Reading, Pa. (November 18, 2007) - The Crusaders finished off the two game weekend sweep defeating John Hopkins University in rather methodical fashion. Alvernia, utilizing its large roster showcased the depth of their team. The Crusaders did not miss a beat with the new faces, in fact they managed to control the tempo of the game unloading 50 shots on the opposition goal while minimizing Hopkins to a mere 11 shots on goal.

 
The Vern having the luxury of an unusually deep bench were able to get a closer look at the reserve players. The balance of the offense came from the familiar faces of Steve Schlegel, Ryan Kelly, Karl Knoblauch and Stephen Waricka. Each tallied two goals a piece accounting for the majority of the team's offense. Most impressive was the scoring contribution from blue line standouts Steve Schlegel (Morrisville, Pa/Conwell Egan) and freshman talent Karl Knoblauch (Norwood, Pa/Interboro). Knoblauch contributed two goals and a helper for a three point evening. Schlegel usually delivers punishing body checks but also packs a hard slap shot. Schlegel ripped home two whistlers from the right circle; both appeared to freeze the Hopkins net minder. 

Alvernia started the scoring in the first period when Stephen Waricka (Millstone, NJ/Allentown) poked home a pass from first line mate Josh Cohen (Pottstown, Pa/Coventry Christian). Cohen finished the evening with a multiple point night which included a goal and two assists. The first period remained surprisingly close although the shot totals revealed a much different story at 17-3 favor Alvernia. 

The second period loosened up the Hopkins goaltender with four Alvernia goals. Crusader's leading point getter, Anthony Froio (Glendolden, Pa/Interboro) connected with his 17th goal of the season. Knoblauch demonstrated some crafty stick handling on his unassisted goal which he maneuvered around several Hopkins defenders and stuffed a snap shot high in the right corner. Coach O'Connell noted, “Karl has extremely good hands and skates well for his large stature, we see him make these moves in practice but when if correlates into a game situation it provides another facet to his defensive resume.” 

Alvernia drove home five more goals in the third period while allowing two soft goals as the game tempo struggled for intensity. John Hopkins represented another Mason-Dixon win that stands to move Alvernia to league leading status in team points.

 

Did You Notice:

Physical Presence of Steve Schlegel and Freshman Brett McCarthy. 

 

Special Team Kudos:

Alvernia limited to only four Minor's

Ryan Kelly recorded two goals with two assists

Zane Camburn with a two point night.