BOX SCORE 1 | BOX SCORE 2 Reading, Pa. (Jan. 27, 2013) - The Crusaders (18-5, 6-1-1) lost a huge conference clash with DVCHC rival and nemesis PSU-Brandywine 3-2 on Saturday evening.  The defeat was followed by a 7-3 win over the Shippensburg University Red Raiders on Sunday evening.  The featured Saturday grudge match with PSU had all the drama and twists and turns that generally follow these two teams with an all too familiar result.  The Lions (13-8) held on with a narrow win while potentially sending the Crusaders to a tougher post-season task both in the DVCHC standings while most importantly in the ACHA Atlantic Region post-season draw.

Alvernia, who was firmly in control of their post season destiny may have been derailed from a more desirable playoff match-up after the disappointing home ice lost to perennial late season bug-a-boo PSU Brandywine.  The Lions have twice defeated the Vern in the DVCHC Conference Championships in the last three seasons.  Still yet to leap that hurdle, it appears likely these teams will meet again in the post-season with no love lost.

The Crusaders managed to erase a two goal deficit in the PSU game, and knotted the score up in the second period with goals from freshman Nico Delgiorno  (Columbia, Pa./Hempfield) and the surging play of  Alex Harris (Avon Lake, Oh./ Wooster).  The third period was a see-saw battle with both teams getting quality opportunities on the power play, however, ultimately the game-winner belonged to the Lions.  The Crusaders were granted a crucial two man advantage the final three minutes but could hardly muster a serious threat.