2/6/2006 11:10:41 AM

Alvernia Sinks Ship with 5-4 Thriller

Medico strong between the Pipes

Reading, Pa. (Feb. 4, 2006) - Shippensburg University appeared stunned in what proved to be Alvernia’s most impressive win to date. The Crusaders validated the ice hockey program Saturday night with a total team effort. Freshman goaltender Chris Medico turned away many great scoring chances all night, but none more important than the last two which came with time expiring in the 3^rd period.
          Alvernia successfully won a neutral zone draw and pushed the puck in the Shippensburg defensive zone with little more than ten seconds remaining, however the Red Raiders mounted a last chance power drive which culminated into two point-blank shots with the latter clinking the post as time expired. A fantastic finish and certainly worth the price of admission this game had the makings of a classic.
          The Crusaders jumped on top midway through the first period, as Bruce Hawthorne opened the scoring down low, poking a rebound home for the early lead. Less than a minute later Ryan Kelly fired one into the twine recording his team leading 10th goal. Ship cut the lead to one late in the first period cutting the lead to 2-1. Spring semester pick-up defenseman Kevin Walker excited the crowd with a nifty backhand crossing the slot uncontended . Walker threaded the needle with a feathery backhand past the unbalanced goaltenders stick hand.
          Feeling the confidence, Alvernia kept the red light spinning. Defenseman Brent Reed snuggled up against the boards negating a Shippensburg clearing effort and moved forward snapping off a right circle snap shot which stayed low off the radar sneaking inside the opposite post giving Reed his second goal of the season.
          The Crusaders entered the 3^rd period with what appeared to be a comfortable 4-1 lead. Shippensburg came out fast and furious popping in three goals in as many minutes. A new game and same old story line for the Crusaders. It appeared destiny was on track for a disappointing 3^rd period collapse. Alvernia played stellar defense after the quick strikes, and mounted pressure that would lead to a huge Ship penalty. The Red Raiders were handed a five minute major for a dangerous check. Ryan Kelly wasted no time regaining the edge after receiving a pass from Chris Pratt and making good for his second of the night. Kelly’s goal was the game winner and set the stage for a barnburner finish. The Red Raiders left it all out on the ice the last two minutes playing Russian roulette with an empty net. Alvernia earned a hard fought win an impressive gut check performance.

Special Team Kudos:
Bill Heller knocked down but not out
Kevin Walker aggressive holding the blue line
Conor Delaney camping out in front drew two key Ship penalties
Another two point night for Chris Pratt
Chris Pastal’s second assist

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