Reading, Pa.(Dec. 2, 2006) - Alvernia’s flash and fade effort gave the Catholic University Cardinals a pleasant flight south for the winter. The Vern was quick out of the shoot, mounting a quick three goal first period lead. It proved to be false promise, as the card house collapsed around poor defense and careless penalties. The Crusader's late game rally was not enough to counter the horrendous second period meltdown.
The Crusader’s first 20 minutes were the best, but hardly indicative of the the score. Catholic surrendered four goals on only 12 shots. The opportune Crusader squad picked up early momentum from captain Ryan Kelly (Ardmore, PA/Lower Merion HS) who converted break away chances with back to back goals. Kelly’s ability to disrupt play in the neutral zones gave the Cardinals fits, while his speed created the space for half ice breaks. The 2-0 lead was cut in half midway thru the opening period, however Alvernia countered with a Pete Cirard (Levittown, PA/Harry S. Truman HS) tally off the look of Kelly. Catholic University, now trailing 3-1 gave up another late first period goal to freshman forward Matt Iamurri (Philadelphia, PA/Neumann and Gorretti HS). The third line winger received a pass from line mate Michael Gilhool (Boothwyn, PA/Chichester HS off the left circle hash marks, and deposited his first collegiate goal from point blank in the slot.
Alvernia’s lead vanished in less than five quick minutes of the second period with Catholic posting two goals in the opening 50 seconds. By the time the second period horn sounded it was 6-4 going the other way. The Jekyl and Hyde show was complete, a tale of two teams. Alvernia’s pitiful defensive coverage couldn’t counter the Cardinals offensive pressure. The Catholic five goal output help define the Crusader’s worst period of the season to date.
Third period heroics fell slightly short, although John Caputo (Philadelphia, PA/Roman Catholic HS) narrowed the gap to one goal midway in the final frame. Catholic University quickly regained the two goal cushion, with a one on one counter rush finished off quite nicely through the Alvernia goaltender’s five hole. Alvernia played hockey’s version of Russian Roulette and yanked goaltender Chris Medico (Madison NJ/Madison HS) and opted for the extra attacker. Catholic found the open net with 46 seconds remaining to seal the victory.
Special Team Kudo’s
Ryan Kelly’s short handed breakaway was the only special teams point all night.
Outstanding Efforts
Three point night for Ryan Kelly
Did you Notice?
Catholic pulled the starting goalie at the halfway point in the second period
