BOX SCORE

West Chester, Pa. (Oct. 23, 2010) - The Vern emptied the chambers again, blasting the West Chester University Golden Rams 8-3, highlighted by seven different lamp lighters.  Avenging a tough early loss dating back almost a year ago, the Vern traveled to West Chester and kept the pedal down all game.  The loss represented the first loss of the young season for the Golden Rams and continued to push the Crusaders to the top of the DVCHC standings in a highlighted conference clash.

Sean Castineira (Philadelphia, Pa./Roman Catholic) led the Crusaders offensively with two goals and one helper.  Castineira's second line also received goals from Mike Christie (Collegeville, Pa/Perkiomen) and assistant captain Christian Baron (Philadelphia, Pa./LaSalle College).  Crusader captain Anthony Froio (Glenolden, Pa./Interboro) contributed to the score sheet as did freshman Kyle Kopervas (Marlton, NJ/Wyoming Secondary) who scored the game winner from the high slot in the first period.

The Vern's defense was extremely stingy led by AU goaltender Mike Restuccia (Chester Springs, Pa/Bishop Shanahan).  Restuccia turned away 32 shots, doing his best work during the WCU power plays.  Defense by committee was in effect as everyone turned in a strong game on the Crusader's blue line.  The defensive pairing of Kevin Meers (Morgantown, Pa./Twin Valley) and Andrew Dziedzic (Philadelphia, Pa./Father Judge) turned in an outstanding performance in the Vern's defensive end. Howard Bates (Philadelphia, Pa./Father Judge) cleaned house with several huge hits rocking on WCU forwards.

The Crusaders received additional goals from Ian Meiskey (Lancaster, Pa./Hempfield).  Meiskey converted on the power play blasting a rocket shot from the top of the right circle inside the the right post and ricocheting into the net.  Ben Yuro (Howell, NJ/Christian Brothers Academy) lit the lamp continuing his four-game point streak.  Alvernia's defense anchored by assistant captain Eric Ryan (Aston, Pa./Sun Valley) continued to showcase the complete package of hockey.  For all Ryan's ice time he lost nothing in speed or stamina in the process.  Ryan added an assist and thwarted countless WCU counter-rushes.  Ryan's greatest asset was the intrinsic value that he brings every time he takes a shift, his explosive speed and quick hands.

The Crusaders will now prepare for the Halloween face-off with scary foe and four-year rival Neumann University.  Last night's victory over WCU represents Alvernia's first win over the Golden Ram's in two contests.  Last year's 3-2 loss at home proved costly as WCU finished above Alvernia in the final 2010 Atlantic Rankings.