Reading, Pa. (Sat. Nov. 13, 2010) - The Crusaders lost their first game in regulation this season at the hands of Richard Stockton College of New Jersey.  The loss snapped Alvernia's impressive seven-game winning streak.  A marked team now, the Crusaders entered weekend play ranked seventh in the ACHA's Atlantic Region.  Despite the loss, Alvernia still holds a narrow one game lead in the tough American Division of the DVCHC.

The 7-6 loss also represents the Vern's first loss at home this season, moving their overall team record to 8-1-1.  The Crusaders managed to generate offense, but sloppy defensive play allowed the Osprey's to one up the Vern.  Alvernia was led offensively by Mike Christie (Collegeville, Pa./Perkiomen Valley) who posted a hat trick.  Senior Stephen Waricka (Millstone, Pa./ Allentown) continued his resurging play with his first goal of the season.  Waricka is a physical force that adds scoring touch.  The Crusaders will need the continued strong play of the fourth line which has included Waricka and the hard hitting Zane Camburn (Riegelsville, Pa./Nazareth).

Additional Alvernia goal scorers included senior Josh Cohen (Pottstown, Pa./Coventry Christian) and sophomore Kevin Mengel (Gilbertsville, Pa./Boyertown) continued his goal scoring barrage with an early goal just 26 seconds into the opening period.  Mike Restuccia (Chester Springs, Pa./Bishop Shanahan) and freshman Patrick Murray (Cranford, Pa./Cranford) shared the goaltending responsibilities in the loss. Murray played well in relief of Restuccia keeping the Vern within in striking distance.

The Crusaders head into their first collegiate tournament this weekend.  The Empire Tournament line up will feature a three-game weekend agaonst top Atlantic Region competition that includes power house club hockey programs in Farmingdale State and the California University of Pennsylvania on Friday and Saturday respectively.  Alvernia will face southern conference #6 Salisbury University on Sunday afternoon.  The tournament will be pivotal in determining Alvernia's ability to move closer to its first regional playoff bid in the ACHA National Tournament in February.