Garrett Noonan have in the Terriers’ last several games.
In BU’s 6-1 defeat of Providence College on Friday, Clendening was named the game’s first star with four assists. He and Noonan teamed up to set up junior forward Ryan Santana’s goal in the first period, and Noonan also recorded his seventh goal of the year. He now leads Hockey East defensemen in goals.
“He goes to the net like a forward does, but he scores goals and he’s good defensively, and he’s a very good player,” Clendening said of Noonan. “I think it’s been his FIFA game that’s really made him the player he is. He plays a lot of FIFA these days, so he’s learning the soccer game to get to the net.”
When they lost two of their top offensive players in Corey Trivino and Charlie Coyle last month, the Boston University men’s hockey team knew their remaining forwards would have to pick up the scoring pace. It takes a considerable amount of pressure off the forwards, though, when defensemen can contribute to a team’s offense the way sophomores Adam Clendening and Garrett Noonan have in the Terriers’ last several games.
In BU’s 6-1 defeat of Providence College on Friday, Clendening was named the game’s first star with four assists. He and Noonan teamed up to set up junior forward Ryan Santana’s goal in the first period, and Noonan also recorded his seventh goal of the year. He now leads Hockey East defensemen in goals.
“He goes to the net like a forward does, but he scores goals and he’s good defensively, and he’s a very good player,” Clendening said of Noonan. “I think it’s been his FIFA game that’s really made him the player he is. He plays a lot of FIFA these days, so he’s learning the soccer game to get to the net.”
The good, the bad and the otherwise notable: BU beats Providence, 6-1
By Tim Healey/DFP Staff
The No. 2/3 Boston University men’s hockey team topped conference foe Providence College, 6-1, on Friday night at Agganis Arena, evening the season series at one win apiece. Despite the sizable goal differential in Friday’s game, not everything went well for the Terriers (14-6-1, 11-4-1 Hockey East). Here’s a look at what went well and what did not against the Friars (9-10-2, 7-6-1 Hockey East).
The No. 2/3 Boston University men’s hockey team topped conference foe Providence College, 6-1, on Friday night at Agganis Arena, evening the season series at one win apiece. Despite the sizable goal differential in Friday’s game, not everything went well for the Terriers (14-6-1, 11-4-1 Hockey East). Here’s a look at what went well and what did not against the Friars (9-10-2, 7-6-1 Hockey East).
Friday, January 20, 2012
Terriers ride strong start to decisive win over Friars
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
When the No. 2/3 Boston University men’s hockey team played Providence College earlier this season, the Terriers (14-6-1, 11-4-1 Hockey East) were plagued by a slow start and faced a three-goal deficit by the end of the first period in the game. Even the team bus arrived late that night.
But on Friday evening at Agganis Arena, the Terriers made up for that slow start with a four-goal first period against the Friars (9-10-2, 7-6-1 Hockey East). They rode that strong start to a 6-1 win and moved into sole possession of first place in the league.
Providence starting netminder Alex Beaudry was chased from the game after venturing way out of position on the third Terrier goal, which came 13:23 into the first period.
“We had the puck going in the net for us tonight,” said BU coach Jack Parker. “I thought my team played great for almost the entire game. We really played well in the first and we really played well in the third.”
When the No. 2/3 Boston University men’s hockey team played Providence College earlier this season, the Terriers (14-6-1, 11-4-1 Hockey East) were plagued by a slow start and faced a three-goal deficit by the end of the first period in the game. Even the team bus arrived late that night.
But on Friday evening at Agganis Arena, the Terriers made up for that slow start with a four-goal first period against the Friars (9-10-2, 7-6-1 Hockey East). They rode that strong start to a 6-1 win and moved into sole possession of first place in the league.
Providence starting netminder Alex Beaudry was chased from the game after venturing way out of position on the third Terrier goal, which came 13:23 into the first period.
“We had the puck going in the net for us tonight,” said BU coach Jack Parker. “I thought my team played great for almost the entire game. We really played well in the first and we really played well in the third.”
From the FreeP: Terriers look to fend off Friars
By Tim Healey/DFP Staff
To say the least, a lot has happened since the No. 2/3 Boston University men’s hockey team faced off against Providence College last.
When the Terriers (13-6-1, 10-4-1 Hockey East) visited the Friars (9-9-2, 7-5-1 Hockey East) at Schneider Arena on Oct. 14, BU was a team that was nothing short of consistently being inconsistent.
Bogged down by rainy weather and heavy traffic en route to the Ocean State, the Terriers fell behind 3-0 early before ultimately losing 5-3.
“We can take a lot from that game,” said BU coach Jack Parker. “They dominated us at times with their team speed, with their penalty kill, and they’ve done it all year to everybody.”
But now, three months later and fresh off a pair of come-from-behind wins, BU will play a home-and-home with Providence to wrap up the season series. The Terriers will host the Friars on Friday at Agganis Arena at 7:30 p.m. before visiting Schneider Arena again on Saturday for a 7 p.m. puck drop.
For more, visit dailyfreepress.com.
Projected lines:
Wade Megan – Chris Connolly – Alex Chiasson
Matt Nieto – Sahir Gill – Evan Rodrigues
Justin Courtnall – Cason Hohmann – Yasin Cissé
Ross Gaudet – Ben Rosen – Ryan Santana
Sean Escobedo – Adam Clendening
Garrett Noonan – Alexx Privitera
Max Nicastro – Patrick MacGregor
Kieran Millan
Grant Rollheiser
To say the least, a lot has happened since the No. 2/3 Boston University men’s hockey team faced off against Providence College last.
When the Terriers (13-6-1, 10-4-1 Hockey East) visited the Friars (9-9-2, 7-5-1 Hockey East) at Schneider Arena on Oct. 14, BU was a team that was nothing short of consistently being inconsistent.
Bogged down by rainy weather and heavy traffic en route to the Ocean State, the Terriers fell behind 3-0 early before ultimately losing 5-3.
“We can take a lot from that game,” said BU coach Jack Parker. “They dominated us at times with their team speed, with their penalty kill, and they’ve done it all year to everybody.”
But now, three months later and fresh off a pair of come-from-behind wins, BU will play a home-and-home with Providence to wrap up the season series. The Terriers will host the Friars on Friday at Agganis Arena at 7:30 p.m. before visiting Schneider Arena again on Saturday for a 7 p.m. puck drop.
For more, visit dailyfreepress.com.
Projected lines:
Wade Megan – Chris Connolly – Alex Chiasson
Matt Nieto – Sahir Gill – Evan Rodrigues
Justin Courtnall – Cason Hohmann – Yasin Cissé
Ross Gaudet – Ben Rosen – Ryan Santana
Sean Escobedo – Adam Clendening
Garrett Noonan – Alexx Privitera
Max Nicastro – Patrick MacGregor
Kieran Millan
Grant Rollheiser
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Pregame prediction proves true as Chris Connolly scores his first two goals of season
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
ALLSTON -- Through the first 19 games of the 2011-12 Boston University men’s hockey season, senior captain Chris Connolly did everything a captain of a hockey team should do – everything, that is, except score a goal.
The goal-scoring drought was unfamiliar territory for the senior. Connolly scored exactly 10 goals in each of his previous three seasons as a Terrier, but it has never taken him longer than seven games to net his first of the year. The Duluth, Minn. native has had plenty of chances to score this season as he leads the team in shots on goal (66) and assists (16).
But for some reason, he struggled to find the back of the net on any of his chances, and so with every passing game, the pressure was mounting. It seemed to be anyone’s guess as to when Connolly would finally get that first goal out of the way, but it was an educated guess from Brian Kelley, BU’s senior assistant director of athletic communications, that finally came true.
Late rally lifts BU over Harvard, 4-3
By Annie Maroon/DFP Staff
ALLSTON -- It was far from the “complete-game effort” coaches always want to see, but the No. 6 Boston University men’s hockey team (13-6-1) pulled off a 4-3 overtime victory against Harvard University (4-6-6) on Saturday on the strength of two third-period goals and sophomore defenseman Garrett Noonan's overtime winner.
Although senior forward Chris Connolly scored his first goal of the season late in the first period – to go with 15 assists on the year – BU was outplayed for most of the first two periods, trailing Harvard 22-14 in shots after 40 minutes.
“We looked way out of sync and they really controlled center ice,” BU coach Jack Parker said of the first two periods. “We had no way to get in their zone. I had to get into my team pretty good at the end of the second period because I thought they were just cruising around out there. [In the third period] we really played much smarter and much harder, and the ice just seemed tilted after we got the second goal. We just really dominated after that.”
ALLSTON -- It was far from the “complete-game effort” coaches always want to see, but the No. 6 Boston University men’s hockey team (13-6-1) pulled off a 4-3 overtime victory against Harvard University (4-6-6) on Saturday on the strength of two third-period goals and sophomore defenseman Garrett Noonan's overtime winner.
Although senior forward Chris Connolly scored his first goal of the season late in the first period – to go with 15 assists on the year – BU was outplayed for most of the first two periods, trailing Harvard 22-14 in shots after 40 minutes.
“We looked way out of sync and they really controlled center ice,” BU coach Jack Parker said of the first two periods. “We had no way to get in their zone. I had to get into my team pretty good at the end of the second period because I thought they were just cruising around out there. [In the third period] we really played much smarter and much harder, and the ice just seemed tilted after we got the second goal. We just really dominated after that.”
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Megan meaningful at right times for Terriers
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
When the No. 6 Boston University Terriers needs a goal in a crucial moment, all they have to do is look to Wade Megan. The junior forward leads the team in goals (10), power-play goals (5), shorthanded goals (2) and game-winners (3). His production has provided quite a boost to the Terriers (12-6-1, 10-4-1 Hockey East); the team is 7-1-0 in games in which Megan scores a goal.
So when BU fought its way out of an early two-goal hole during Friday night’s game against Northeastern University, it was only natural that Megan was a key part of the Terrier attack.
When the No. 6 Boston University Terriers needs a goal in a crucial moment, all they have to do is look to Wade Megan. The junior forward leads the team in goals (10), power-play goals (5), shorthanded goals (2) and game-winners (3). His production has provided quite a boost to the Terriers (12-6-1, 10-4-1 Hockey East); the team is 7-1-0 in games in which Megan scores a goal.
So when BU fought its way out of an early two-goal hole during Friday night’s game against Northeastern University, it was only natural that Megan was a key part of the Terrier attack.
Vinny Saponari reacts to playing former BU teammates for first time
By Tim Healey/DFP Staff
The No. 6 Boston University men's hockey team's 4-3 win over Northeastern University Friday night marked the first time the two teams met during the 2011-12 season, meaning it was also the first time former Terrier and current Husky Vinny Saponari faced off against his former teammates and coach.
Saponari's well-documented tenure at BU resulted in him and his older brother Victor being removed from the team in May 2010 for "conduct unbecoming of a Boston University hockey player," BU coach Jack Parker said in a statement at the time.
The Powder Springs, Ga. native was briefly committed to Boston College, but after being denied by BC's admissions office, the forward decided to take his talents to Northeastern.
In the days leading to Friday's BU-Northeastern game, Saponari expressed his excitement on Twitter - "I would b lying if I told you fri the 13th of jan was not a date I hve been looking fw to for a long time," he tweeted on Thursday - and spoke with the media after the game, touching on a variety of topics. The following is a transcript on his comments on everything from facing his old team to playing at Fenway on Saturday to visiting Agganis Arena in March.
The No. 6 Boston University men's hockey team's 4-3 win over Northeastern University Friday night marked the first time the two teams met during the 2011-12 season, meaning it was also the first time former Terrier and current Husky Vinny Saponari faced off against his former teammates and coach.
Saponari's well-documented tenure at BU resulted in him and his older brother Victor being removed from the team in May 2010 for "conduct unbecoming of a Boston University hockey player," BU coach Jack Parker said in a statement at the time.
The Powder Springs, Ga. native was briefly committed to Boston College, but after being denied by BC's admissions office, the forward decided to take his talents to Northeastern.
In the days leading to Friday's BU-Northeastern game, Saponari expressed his excitement on Twitter - "I would b lying if I told you fri the 13th of jan was not a date I hve been looking fw to for a long time," he tweeted on Thursday - and spoke with the media after the game, touching on a variety of topics. The following is a transcript on his comments on everything from facing his old team to playing at Fenway on Saturday to visiting Agganis Arena in March.
Friday, January 13, 2012
Terriers top Huskies, 4-3
By Tim Healey/DFP Staff
In the opening act of its first back-to-back games of 2012, the No. 6 Boston University men’s hockey team downed Northeastern University 4-3 Friday night at Matthews Arena.
In a game that was more than just a game for some involved – Northeastern (8-8-3, 4-8-2 Hockey East) forward Vinny Saponari faced off against his former team for the first time since being dismissed from the Terriers (12-6-1, 10-4-1 Hockey East) in May 2010 – Northeastern drew first blood with a pair of goals 1:05 apart.
At 18:38 in the first, forward Alex Tuckerman found the back of the net after BU could not clear the puck out of its defensive zone, leading to Tuckerman beating senior goaltender Kieran Millan high.
Moments later, senior captain Chris Connolly’s attempted clear ended up on Northeastern forward Ludwig Karlsson’s stick high in the slot. The Stockholm, Sweden native promptly beat Millan high again for the quick 2-0 lead at 19:33.
In the opening act of its first back-to-back games of 2012, the No. 6 Boston University men’s hockey team downed Northeastern University 4-3 Friday night at Matthews Arena.
In a game that was more than just a game for some involved – Northeastern (8-8-3, 4-8-2 Hockey East) forward Vinny Saponari faced off against his former team for the first time since being dismissed from the Terriers (12-6-1, 10-4-1 Hockey East) in May 2010 – Northeastern drew first blood with a pair of goals 1:05 apart.
At 18:38 in the first, forward Alex Tuckerman found the back of the net after BU could not clear the puck out of its defensive zone, leading to Tuckerman beating senior goaltender Kieran Millan high.
Moments later, senior captain Chris Connolly’s attempted clear ended up on Northeastern forward Ludwig Karlsson’s stick high in the slot. The Stockholm, Sweden native promptly beat Millan high again for the quick 2-0 lead at 19:33.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
No. 6 BU gears up to face former teammate followed by ECAC foe
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
For months, Jan. 13 has been a likely pick as one of the more interesting matchups on the 2011-12 Hockey East schedule. That Friday night will mark the first time Northeastern University forward Vinny Saponari will face his former team, the No. 6 Boston University Terriers.
Saponari was dismissed from the BU hockey team in May of 2010 for “conduct unbecoming of a Boston University hockey player,” said coach Jack Parker in a press release at the time. After spending a year playing in the United States Hockey League with the Dubuque Fighting Saints, Saponari made his return to Hockey East with a rebuilt Northeastern team under the reigns of new head coach Jim Madigan.
The Huskies struggled out of the gate, going 1-7-2 through their first 10 games. But Northeastern has caught fire as of late, going unbeaten in its last eight games to finish out 2011 with an 8-7-3 overall record.
“They’re doing it by winning on the road at Minnesota, on the road at North Dakota, at Notre Dame twice, on the road at Michigan, so it’s not like they’re playing the little sisters of the poor at home too,” Parker said. “So they’ve done a great job of turning their season around, and they’ll be a team to be reckoned with in our league and outside of our league for the rest of the year.”
For months, Jan. 13 has been a likely pick as one of the more interesting matchups on the 2011-12 Hockey East schedule. That Friday night will mark the first time Northeastern University forward Vinny Saponari will face his former team, the No. 6 Boston University Terriers.
Saponari was dismissed from the BU hockey team in May of 2010 for “conduct unbecoming of a Boston University hockey player,” said coach Jack Parker in a press release at the time. After spending a year playing in the United States Hockey League with the Dubuque Fighting Saints, Saponari made his return to Hockey East with a rebuilt Northeastern team under the reigns of new head coach Jim Madigan.
The Huskies struggled out of the gate, going 1-7-2 through their first 10 games. But Northeastern has caught fire as of late, going unbeaten in its last eight games to finish out 2011 with an 8-7-3 overall record.
“They’re doing it by winning on the road at Minnesota, on the road at North Dakota, at Notre Dame twice, on the road at Michigan, so it’s not like they’re playing the little sisters of the poor at home too,” Parker said. “So they’ve done a great job of turning their season around, and they’ll be a team to be reckoned with in our league and outside of our league for the rest of the year.”
Monday, January 9, 2012
BU vs. U.S. Under-18 Team: What went right/wrong for the Terriers
By Kevin Dillon/DFP Staff
The No. 10/11 Boston University men’s hockey team tied the U.S. National Under-18 Team, 3-3, in an exhibition game Sunday night at Agganis Arena, with goals scored by freshman defenseman Alexx Privitera, sophomore forward Matt Nieto, and junior defenseman Sean Escobedo. Here are three things that went right and wrong for the Terriers in the game.
The No. 10/11 Boston University men’s hockey team tied the U.S. National Under-18 Team, 3-3, in an exhibition game Sunday night at Agganis Arena, with goals scored by freshman defenseman Alexx Privitera, sophomore forward Matt Nieto, and junior defenseman Sean Escobedo. Here are three things that went right and wrong for the Terriers in the game.
Rosen's sacrifice proves his value as a Terrier
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
Traditionally, hockey players stand out most because of what they can do on the ice. But on Sunday night, it was junior forward Ben Rosen’s behavior off the ice that made an impact for the No. 10/11 Boston University men’s hockey team.
Rosen, a steady fixture at center on the fourth line, volunteered to sit out an exhibition game against the U.S. National Under-18 Team in order to allow the team to experiment with other players at center to use in case of injury or positional struggles. The try-out at center in game conditions was vital for the Terriers, who are down their top two pivots after losing senior Corey Trivino and sophomore Charlie Coyle during the winter break.
“He kind of volunteered not to play to tell you the truth, which was nice,” said coach Jack Parker. “I wanted to try [junior forward Ryan] Santana at center to see how he would do. I tried to get some guys playing some different positions.”
While the Terriers have been exploring different replacements in practice, it is difficult to tell how a center will perform unless he plays in an actual game. Unfortunately for the Terriers, the Hockey East standings are tight again this season, thus leaving little room for the Terriers to experiment with different centers in official games.
Traditionally, hockey players stand out most because of what they can do on the ice. But on Sunday night, it was junior forward Ben Rosen’s behavior off the ice that made an impact for the No. 10/11 Boston University men’s hockey team.
Rosen, a steady fixture at center on the fourth line, volunteered to sit out an exhibition game against the U.S. National Under-18 Team in order to allow the team to experiment with other players at center to use in case of injury or positional struggles. The try-out at center in game conditions was vital for the Terriers, who are down their top two pivots after losing senior Corey Trivino and sophomore Charlie Coyle during the winter break.
“He kind of volunteered not to play to tell you the truth, which was nice,” said coach Jack Parker. “I wanted to try [junior forward Ryan] Santana at center to see how he would do. I tried to get some guys playing some different positions.”
While the Terriers have been exploring different replacements in practice, it is difficult to tell how a center will perform unless he plays in an actual game. Unfortunately for the Terriers, the Hockey East standings are tight again this season, thus leaving little room for the Terriers to experiment with different centers in official games.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Canucks nip Bruins, 4-3, in Stanley Cup rematch
By René Reyes/DFP Staff
As is the case with some highly anticipated, “can’t-miss” regular-season games, they barely live up to all the hype and expectations.
But the rematch of the 2011 Stanley Cup Finals between the Boston Bruins (26-11-1) and Vancouver Canucks (26-13-3) on Saturday didn’t disappoint.
For diehard and casual hockey fans alike, this matinee at TD Garden had everything: seven goals, 75 shots, 30 penalties, 107 penalty minutes, countless after-the-whistle altercations, two Bruins players ejected and a whole lot of bad blood linking these bitter rivals.
Labeled as a talented but soft team and star forwards Henrik and Daniel Sedin referred to as the “Sedin Sisters” in the wake of their postseason showing, the Canucks exacted some revenge on the Bruins for their disheartening loss in last June’s finals. They scored four power-play goals on 11 opportunities to eke out an emotionally charged 4-3 win before a relentless Boston crowd.
As is the case with some highly anticipated, “can’t-miss” regular-season games, they barely live up to all the hype and expectations.
But the rematch of the 2011 Stanley Cup Finals between the Boston Bruins (26-11-1) and Vancouver Canucks (26-13-3) on Saturday didn’t disappoint.
For diehard and casual hockey fans alike, this matinee at TD Garden had everything: seven goals, 75 shots, 30 penalties, 107 penalty minutes, countless after-the-whistle altercations, two Bruins players ejected and a whole lot of bad blood linking these bitter rivals.
Labeled as a talented but soft team and star forwards Henrik and Daniel Sedin referred to as the “Sedin Sisters” in the wake of their postseason showing, the Canucks exacted some revenge on the Bruins for their disheartening loss in last June’s finals. They scored four power-play goals on 11 opportunities to eke out an emotionally charged 4-3 win before a relentless Boston crowd.
New year ushers in new-look BU hockey team
By Kevin Dillon/DFP Staff
In the waning days of 2011, the No. 10/11 Boston University men’s hockey team lost its top two centers, senior Corey Trivino and sophomore Charlie Coyle, in less than a week. Without them, the team suffered a 5-2 loss to University of Notre Dame on national television. The game forced many to wonder if the Terriers (11-6-1, 9-4-1 Hockey East) could be a playoff-caliber team without Coyle and Trivino.
In their first game of 2012, however, the Terriers defeated No. 6/7 Merrimack College 4-2 at Agganis Arena, proving that the team has moved past the tumultuous end of the previous year.
“We really needed to get a W to make us feel like, ‘ok after losing a couple of guys we are ok. We are going to be fine,’” BU coach Jack Parker said following the win.
In the waning days of 2011, the No. 10/11 Boston University men’s hockey team lost its top two centers, senior Corey Trivino and sophomore Charlie Coyle, in less than a week. Without them, the team suffered a 5-2 loss to University of Notre Dame on national television. The game forced many to wonder if the Terriers (11-6-1, 9-4-1 Hockey East) could be a playoff-caliber team without Coyle and Trivino.
In their first game of 2012, however, the Terriers defeated No. 6/7 Merrimack College 4-2 at Agganis Arena, proving that the team has moved past the tumultuous end of the previous year.
“We really needed to get a W to make us feel like, ‘ok after losing a couple of guys we are ok. We are going to be fine,’” BU coach Jack Parker said following the win.
Friday, January 6, 2012
Terriers start 2012 off in winning fashion
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
The No. 10/11 Boston University men’s hockey team started the new year off on a good note, as they rode a strong, 60-minute effort to top No. 6/7 Merrimack College, 4-2, on Friday night at Agganis Arena.
BU senior goaltender Kieran Millan made 42 saves in the winning effort and ten different Terriers found their way onto the scoresheet. By virtue of the win and Boston College’s inactivity Friday night, the Terriers (11-6-1, 9-4-1 Hockey East) moved into first place in Hockey East, leading the Eagles by one point.
“First of all, I was really pleased that we had a really solid effort,” said BU coach Jack Parker. “I think when you can beat Merrimack (11-4-3, 7-3-1 Hockey East), get four goals against them and get three in the first against them, you are telling yourself ‘we can be a pretty good hockey club.’”
The No. 10/11 Boston University men’s hockey team started the new year off on a good note, as they rode a strong, 60-minute effort to top No. 6/7 Merrimack College, 4-2, on Friday night at Agganis Arena.
BU senior goaltender Kieran Millan made 42 saves in the winning effort and ten different Terriers found their way onto the scoresheet. By virtue of the win and Boston College’s inactivity Friday night, the Terriers (11-6-1, 9-4-1 Hockey East) moved into first place in Hockey East, leading the Eagles by one point.
“First of all, I was really pleased that we had a really solid effort,” said BU coach Jack Parker. “I think when you can beat Merrimack (11-4-3, 7-3-1 Hockey East), get four goals against them and get three in the first against them, you are telling yourself ‘we can be a pretty good hockey club.’”
Terriers to start 2012 with battle against Merrimack Warriors
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
The No. 10/11 Boston University men’s hockey team will look to start off 2012 in winning fashion Friday when the Terriers suit up against the No. 6/7 Merrimack College Warriors. The game is a must-win for the Terriers (10-6-1, 8-4-1 Hockey East) if they want a chance at the season series since Merrimack already beat BU once this season in a 3-2 overtime thriller.
When the Warriors (11-3-3, 7-2-1 Hockey East) won that game back in November, they were the only unbeaten team in the country, but the landscape has changed since then. The Warriors have battled through a 3-3-2 stretch since facing BU, while the Terriers went 7-2.
“We know the game is real important in the standings,” said coach Jack Parker. “They’ve already beaten us once in one of our better games that I’ve thought we played this year. I don’t think there’s anybody that puts the fear of God in you like they had last year, but they do have an awful lot of guys that work very, very hard trying to get points and trying to get goals.”
The No. 10/11 Boston University men’s hockey team will look to start off 2012 in winning fashion Friday when the Terriers suit up against the No. 6/7 Merrimack College Warriors. The game is a must-win for the Terriers (10-6-1, 8-4-1 Hockey East) if they want a chance at the season series since Merrimack already beat BU once this season in a 3-2 overtime thriller.
When the Warriors (11-3-3, 7-2-1 Hockey East) won that game back in November, they were the only unbeaten team in the country, but the landscape has changed since then. The Warriors have battled through a 3-3-2 stretch since facing BU, while the Terriers went 7-2.
“We know the game is real important in the standings,” said coach Jack Parker. “They’ve already beaten us once in one of our better games that I’ve thought we played this year. I don’t think there’s anybody that puts the fear of God in you like they had last year, but they do have an awful lot of guys that work very, very hard trying to get points and trying to get goals.”
Bruins extinguish the Flames with 9-0 beatdown
By René Reyes/DFP Staff
En route to his team’s locker room, Cam Neely, sharply attired in a suit and tie, stood in a spacious but crowded elevator, surrounded by various members of the media.
“We win, huh?” asked the female security guard, who was manning the elevator.
The Boston Bruins president flashed a smile in her direction and mouthed a barely audible “yes.”
Little did the security guard know just how wide the margin of victory was for the reigning Stanley Cup champions at TD Garden last night. Patrice Bergeron and Nathan Horton scored two goals apiece, eight players recorded multi-point games, backup goaltender Tuukka Rask made 25 saves for his third shutout of the season and the B’s (26-10-1) cruised to a 9-0 shellacking of the Calgary Flames (18-19-5).
En route to his team’s locker room, Cam Neely, sharply attired in a suit and tie, stood in a spacious but crowded elevator, surrounded by various members of the media.
“We win, huh?” asked the female security guard, who was manning the elevator.
The Boston Bruins president flashed a smile in her direction and mouthed a barely audible “yes.”
Little did the security guard know just how wide the margin of victory was for the reigning Stanley Cup champions at TD Garden last night. Patrice Bergeron and Nathan Horton scored two goals apiece, eight players recorded multi-point games, backup goaltender Tuukka Rask made 25 saves for his third shutout of the season and the B’s (26-10-1) cruised to a 9-0 shellacking of the Calgary Flames (18-19-5).
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Jack Parker 'sick to [his] stomach' over injury to Minnesota hockey player Jack Jablonski
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
Any hockey family’s nightmare came true for a family in Minnesota last week, as 16-year-old Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School player Jack Jablonski was left paralyzed following a hit from behind in a junior varsity tournament game.
Boston University coach Jack Parker was especially devastated by the news of Jablonski’s injury. Parker has lived through the horrors of a spinal cord injury since 1995, when then-BU freshman Travis Roy crashed head-first into the boards 11 seconds into his first collegiate game, an Oct. 20 matchup against the University of North Dakota. Roy cracked his fourth cervical vertebra, leaving him paralyzed from the neck down.
Parker remained very close with Roy in the years following Roy’s accident and sees him regularly. He was there to witness much of Roy’s rehabilitation process and had to coach the rest of the team through handling such a severe injury to a teammate.
“It makes me sick to my stomach to think about,” Parker said of his reaction to Jablonski’s injury. “ I know what he’s going to go through. I know what his family is going to go through. I know what all his friends and his whole social network he has will go through because of this horrible accident.”
Any hockey family’s nightmare came true for a family in Minnesota last week, as 16-year-old Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School player Jack Jablonski was left paralyzed following a hit from behind in a junior varsity tournament game.
Boston University coach Jack Parker was especially devastated by the news of Jablonski’s injury. Parker has lived through the horrors of a spinal cord injury since 1995, when then-BU freshman Travis Roy crashed head-first into the boards 11 seconds into his first collegiate game, an Oct. 20 matchup against the University of North Dakota. Roy cracked his fourth cervical vertebra, leaving him paralyzed from the neck down.
Parker remained very close with Roy in the years following Roy’s accident and sees him regularly. He was there to witness much of Roy’s rehabilitation process and had to coach the rest of the team through handling such a severe injury to a teammate.
“It makes me sick to my stomach to think about,” Parker said of his reaction to Jablonski’s injury. “ I know what he’s going to go through. I know what his family is going to go through. I know what all his friends and his whole social network he has will go through because of this horrible accident.”
Sunday, January 1, 2012
BU @ Notre Dame: What went right and what went wrong
By Arielle Aronson/DFP Staff
The No. 9 Boston University men’s hockey team fell to No. 5/6 Notre Dame on New Year’s Eve. Here’s a look at what went wrong – and what went right – for BU Saturday night.
What went wrong for the Terriers:
Defense
BU had been improving defensively as the first semester came to a close, but their progress on the blue line took a major step back against Notre Dame. The Terriers deteriorated throughout the game in terms of blocking shots, directing traffic away from senior goaltender Kieran Millan, clearing the puck out of the zone and breaking up Notre Dame plays.
The No. 9 Boston University men’s hockey team fell to No. 5/6 Notre Dame on New Year’s Eve. Here’s a look at what went wrong – and what went right – for BU Saturday night.
What went wrong for the Terriers:
Defense
BU had been improving defensively as the first semester came to a close, but their progress on the blue line took a major step back against Notre Dame. The Terriers deteriorated throughout the game in terms of blocking shots, directing traffic away from senior goaltender Kieran Millan, clearing the puck out of the zone and breaking up Notre Dame plays.
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