February 10, 2008 (Reading, Pa) - The Crusaders reeled off three straight wins over the weekend to secure their first playoff appearance in club history. The Vern pulled off the trifecta with consecutive wins over Vanderbilt University, Widener University and Dickinson College. The successful string of wins, all coming on the road, solidified the Crusader's playoff position heading into the Mason-Dixon Conference Championship next week in Hershey, Pa.
Friday's headliner with Vanderbilt University was Alvernia's first look at the Skating Commodores. The game was played at the beautiful Hill School Arena in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. Vanderbilt played a gracious host but Alvernia won a 5-4 white knuckle contest. Crusader senior forward Ryan Kelly (Ardmore, Pa./Lower Merion HS) provided most of Alvernia's offensive fireworks recording the “Hat Trick”. Kelly notched the game winner with less than seven minutes remaining in regulation. The first line accounted for all Alvernia's goals. Freshman Josh Cohen (Pottstown, Pa./Coventry Christian HS) opened Alvernia's scoring with a half ice break away goal. Cohen picked up a loose puck in the Crusader neutral zone and out skated the Vandy defense culminating in quick wrist shot over the goaltenders late glove side. Stephen Waricka (Millstone, NJ/Allentown HS) also joined the score sheet with some persistent work in the opponents crease. Alvernia goaltender Chris Medico (Madison, NJ/Madison HS) picked up the win with some timely third period saves.
Alvernia's momentum carried into Saturday's match up with Widener University. Widener struggling mightily this season still boasts the best goaltending in the region are always competitive. The Vern captured a hard fought 7-4 win in this penalty happy affair. Widener climbed into the “sin bin” to the tune of seventeen penalties and several game misconducts. A well rested Jeff Bohler (Ephrata, Pa./Ephrata HS) highlighted the Vern with a “hat trick” performance. Bohler's absence on Friday night served as a catalyst for Alvernia the rest of the weekend. The hard skating power forward created numerous scoring chances while remaining an intimidating physical force.
Alvernia once again showcased a strong presence of Delaware County products. The home town crowd recognized Crusader leading goal scorer Anthony Froio (Glenolden, Pa./Interboro HS) who did not disappoint adding two more lamp lighters and two helpers. Freshman forward Chris Scales (Swarthmore, Pa./Cardinal O'Hara) contributed with good puck movement that resulted in passing two assists. Defensive pair Karl Knoblauch and Bob Crouse (Norwood, Pa./Interboro HS) both familiar with the locals kept the home coming happy with solid blue line play. Another Delaware County feel good story always occurs when Widener turncoat Pete Girard (Levittown, Pa./Harry S. Truman HS) faces off with twin brother Mike. The two played their freshman campaign with Widener until Pete found fresher air in Berks County. Cirard recorded three assists on the evening and created some game ending fireworks. Additional goal scorers for Alvernia included Eric Phillips (River Dell, NJ/River Dell Regional HS) and Josh Cohen. Goaltender Chris Medico saved 18 shots in the win.
The weekend finale at Dickinson had long shot playoff scenarios for both teams but only if Alvernia managed to stumble to a lopsided loss. The Red Devils had to win by double digits to win a tie breaker with Bucknell for the final spot in the division. Dickinson played a tough game and received outstanding net minding that turned away 53 Crusader shots. The Vern in dramatic fashion rallied back in the final minutes to tie the game on a Stephen Waricka goal.
Alvernia won the game 7-6 but not before every shooter was utilized in this thrill ride overtime shoot out. Eric Ryan (Aston, Pa./Sun Valley HS) absolutely mesmerized the Red Devil goalie and deeked to his forehand, snapping a wrist shot into the top left corner. Ryan's is the ultimate weapon that manages all aspects of the game with appears effortless ease. Ryan finished the afternoon with two goals with an assist. Defense ultimately won this shootout contest as Chris Medico stoned all five Dickinson penalty shots. Medico blanked the Red Devils who had several quality chances in the final minutes and five minute overtime.
Special Team Kudu's :
Medico records Alvernia's first shoot out win in Club History.
Caputo's blocked shot with time expiring and short handed.
Did You Notice :
Bohler vs. Cirard Tilt? Pete said no contest in favor of Mike ! Blood's thicker than water.
Alvernia's new traveling mascot….Ogie Ogelthorpe
Kasey turned 25 . Most celebrated trainer on 101.
Cirard's former teammates were quick to wish him well in the final second
Only G-Rated Films for Bohler before Games.
One Soft pretzel without mustard for Waricka
