Looking to rebound from the loss to Washington the previous night, USC came out faster and stronger but came up short, losing the close match 3-1.
After a quiet and scoreless 1st period, the action livened up early into the 2nd as the Huskies' Stefan Sobiek (unassisted) poked the puck away on defense and scored on the ensuing breakaway.
Another UW goal, this time on a 5-on-3 power play, was tipped in by Daniel Carson (Sobiek, Jordan Chenersky) to make it 2-0 going into the 2nd intermission.
USC regrouped during the 3rd period, scoring halfway through the frame on a USC power play as Dante Caravaggio (Thomas Waschenfelder) ripped a shot through a screen and past UW goalie Danny Dougan, bring the Trojans to within one goal.
However, the Trojan comeback was repelled with less than two minutes left to go in the game, as UW's Phil Harezlak fed Andrew Johnson at the top of the circle, who fired it past traffic and into the top corner, finishing off their roadtrip with the 3-1 victory.
The Trojans finish off the regular season against non-conference foes Long Beach State and Loyola Marymount next weekend before heading up to Seattle for the PAC 8 Conference Championships on February 11-12, joining California, Oregon, and host Washington as the qualifying teams.
Third-seeded USC will again faceoff against 2nd-seeded UW, this time at the Huskies' home rink, while top-seeded Oregon squares off against 4th-seeded Cal.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Saturday, January 29, 2011
USC Trojans vs. UW Huskies: Pac-8 Championship Rematch Game 2-Postgame
USC came out with a whole different attitude and a new lineup in the 3rd period, and it paid off to start. Physical play was the theme of the period as both team traded hit after hit, and penalty after penalty. USC finally struck first in the period, but UW was able to put it away late in the 3rd, sinking the Trojans 3-1.
USC came out much stronger than they had been in the previous 5 periods this weekend, trying to swing the momentum in their favor. Coach Langille switched up the lineup, putting Freshman Thomas Washenfelder with Freshman James Huebner and Junior Assistant Captain Noah Comisar, and it paid off on the power play. Washenfelder fed Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio at the point, who ripped a shot through a Huebner screen and past Husky goalie Danny Dougan. USC continued to battle for momentum all the way through the period, but with less than 2 minutes to play, UW struck back, as a Tristan Wickliff slap-shot from the top of the near circle rifled into the top corner through a thoroughly screened Freshman goalie Alex Caravaggio. The goal sent the Trojans home with the 3-1 loss.
My first star of the game goes to Junior Assistant Captain Noah Comisar. Though he did not show up on the scoresheet tonight, his physical play throughout the first 2 periods was the ultimate "lead by example" type of play. His work clearly caught the sight of Coach Langille, who put him as the grinder up on the first line, and his physical play combined with Waschenfelder and Huebner gave the Trojans the best chance they had to win. Look for Comisar to continue that physicality going into next weekend's games against LMU and LBSU.
Overall, the Trojans played a very up and down game against the Huskies. They showed, though, that they can skate with them, and if they played the same way they played in the 3rd period for all three, USC would've come out of this game with a win. Alex Caravaggio continues to prove why he is the premier goalie in the Pac-8, and his play is an example the rest of the Trojan lineup can follow.
I'll be back next Friday for the Trojans game against LMU.
James
USC came out much stronger than they had been in the previous 5 periods this weekend, trying to swing the momentum in their favor. Coach Langille switched up the lineup, putting Freshman Thomas Washenfelder with Freshman James Huebner and Junior Assistant Captain Noah Comisar, and it paid off on the power play. Washenfelder fed Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio at the point, who ripped a shot through a Huebner screen and past Husky goalie Danny Dougan. USC continued to battle for momentum all the way through the period, but with less than 2 minutes to play, UW struck back, as a Tristan Wickliff slap-shot from the top of the near circle rifled into the top corner through a thoroughly screened Freshman goalie Alex Caravaggio. The goal sent the Trojans home with the 3-1 loss.
My first star of the game goes to Junior Assistant Captain Noah Comisar. Though he did not show up on the scoresheet tonight, his physical play throughout the first 2 periods was the ultimate "lead by example" type of play. His work clearly caught the sight of Coach Langille, who put him as the grinder up on the first line, and his physical play combined with Waschenfelder and Huebner gave the Trojans the best chance they had to win. Look for Comisar to continue that physicality going into next weekend's games against LMU and LBSU.
Overall, the Trojans played a very up and down game against the Huskies. They showed, though, that they can skate with them, and if they played the same way they played in the 3rd period for all three, USC would've come out of this game with a win. Alex Caravaggio continues to prove why he is the premier goalie in the Pac-8, and his play is an example the rest of the Trojan lineup can follow.
I'll be back next Friday for the Trojans game against LMU.
James
USC Trojans vs. UW Huskies: Pac-8 Championship Rematch Game 2-2nd Period Analysis
Two very unfortunate goals doomed the Trojans in the 2nd period here at Anaheim Ice, as the UW Huskies have taken a 2-0 lead here with 20 minutes to go in Game 2 of our Pac-8 Championship rematch. Stefan Sobiek and Daniel Carson scored to put the Huskies ahead.
Both teams again came out very physical, and USC was finally awarded their first power play 3 minutes into the period, but the Huskies turned it towards their favor, when Sobiek poked it away from a Trojan defender and went untouched on a breakaway on Freshman goalie Alex Caravaggio. Caravaggio gave it all he had, but to no avail as Sobiek put it past him to power UW to a 1-0 lead. Both teams played back and forth through the middle of the period, but penalty trouble slowed down the Trojan attack yet again, and the Huskies took advantage of yet ANOTHER 5-3, when Carson tipped a Sobiek shot past Caravaggio to send USC to the locker room down 2-0.
As my color man, Alex Hite, said, "A two goal lead is the most dangerous lead in hockey". USC needs to come out in the 3rd period madder and faster than they have so far this weekend. They need to take control of the game and swing the momentum in their favor, starting with a quick goal to start the period. Defensively, they have done better controlling the breakout and not giving the puck right to the Husky defensemen. However, they still need to control the front of the net and stop UW from getting any second chances on Caravaggio rebounds.
I'll be back after the game with a full postgame recap and analysis.
James
Both teams again came out very physical, and USC was finally awarded their first power play 3 minutes into the period, but the Huskies turned it towards their favor, when Sobiek poked it away from a Trojan defender and went untouched on a breakaway on Freshman goalie Alex Caravaggio. Caravaggio gave it all he had, but to no avail as Sobiek put it past him to power UW to a 1-0 lead. Both teams played back and forth through the middle of the period, but penalty trouble slowed down the Trojan attack yet again, and the Huskies took advantage of yet ANOTHER 5-3, when Carson tipped a Sobiek shot past Caravaggio to send USC to the locker room down 2-0.
As my color man, Alex Hite, said, "A two goal lead is the most dangerous lead in hockey". USC needs to come out in the 3rd period madder and faster than they have so far this weekend. They need to take control of the game and swing the momentum in their favor, starting with a quick goal to start the period. Defensively, they have done better controlling the breakout and not giving the puck right to the Husky defensemen. However, they still need to control the front of the net and stop UW from getting any second chances on Caravaggio rebounds.
I'll be back after the game with a full postgame recap and analysis.
James
USC Trojans vs. UW Huskies: Pac-8 Championship Rematch Game 2-1st Period Analysis
After one here at Anaheim Ice, your USC Trojans have come out a lot stronger than they did last night, keeping the game scoreless 0-0 against a high powered UW Husky offense. Great job by the USC defense to limit the number of shots for UW, clearing out the front of the net and giving Freshman goalie Alex Caravaggio much greater visibility to the points.
Both teams played a very physical and back and forth game, keeping the game close at both ends of the ice. The new first line of Freshman Thomas Waschenfelder, Senior Mitchell Landsinger, and Sophomore Dave Morris did a great job shutting down the Husky first line, one of the most important matchup issues of the game. However, none of the forward lines have been able to capitalize on opportunities presented to them, not taking a lot of shots that they needed to in order to put pressure on Husky goalie Danny Dougan. Look for them to take more shots and crash the net harder going into the next two periods.
The biggest change USC has to make is in the defensive zone. The Trojans need to control the puck more on the breakout, and not allow Husky defenders to collect these errant passes and take shots on Caravaggio. Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio and Senior Assistant Captain Jason Bush are doing a great job taking the puck out themselves rather than throwing it aimlessly around. Let's hope the rest of the Trojan team can follow their lead and run a much more controlled breakout.
I'll be back after the 2nd period with continued in-game analysis.
James
Both teams played a very physical and back and forth game, keeping the game close at both ends of the ice. The new first line of Freshman Thomas Waschenfelder, Senior Mitchell Landsinger, and Sophomore Dave Morris did a great job shutting down the Husky first line, one of the most important matchup issues of the game. However, none of the forward lines have been able to capitalize on opportunities presented to them, not taking a lot of shots that they needed to in order to put pressure on Husky goalie Danny Dougan. Look for them to take more shots and crash the net harder going into the next two periods.
The biggest change USC has to make is in the defensive zone. The Trojans need to control the puck more on the breakout, and not allow Husky defenders to collect these errant passes and take shots on Caravaggio. Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio and Senior Assistant Captain Jason Bush are doing a great job taking the puck out themselves rather than throwing it aimlessly around. Let's hope the rest of the Trojan team can follow their lead and run a much more controlled breakout.
I'll be back after the 2nd period with continued in-game analysis.
James
USC Trojans vs. UW Huskies: Pac-8 Championship Rematch Game 2-Pregame
Welcome back, Ladies and Gentlemen, to Anaheim Ice, where your USC Trojans will try to bounce back from an unfortunate loss last night against the UW Huskies in their first game since last years Pac-8 Championship. The Trojans are hoping to shut down the high powered offense of the Huskies, who are lead by Forwards Jordan Chernesky and Stefan Sobiek. Trojan Freshman goaltender Alex Caravaggio is hoping to bounce back from a great, yet disappointing game last night, and help the Trojans try to find an offensive rhythm.
My key matchup for tonight's game is between the Trojans second line of Freshman Thomas Waschenfelder, Sophomore Dave Morris, and Senior Mitchell Landsinger, against the Husky first line of Sobiek, Chernesky, and Forward Ben Waters. Coach Langille told me before the game that since he has the last change as the home team, he will try to match up his second line with their offensive juggernaut. They seemed to do the best job shutting down that line without getting too many penalties in the process. He will try to match the Trojan third line of Junior Assistant Captain Noah Comisar, Senior Max Szentveri, and Freshman Derek Peters against the Husky second line of Corey James, Phil Hareslak, and Alex Wytaske, giving the Trojan first line of Senior Charlie Mach, Sophomore Beau Selisker, and Freshman James Huebner a chance to develop a rhythm against the UW third and fourth lines.
Defensively, the Trojan blue-liners must continue to stand tall against the UW attack, but also need to a better job clearing out the front of the net. This will allow Caravaggio to see a lot better, helping him rebound from last night's loss. Look for Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio step up tonight and provide a spark for both the USC defense as well as the offense. His rushes up the ice could be the key for a USC victory tonight.
I'll be back after the first with in-game analysis.
James
My key matchup for tonight's game is between the Trojans second line of Freshman Thomas Waschenfelder, Sophomore Dave Morris, and Senior Mitchell Landsinger, against the Husky first line of Sobiek, Chernesky, and Forward Ben Waters. Coach Langille told me before the game that since he has the last change as the home team, he will try to match up his second line with their offensive juggernaut. They seemed to do the best job shutting down that line without getting too many penalties in the process. He will try to match the Trojan third line of Junior Assistant Captain Noah Comisar, Senior Max Szentveri, and Freshman Derek Peters against the Husky second line of Corey James, Phil Hareslak, and Alex Wytaske, giving the Trojan first line of Senior Charlie Mach, Sophomore Beau Selisker, and Freshman James Huebner a chance to develop a rhythm against the UW third and fourth lines.
Defensively, the Trojan blue-liners must continue to stand tall against the UW attack, but also need to a better job clearing out the front of the net. This will allow Caravaggio to see a lot better, helping him rebound from last night's loss. Look for Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio step up tonight and provide a spark for both the USC defense as well as the offense. His rushes up the ice could be the key for a USC victory tonight.
I'll be back after the first with in-game analysis.
James
USC downed by UW in rematch
The Washington Huskies came into Anaheim Ice looking for redemption against USC, and took a first major step towards it, as the Huskies defeated the Trojans 4-1 on Friday night.
Meeting for the first time since last season's dramatic PAC 8 Championship Game where an underdog USC squad defeated UW, both teams looked to solidify their conference records in the final week of conference play, as well as size each other up, ahead of this season's playoffs.
USC is the defending PAC 8 champion and coming off two victories against archrival UCLA. Washington likewise notched two victories against their rivals, top-ranked Oregon, as well as a win against Cal State Fullerton the previous night.
The Huskies host this year's PAC 8 tournament. Currently, UW sits in second place in the PAC 8, with USC right behind in third place.
A relatively quite first period was highlighted by a pair of goals near intermission. USC struck first with a streaking Dave Morris receiving from a Thomas Waschenfelder pass up the middle and putting the puck past Husky netminder Danny Dougan to put the Trojans up 1-0.
However, UW answered ten seconds later, as USC goalie A. Caravaggio left the puck on his exposed flank and UW's Byron Ma (Dan Herda) took advantage, scoring on the open net to tie it up 1-1.
USC entered the 2nd period on a 5-on-4 advantage for the first 3:59, as UW's Jordan Chenersky was assessed a double minor (roughing, 2:00; crosschecking, 2:00) going into the 1st intermission. The Trojans failed to capitalize though, with USC picking up a hooking penalty within the first minute of the period to make it an even 4-on-4 situation.
Midway through the 2nd with both teams at full strength, UW's Daniel Carson (Corey James, Jason Bartlett) punched a shot through heavy traffic and past A. Caravaggio for the Huskies' second goal.
While the Trojans killed off two separate 5-on-3 UW power plays, screens continued to be the main factor as another UW shot by Jeff McClateck (Phil Hamzlek, James) squeezed through traffic with :35 left in the 2nd, and sending the Trojans into the locker room down 3-1.
The 3rd period was riddled with penalties for both teams, but UW put the game away on another screened shot, this time by Ben Walters (Chenersky, Carson) on a power play.
Final score of the game was 4-1 in favor of the Huskies. The teams have their second meeting this weekend on Saturday. The puck drops at Anaheim Ice at 7:30pm.
Other Notes:
- UW's Andrew Johnson sat out for this game, serving a disqualification stemming from the previous night vs. CSUF.
- UW outshot USC 28-20.
- Twenty-six separate penalties were assessed between the two teams; USC's Beau Selisker led the field with 4 minors.
Meeting for the first time since last season's dramatic PAC 8 Championship Game where an underdog USC squad defeated UW, both teams looked to solidify their conference records in the final week of conference play, as well as size each other up, ahead of this season's playoffs.
USC is the defending PAC 8 champion and coming off two victories against archrival UCLA. Washington likewise notched two victories against their rivals, top-ranked Oregon, as well as a win against Cal State Fullerton the previous night.
The Huskies host this year's PAC 8 tournament. Currently, UW sits in second place in the PAC 8, with USC right behind in third place.
A relatively quite first period was highlighted by a pair of goals near intermission. USC struck first with a streaking Dave Morris receiving from a Thomas Waschenfelder pass up the middle and putting the puck past Husky netminder Danny Dougan to put the Trojans up 1-0.
However, UW answered ten seconds later, as USC goalie A. Caravaggio left the puck on his exposed flank and UW's Byron Ma (Dan Herda) took advantage, scoring on the open net to tie it up 1-1.
USC entered the 2nd period on a 5-on-4 advantage for the first 3:59, as UW's Jordan Chenersky was assessed a double minor (roughing, 2:00; crosschecking, 2:00) going into the 1st intermission. The Trojans failed to capitalize though, with USC picking up a hooking penalty within the first minute of the period to make it an even 4-on-4 situation.
Midway through the 2nd with both teams at full strength, UW's Daniel Carson (Corey James, Jason Bartlett) punched a shot through heavy traffic and past A. Caravaggio for the Huskies' second goal.
While the Trojans killed off two separate 5-on-3 UW power plays, screens continued to be the main factor as another UW shot by Jeff McClateck (Phil Hamzlek, James) squeezed through traffic with :35 left in the 2nd, and sending the Trojans into the locker room down 3-1.
The 3rd period was riddled with penalties for both teams, but UW put the game away on another screened shot, this time by Ben Walters (Chenersky, Carson) on a power play.
Final score of the game was 4-1 in favor of the Huskies. The teams have their second meeting this weekend on Saturday. The puck drops at Anaheim Ice at 7:30pm.
Other Notes:
- UW's Andrew Johnson sat out for this game, serving a disqualification stemming from the previous night vs. CSUF.
- UW outshot USC 28-20.
- Twenty-six separate penalties were assessed between the two teams; USC's Beau Selisker led the field with 4 minors.
Friday, January 28, 2011
USC Trojans vs. UW Huskies: Pac-8 Championship Rematch-Postgame
Well, USC doomed themselves again with penalties, allowing UW to take advantage of bad penalties and a lack of rhythm for the Trojans, beating them in game 1 here at Anaheim Ice, 4-1. The Huskies added an insurance goal early in the 3rd to doom the inconsistent Trojans at home.
Washington took advantage of too many bad penalties from the Trojans, scoring their insurance goal on the power play, as Husky defenseman Daniel Carson took a hard shot from the point through a couple of screens past Freshman goalie Alex Caravaggio, putting the Huskies ahead for good. USC, time and time again, shot themselves in the foot taking bad penalty after bad penalty, never giving themselves a chance to get into a rhythm.
My first star of the game goes to Freshman forward Thomas Waschenfelder, who in his first game as a Trojan played with more heart and determination than any other player on the ice. His excellent play gave USC the first lead in the game, and he continued afterwards to put the puck on net and put constant pressure on the Husky defense.
Overall, USC's penalty trouble continues to plague a team that needs to find a rhythm in order to compete in the upcoming Pac-8 tournament. Offensively, the Trojans continue to struggle to put the puck on net, regardless of the number of chances they have. USC continues to try and make the "perfect" play in order to score a goal, instead of wearing down Husky goalie Danny Dougan, who was not challenged very much at all tonight. Defensively, the Trojan defensive corps consisting of Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio, Senior Assistant Captain Jason Bush, Senior Captain Mike Gawlik, Freshman Tom Duffy, Freshman Ryan Manning, and Junior Mike Mowrey, do a great job containing a high powered UW offense, but their problems with the forwards on the break out continues to allow teams more chances on Caravaggio than necessary.
We'll be back tomorrow night with game 2 of this Pac-8 Championship rematch here at Anaheim Ice, 7:30 start.
James
Washington took advantage of too many bad penalties from the Trojans, scoring their insurance goal on the power play, as Husky defenseman Daniel Carson took a hard shot from the point through a couple of screens past Freshman goalie Alex Caravaggio, putting the Huskies ahead for good. USC, time and time again, shot themselves in the foot taking bad penalty after bad penalty, never giving themselves a chance to get into a rhythm.
My first star of the game goes to Freshman forward Thomas Waschenfelder, who in his first game as a Trojan played with more heart and determination than any other player on the ice. His excellent play gave USC the first lead in the game, and he continued afterwards to put the puck on net and put constant pressure on the Husky defense.
Overall, USC's penalty trouble continues to plague a team that needs to find a rhythm in order to compete in the upcoming Pac-8 tournament. Offensively, the Trojans continue to struggle to put the puck on net, regardless of the number of chances they have. USC continues to try and make the "perfect" play in order to score a goal, instead of wearing down Husky goalie Danny Dougan, who was not challenged very much at all tonight. Defensively, the Trojan defensive corps consisting of Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio, Senior Assistant Captain Jason Bush, Senior Captain Mike Gawlik, Freshman Tom Duffy, Freshman Ryan Manning, and Junior Mike Mowrey, do a great job containing a high powered UW offense, but their problems with the forwards on the break out continues to allow teams more chances on Caravaggio than necessary.
We'll be back tomorrow night with game 2 of this Pac-8 Championship rematch here at Anaheim Ice, 7:30 start.
James
USC Trojans vs. UW Huskies: Pac-8 Championship Rematch-2nd Period Analysis
USC came out in this period looking to capitalize on a double minor by UW at the end of the first period, but it was their own penalties that did them in this period, allowing the Huskies to score two unanswered goals. Any momentum they got was quickly erased by unfortunate penalties, putting them down 3-1 after 2.
USC came out into the period on the power play, thanks to a 4 minute double minor from Husky Jordan Chernesky, but almost immediately USC was in the box themselves, taking 2 minutes out of their power play and not allowing them to get into a rhythm. The Huskies struck very soon after Chernesky came out of the box, when a Daniel Carson shot got through a lot of traffic and past Freshman goalie Alex Caravaggio. USC held on even though they faced multiple penalty kill situations, including two separate 5-3's. The Huskies struck again with 35 seconds remaining in the period after Caravaggio lost sight of a Washington shot, sending the Trojans to the locker room down 3-1.
USC again is having a lot of trouble with penalties and cannot get into a rhythm. One major consequence of that is their inability to break the puck out of their own zone, giving UW more chances to put the puck on Caravaggio. Look for the defense, especially Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio, Senior Assistant Captain Jason Bush, Senior Captain Mike Gawlik, and Freshman Tom Duffy to take the puck out themselves if the Trojan forwards cannot get it out.
I'll be back after the game with my postgame analysis.
James
USC Trojans vs. UW Huskies: PAC 8 Championship Rematch-1st Period Analysis
Well Ladies and Gentlemen it was a back and forth period here at Anaheim Ice with both teams coming out sluggish. USC managed to keep it close with some key saves from Freshman goalie Alex Caravaggio, and both teams have headed into the locker room tied up at 1-1
USC struck first after 15 minutes of back and forth play from both teams. Incoming Freshman Thomas Waschenfelder made a great run into the Husky end, before making a tape-to-tape to Sophomore Dave Morris in front of the net, who buried it past UW goalie Danny Dougan. Unfortunately for USC, they couldn't hang on to the lead, as 10 seconds later, Caravaggio misplayed a puck, allowing it to squirt out in front of the net with him way out of position. Husky Captain Byron Ma buried it into the wide open net, tying up the score at 1-1.
USC needs to come out this period a lot stronger than they did last period, and capitalize on the double minor that Husky leading scorer Jordan Chernesky took with 1 second remaining in the period. The first line of Senior Charlie Mach, Freshman James Huebner, and Sophomore Beau Selisker need to develop an offensive rhythm and continue putting pucks on net. The second line of Waschenfelder, Morris, and Senior Mitchell Landsinger must continue to produce in the Husky zone if USC wants to win this game.
I'll be back with my 2nd period analysis.
James
USC struck first after 15 minutes of back and forth play from both teams. Incoming Freshman Thomas Waschenfelder made a great run into the Husky end, before making a tape-to-tape to Sophomore Dave Morris in front of the net, who buried it past UW goalie Danny Dougan. Unfortunately for USC, they couldn't hang on to the lead, as 10 seconds later, Caravaggio misplayed a puck, allowing it to squirt out in front of the net with him way out of position. Husky Captain Byron Ma buried it into the wide open net, tying up the score at 1-1.
USC needs to come out this period a lot stronger than they did last period, and capitalize on the double minor that Husky leading scorer Jordan Chernesky took with 1 second remaining in the period. The first line of Senior Charlie Mach, Freshman James Huebner, and Sophomore Beau Selisker need to develop an offensive rhythm and continue putting pucks on net. The second line of Waschenfelder, Morris, and Senior Mitchell Landsinger must continue to produce in the Husky zone if USC wants to win this game.
I'll be back with my 2nd period analysis.
James
USC Trojans vs. UW Huskies: Pac-8 Championship Rematch Pregame
Welcome back Ladies and Gentlemen! After a very strong weekend against ucla, your Trojans are hoping to keep the momentum rolling against the team they beat last year for the Pac-8 title: The University of Washington Huskies. UW is coming off of a big win last night against CSUF, 4-1, and are now ranked 15th in the west. The Huskies are a very young team, with 12 underclassmen and only 5 seniors. They are led by Junior forward Jordan Chernesky and Senior forward Stefan Sobiek, who was the Pac-8 leading scorer two years ago.
The Trojans counter with Freshman goaltender Alex Caravaggio, who is coming off three straight spectacular starts, including two incredible victories over ucla. Tonight's lineup is a lot different than previous games, with newcomer Freshman Thomas Waschenfelder centering the second line. The lineup tonight looks like:
1: Selisker - Mach - Huebner
2: Morris - Waschenfelder - Landsinger
3: Comisar - Szentveri - Peters
4: Bieber - Silverman - Ernst
D: Gawlik - Duffy
D: Bush - Manning
D: D. Caravaggio - Mowrey
G: A. Caravaggio
In order for USC to be competitive in this game, they need to do 3 important things. First, the Caravaggio brothers need to continue their dominating play in the defensive zone, with Dante playing as USC's top defenseman, and Alex playing spectacularly in net. Second, the Trojan first line of Senior Charlie Mach, Freshman James Huebner, and Sophomore Beau Selisker need to capitlize on their offensive chances and lead USC's offensive attack. Finally, in their game Saturday against ucla, the Trojans had a lot of trouble staying out of the penalty box, preventing them from generating any sort of rhythm in the offensive zone.
I'll be back after the first period with a full analysis
James
The Trojans counter with Freshman goaltender Alex Caravaggio, who is coming off three straight spectacular starts, including two incredible victories over ucla. Tonight's lineup is a lot different than previous games, with newcomer Freshman Thomas Waschenfelder centering the second line. The lineup tonight looks like:
1: Selisker - Mach - Huebner
2: Morris - Waschenfelder - Landsinger
3: Comisar - Szentveri - Peters
4: Bieber - Silverman - Ernst
D: Gawlik - Duffy
D: Bush - Manning
D: D. Caravaggio - Mowrey
G: A. Caravaggio
In order for USC to be competitive in this game, they need to do 3 important things. First, the Caravaggio brothers need to continue their dominating play in the defensive zone, with Dante playing as USC's top defenseman, and Alex playing spectacularly in net. Second, the Trojan first line of Senior Charlie Mach, Freshman James Huebner, and Sophomore Beau Selisker need to capitlize on their offensive chances and lead USC's offensive attack. Finally, in their game Saturday against ucla, the Trojans had a lot of trouble staying out of the penalty box, preventing them from generating any sort of rhythm in the offensive zone.
I'll be back after the first period with a full analysis
James
Sunday, January 23, 2011
USC Ice Hockey completes season sweep of UCLA
The Trojans defeat the Bruins 4-3 (OT), 3-2 (SO) in a pair of wild finishes
By Johnny Nguyen
January 23, 2011
ANAHEIM, Calif. – The USC men’s ice hockey team completed their domination over UCLA this season by winning a pair of matches over the weekend, going into overtime in both games, with one going to a shootout.
Previously, USC won both of the previous meetings earlier this season, 5-4 and 4-3.
On Friday, the Trojans drove to the Bruins’ home rink in the Valley for an early evening game. The Bruins took advantage of Trojan miscues to score two power play goals and go into the first intermission up 2-1, even though they were outshot by USC 16-11. Mark Yost (Jon Lee) and Michael Carder (Charlie Linehan) scored for UCLA; Noah Comisar (Mitchell Landsinger) notched one for USC.
The Trojans rebounded from their quiet first period performance and kept the puck in the Bruins’ zone for the majority of the second period, outshooting UCLA 13-8 and capitalizing with 2:05 left in the period when Landsinger received a quick pass from Comisar and sniped it past Bruin goalie Al Ricciardelli, tying the game at 2-2.
The third period was a defensive battle as each side continued to repel each other’s attacks. However at the 7:14 mark, USC captain Mike Gawlik (Jason Bush) fired a slow shot from the blue line through a screen of players, which trickled in under Ricciardelli and put the Trojans up 3-2.
At one point, the Trojans successfully killed off a 5-3 Bruin power play that lasted 1:52, but quickly found themselves on another penalty kill and paid the price, with Carder (Lee, Yost) equalizing the score with a one-timer past USC goalie Alex Caravaggio at the 6:22 mark.
USC had an opportunity to close out the game when Carder picked up a tripping penalty with 0:28 remaining, but only managed two shots on goal as the period expired.
In the extra overtime period, it remained a four-on-three man advantage for USC as Carder served the remaining time for his penalty. American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) rules state that the teams play four-on-four in five minutes of sudden-death overtime.
The Trojans overpowered the Bruins in overtime, keeping the puck in the offensive zone and after several shots turned away by Ricciardelli, USC’s Dante Caravaggio (unassisted) rocketed a blue-line shot past the UCLA netminder at 1:03, winning the game for the Trojans and clinching the 2011 Crosstown Cup three games to none.
USC maintains a 13-3 domination over UCLA in the Cup’s sixteen-year history, though the Bruins won the Crosstown rivalry last season, three games to two.
On Saturday, the Game Four of the series shifted to the Trojans’ home rink, The Rinks – Anaheim ICE. While USC captured the Crosstown Cup, the game remained relevant as both teams looked to secure their invitation to the PAC 8 Conference Tournament, held this season in Seattle, WA.
USC currently holds third place in the conference; UCLA sits just out of the playoff picture in fifth place.
In the first period, USC’s Caravaggio and UCLA’s Ricciardelli lead the way to a 0-0 deadlock, with the teams picking up two penalties each along the way, including a four-minute double-minor for highsticking by USC’s Max Ernst on Bruin Ashton Christian’s neck. Christian recovered quickly, immediately taking the next faceoff.
The second period saw more aggressive play out of both teams. Three players on each side picked up penalties, including five-minute major penalty and game misconduct against USC rookie James Huebner for a violent hit 0:30 into the frame, resulting in his ejection from the game.
However, USC turned the tables on the previous night and capitalized on their power play situations. Dave Morris (Landsinger, Peter Rugo) broke the impasse 8:41 into the period, scoring on a severe off-angle to take a 1-0 lead, but at even strength UCLA quickly answered back 0:13 later, with Brandon Wu (Christian, Carder) putting in the tying goal off an error by A. Caravaggio behind his net.
Still in the second period, the Trojans exploited an interference call against UCLA’s Carder, as Landsinger (Morris, Ryan Manning) punched in a shot with 2:25 remaining, and sending the Trojans into the locker room with a 3-2 lead after two.
The third period started quietly, but with the Trojans on a penalty kill, the Bruins scored the equalizer with 5:40 remaining and sending the game into the extra session.
The overtime period saw plenty of action but no goals, as both netminders turned away several shots and locked out the opposing teams, sending the game into a decisive five-man shootout.
During the shootout, the goalies again turned in solid performances in the one-on-one situations, but USC’s Morris found the chink in Ricciardelli’s armor, scoring the only shootout goal for either team, and locking up the victory for USC by the final score of 3-2, as the Bruins could not penetrate A. Caravaggio’s staunch goaltending.
In a rematch of last season’s PAC 8 championship game, USC hosts another PAC 8 foe, Washington, this weekend on Friday and Saturday, January 28-29, in Anaheim. The second-place Huskies are themselves coming off a successful weekend, sweeping conference leader Oregon in Eugene.
Other Notes:
- UCLA assistant coach Josh Hoffman was assessed a match penalty in Friday’s game for throwing a stick onto the ice at the referee after the game was concluded; he was given a one-game suspension by the PAC 8 Conference, which banned him from Saturday night’s matchup.
- USC’s James Huebner, ejected from Saturday’s game, was not assessed a game disqualification, which would have been an automatic one-game suspension.
- Each of the four games in this season’s Crosstown Cup series was decided by a single goal.
- While the Crosstown Cups series is typically best-of-five, this season’s Game Five, slated to be hosted by UCLA, was canceled due to the PAC 8's moving of the playoff tournament one week ahead than was originally scheduled without notification to any California team, affecting games for both the USC-UCLA and Cal-Stanford series. USC additionally had to cancel a game against San Diego State.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
USC Trojans vs. ucla Bruins-Crosstown Cup Game 4 Postgame
Sorry everyone for a lack of a 2nd period analysis, but I was having a lovely chat with GM Mark Wilbur, but the real action didn't happen until the end of the game, when USC and ucla took a 2-2 game into overtime for the second straight night. Nothing happened in the overtime period, so USC went to their first shootout of the year. Back and forth both teams went as both goalies, Freshman Alex Caravaggio of USC and Al Ricciardelli of ucla, made save after save trying to bring their team the victory. Unfortunately for ucla, Sophomore Dave Morris was able to slip one through the 5-hole of Ricciardelli, sealing the victory for USC.
The 2nd period was a back and forth affair, starting with a 5 minute major and game misconduct for Freshman James Huebner 30 seconds into the period. USC did a great job killing off the penalty, and ucla was unable to capitalize on the opportunity. USC struck first when Morris took a bad-angle shot through a very small hole and past Ricciardelli and into the net. ucla struck back quickly when Caravaggio, trying to clear the puck out from behind the net, gave the puck to Michael Carder, whose shot was redirected past a sliding Caravaggio and into the net. USC finished off the period with another huge goal from Junior Assistant Captain Noah Comisar, sliding one past Ricciardelli. The 3rd period remained scoreless until 7 minutes left, when ucla, on another extended power play, snuck one by Caravaggio to even the score. Caravaggio saved shots from Michael Carder, Mark Yost, Ashton Christian, Charlie Linehan, and Nick Panzica, while Ricciardelli stopped shots from Senior Charlie Mach, Sophomore Beau Selisker, before allowing the goal from Morris. Another save on Freshman Tom Duffy allowed ucla another chance, but to no avail.
The 2nd period was a back and forth affair, starting with a 5 minute major and game misconduct for Freshman James Huebner 30 seconds into the period. USC did a great job killing off the penalty, and ucla was unable to capitalize on the opportunity. USC struck first when Morris took a bad-angle shot through a very small hole and past Ricciardelli and into the net. ucla struck back quickly when Caravaggio, trying to clear the puck out from behind the net, gave the puck to Michael Carder, whose shot was redirected past a sliding Caravaggio and into the net. USC finished off the period with another huge goal from Junior Assistant Captain Noah Comisar, sliding one past Ricciardelli. The 3rd period remained scoreless until 7 minutes left, when ucla, on another extended power play, snuck one by Caravaggio to even the score. Caravaggio saved shots from Michael Carder, Mark Yost, Ashton Christian, Charlie Linehan, and Nick Panzica, while Ricciardelli stopped shots from Senior Charlie Mach, Sophomore Beau Selisker, before allowing the goal from Morris. Another save on Freshman Tom Duffy allowed ucla another chance, but to no avail.
Overtime was exciting as both teams had huge chances to score, but both goalies standing on their heads. Finally, the overtime period ended, and a shootout was needed to decide the postseason fate of both teams.
My first star of the game is of course, Freshman Alex Caravaggio. Time and time again he has proven to the world that he is the best goalie in the Pac-8, and may be one of the best goalies in the west. Save after save he makes just seems to make him stronger, refusing to get tired out as he continues to stand on his head for the Trojans. The future of USC hockey seems to be in great hands.
My final analysis of the game rests solely on the number of bad penalties taken by USC. They spent way too much time in the box, and made it very difficult to keep up any momentum they would get. That allowed ucla to stick around for the whole game, even after USC was outplaying them in all aspects of the game. Great job by all six defensemen, Freshman Tom Duffy, Senior Captain Mike Gawlik, Senior Assistant Captain Jason Bush, Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio, Junior Mike Mowrey, and Freshman Ryan Manning. Look for the team to build on their great play heading into next week's huge showdown with Washington, a rematch of last year's Pac-8 Championship game.
See you all next week here in Anaheim!
James
My first star of the game is of course, Freshman Alex Caravaggio. Time and time again he has proven to the world that he is the best goalie in the Pac-8, and may be one of the best goalies in the west. Save after save he makes just seems to make him stronger, refusing to get tired out as he continues to stand on his head for the Trojans. The future of USC hockey seems to be in great hands.
My final analysis of the game rests solely on the number of bad penalties taken by USC. They spent way too much time in the box, and made it very difficult to keep up any momentum they would get. That allowed ucla to stick around for the whole game, even after USC was outplaying them in all aspects of the game. Great job by all six defensemen, Freshman Tom Duffy, Senior Captain Mike Gawlik, Senior Assistant Captain Jason Bush, Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio, Junior Mike Mowrey, and Freshman Ryan Manning. Look for the team to build on their great play heading into next week's huge showdown with Washington, a rematch of last year's Pac-8 Championship game.
See you all next week here in Anaheim!
James
USC Trojans vs. ucla Bruins-Crosstown Cup Game 4 1st Period Analysis
Well Ladies and Gentlemen, both USC and ucla had plenty of opportunities to take control of the game, but both goalies, Freshman Alex Caravaggio of USC and Al Ricciardelli of ucla, have played unbelievable to keep the game tied at 0-0.
Both teams had plenty of chances in the period, with ucla having a very extended powerplay right in the middle of the period, including one minute of a 5-3, but Caravaggio stood on his head time and time again to keep ucla off the board, including two great saves against uncovered Bruins. On the other side, a couple of great plays by the first line of Senior Charlie Mach, Freshman James Huebner, and Sophomore Beau Selisker, gave USC some great chances in front of the ucla net, but still have trouble capitalizing. Look for the three of them to continue to work on their rhythm going into this second period.
On the other side of the ice, as Mr. McClanathan said at the end of the period, USC needs to do a better job bottling up Sophomore Michael Carder, who has emerged as the primary threat on the ucla offense after the graduation of Daniel Vayntner. Look for the Trojan defensemen to play the body on him and stop him from making the end to end runs he has been making.
I'll be back after the second period with more analysis.
James
Both teams had plenty of chances in the period, with ucla having a very extended powerplay right in the middle of the period, including one minute of a 5-3, but Caravaggio stood on his head time and time again to keep ucla off the board, including two great saves against uncovered Bruins. On the other side, a couple of great plays by the first line of Senior Charlie Mach, Freshman James Huebner, and Sophomore Beau Selisker, gave USC some great chances in front of the ucla net, but still have trouble capitalizing. Look for the three of them to continue to work on their rhythm going into this second period.
On the other side of the ice, as Mr. McClanathan said at the end of the period, USC needs to do a better job bottling up Sophomore Michael Carder, who has emerged as the primary threat on the ucla offense after the graduation of Daniel Vayntner. Look for the Trojan defensemen to play the body on him and stop him from making the end to end runs he has been making.
I'll be back after the second period with more analysis.
James
USC Trojans vs. ucla Bruins-Crosstown Cup Game 4 Pregame
Welcome Ladies and Gentlemen to tonight's matchup between the bitter Crosstown rivals, USC and ucla. Last night USC took a thrilling overtime victory in game 3 of this annual series, securing the Crosstown Cup once again would return to Downtown. Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio netted the game winner in what was the most thrilling matchup between the two teams this season. Yet, what seems like a somewhat meaningless game actually is very important for both teams, for a USC victory secures their place in February's Pac-8 tournament in Seattle, and will end ucla's hope of a return trip to the tournament.
Tonight's key matchup is between the Trojan's first line of Sophomore Beau Selisker, Senior Charlie Mach, and Freshman James Huebner, against the ucla goalie Al Ricciardelli. Last night, Ricciardelli showed great improvement from his previous two performances against USC, doing a much better job with his rebound control to shut down the aggressive play of the first line. Look for them to take more shots to try and tire Ricciardelli out early.
I'll be back with my first period analysis of this crucial game.
James
Tonight's key matchup is between the Trojan's first line of Sophomore Beau Selisker, Senior Charlie Mach, and Freshman James Huebner, against the ucla goalie Al Ricciardelli. Last night, Ricciardelli showed great improvement from his previous two performances against USC, doing a much better job with his rebound control to shut down the aggressive play of the first line. Look for them to take more shots to try and tire Ricciardelli out early.
I'll be back with my first period analysis of this crucial game.
James
Friday, January 21, 2011
USC Trojans vs. UCLA Bruins-Crosstown Cup Game 3 Postgame Analysis
Well Ladies and Gentlemen, it was a hard fought game on both sides of the ice, but it was an overtime goal from Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio with 3:37 remaining in overtime that sealed the deal for the Trojans, as USC has taken back the Crosstown Cup from ucla. USC was victorious 4-3 in the game, with goals from Caravaggio, Landsinger, Gawlik, and Comisar.
The 3rd period was a messy period for both teams, with USC squandering some great opportunities in their own zone and ucla squandering an extended 5-3. The Trojans started off strong in the period with a goal by Senior Captain Mike Gawlik, whose weak slapshot slid through a very crucial screen and past Bruins netminding Al Ricciardelli. The Bruins struck back though, after squandering a 5-3 they got another chance with a bad penalty by Freshman Peter Rugo. Michael Carder fired a one-timer past Freshman Alex Caravaggio, tying up the score 3-3. Yet, with 28 seconds left, USC got a powerplay, but only took 2 shots as the period ended. But in overtime, USC began to find their shooting touch, and after a couple of great saves, Caravaggio sniped one through a screen to take the Crosstown Cup back.
USC played an up and down game overall, with every line having their good moments and their weak moments. The first line of Freshman James Huebner, Sophomore Beau Selisker, and Senior Charlie Mach really need to get themselves to a place where they can take a lot more shots and have a much larger impact offensively.
My first star of the game is Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio, who in his second game back showed everybody why he is the Trojans star defender. Play after play he put himself in a position to succeed and followed through with every play. He is the spark the Trojans needed after the first semester to really power them going into the post-season.
I'll be back tomorrow night for Game 4 at 7:15 in Anaheim!
James
The 3rd period was a messy period for both teams, with USC squandering some great opportunities in their own zone and ucla squandering an extended 5-3. The Trojans started off strong in the period with a goal by Senior Captain Mike Gawlik, whose weak slapshot slid through a very crucial screen and past Bruins netminding Al Ricciardelli. The Bruins struck back though, after squandering a 5-3 they got another chance with a bad penalty by Freshman Peter Rugo. Michael Carder fired a one-timer past Freshman Alex Caravaggio, tying up the score 3-3. Yet, with 28 seconds left, USC got a powerplay, but only took 2 shots as the period ended. But in overtime, USC began to find their shooting touch, and after a couple of great saves, Caravaggio sniped one through a screen to take the Crosstown Cup back.
USC played an up and down game overall, with every line having their good moments and their weak moments. The first line of Freshman James Huebner, Sophomore Beau Selisker, and Senior Charlie Mach really need to get themselves to a place where they can take a lot more shots and have a much larger impact offensively.
My first star of the game is Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio, who in his second game back showed everybody why he is the Trojans star defender. Play after play he put himself in a position to succeed and followed through with every play. He is the spark the Trojans needed after the first semester to really power them going into the post-season.
I'll be back tomorrow night for Game 4 at 7:15 in Anaheim!
James
USC Trojans vs. UCLA Bruins-Crosstown Cup Game 3 2nd Period Analysis
I said after the first that USC needed to rebound in this second period if they wanted to stay in this game, and they did exactly that, playing most of the period in the ucla zone. Bruins goalie Al Ricciardelli made a couple of great saves to keep ucla in the game after 2 periods, with the game now tied 2-2
USC did a great job coming out in the period to keep the puck in the ucla zone for most of the period. The Trojans took shot after shot on Ricciardelli but he has improved drastically on his rebound control, helping to control the game for the Bruins. Finally, with 2 minutes remaining in the period, Junior Assistant Captain Noah Comisar made a great play to get the puck into the Bruin zone, but after seeing he didn't have a good shot, made an excellent pass to Senior Mitchell Landsinger, who sniped one past Ricciardelli to even the score.
USC needs to continue to build on the momentum they gained during the end of that period and come out even harder against a clearly gassed ucla squad. The first line of Senior Charlie Mach, Sophomore Beau Selisker, and Freshman James Huebner need to find a rhythm in order for them to make a much stronger impact on the game. The second line of Landsinger, Comisar, and Sophomore Dave Morris have done a great job in the offensive zone, and look for them to step it up here in the 3rd period.
Look for my postgame analysis here after the game.
James
USC did a great job coming out in the period to keep the puck in the ucla zone for most of the period. The Trojans took shot after shot on Ricciardelli but he has improved drastically on his rebound control, helping to control the game for the Bruins. Finally, with 2 minutes remaining in the period, Junior Assistant Captain Noah Comisar made a great play to get the puck into the Bruin zone, but after seeing he didn't have a good shot, made an excellent pass to Senior Mitchell Landsinger, who sniped one past Ricciardelli to even the score.
USC needs to continue to build on the momentum they gained during the end of that period and come out even harder against a clearly gassed ucla squad. The first line of Senior Charlie Mach, Sophomore Beau Selisker, and Freshman James Huebner need to find a rhythm in order for them to make a much stronger impact on the game. The second line of Landsinger, Comisar, and Sophomore Dave Morris have done a great job in the offensive zone, and look for them to step it up here in the 3rd period.
Look for my postgame analysis here after the game.
James
USC Trojans vs. UCLA Bruins-Crosstown Cup Game 3 1st Period Analysis
USC came out in this game against a fairly weak ucla squad hoping to build on their strong outing against Long Beach State last weekend. Unfortunately, they fell very flat, falling into a 2-1 hole early here in Panorama City. The story of this game was supposed to be the introduction of two new USC players, Freshman James Huebner and Freshman Peter Rugo, who were hoping to provide a spark for a very weak USC offense. Unfortunately, they haven't had too much of an impact yet.
Both ucla goals came on the power play after two questionable calls against the Trojans. Mark Yost made a great shot for ucla as he was hit, throwing a fluttering puck through traffic past Freshman Alex Caravaggio. USC responded quickly though as Sophomore Dave Morris tipped a Comisar pass from behind the net past ucla goalie Al Ricciardelli. But USC was given a second questionable penalty and Sophomore Michael Carder rifled a shot past Caravaggio to take the 2-1 lead.
USC needs to come out a lot stronger here if they want to dominate as they should against ucla. Missed plays by all four lines cost the Trojans in the first period, and that trend cannot continue if they want to take home the Crosstown Cup tonight.
I'll be back after the second period with more in-game analysis
James
Both ucla goals came on the power play after two questionable calls against the Trojans. Mark Yost made a great shot for ucla as he was hit, throwing a fluttering puck through traffic past Freshman Alex Caravaggio. USC responded quickly though as Sophomore Dave Morris tipped a Comisar pass from behind the net past ucla goalie Al Ricciardelli. But USC was given a second questionable penalty and Sophomore Michael Carder rifled a shot past Caravaggio to take the 2-1 lead.
USC needs to come out a lot stronger here if they want to dominate as they should against ucla. Missed plays by all four lines cost the Trojans in the first period, and that trend cannot continue if they want to take home the Crosstown Cup tonight.
I'll be back after the second period with more in-game analysis
James
Saturday, January 15, 2011
USC Trojans vs. CSULB 49ers Game #1 - Postgame
Well Ladies and Gentlemen, after a very hard fought game here in Long Beach, USC ends up with the loss at Cal State Long Beach 3-1.
The third period was scoreless until 53 seconds left in the game when 49ers Freshman Taylor Abramson came up with a lucky play where two USC players took each other out, clearing the way for the empty netter.
Overall, USC played fairly strong to start the semester, keeping the game close throughout. Strong defensive efforts from Junior Dante Caravaggio, Freshman Tom Duffy, Senior Mike Gawlik, and Senior Jason Bush led the way for the Trojans. Yet, a lack of offensive production, with the Trojans only managing 17 shots in the whole game, ended up spelling doom for USC. There were flashes of brilliance, especially from the first line of Senior Charlie Mach, Junior Noah Comisar, and Sophomore Beau Selisker, which hopefully will lead to a much stronger game next week against ucla.
USC's star of the game is without a doubt Freshman Alex Caravaggio, who time and time again came up with enormous saves to keep the Trojans in the game, ending the game with 55 saves on 56 shots, with only letting in one 49ers goal, with the Selisker own goal and the empty netter giving the difference. His play gives the Trojans a lot of hope looking towards the future, and he seems to only get better as the year progresses. Look for him to lead this Trojan team throughout the rest of the season and into the postseason.
Next week USC will play their second home and home with the much maligned ucla bruins. Having already taken the first two in the five-game Crosstown Cup series, USC hopes to squash any hope for ucla to make a comeback on Friday night in Panorama City at 5:30 PST, and to present the Cup to their fans on Saturday night at Anaheim Ice, 7:15pm.
James
The third period was scoreless until 53 seconds left in the game when 49ers Freshman Taylor Abramson came up with a lucky play where two USC players took each other out, clearing the way for the empty netter.
Overall, USC played fairly strong to start the semester, keeping the game close throughout. Strong defensive efforts from Junior Dante Caravaggio, Freshman Tom Duffy, Senior Mike Gawlik, and Senior Jason Bush led the way for the Trojans. Yet, a lack of offensive production, with the Trojans only managing 17 shots in the whole game, ended up spelling doom for USC. There were flashes of brilliance, especially from the first line of Senior Charlie Mach, Junior Noah Comisar, and Sophomore Beau Selisker, which hopefully will lead to a much stronger game next week against ucla.
USC's star of the game is without a doubt Freshman Alex Caravaggio, who time and time again came up with enormous saves to keep the Trojans in the game, ending the game with 55 saves on 56 shots, with only letting in one 49ers goal, with the Selisker own goal and the empty netter giving the difference. His play gives the Trojans a lot of hope looking towards the future, and he seems to only get better as the year progresses. Look for him to lead this Trojan team throughout the rest of the season and into the postseason.
Next week USC will play their second home and home with the much maligned ucla bruins. Having already taken the first two in the five-game Crosstown Cup series, USC hopes to squash any hope for ucla to make a comeback on Friday night in Panorama City at 5:30 PST, and to present the Cup to their fans on Saturday night at Anaheim Ice, 7:15pm.
James
USC Trojans vs. CSULB 49ers Game #1 - 2nd Period Analysis
Well Ladies and Gentlemen, after 2 periods of play here in Lakewood, Long Beach holds a slim lead over the Trojans 2-1, but really, the Trojans have scored two goals.
The lone goal of the period came early, when Trojan Sophomore forward Beau Selisker, trying to make a pass behind the net, instead accidentally fired it directly into the Trojan net. The goal was credited to 49ers Senior Sean Hoang, who extends his points lead for the 49ers.
Overall, this has been a very sloppy game for both teams. USC is only in this game because of the unbelievable play of Freshman standout goalie Alex Caravaggio. So far in the game, he has made 34 saves, including 21 in the 2nd period alone. USC is really having trouble putting the puck on net, managing only 13 shots through these two periods. In particular, the Trojans second line of Senior Mitchell Landsinger, Sophomore Dave Morris, and Freshman Sam Silverman, is really having trouble performing, losing a lot of races to the puck and having problems breaking the puck out of the zone. One bright spot for the Trojans has been the very physical play of the 4th line: consisting of Grad Student Justin Bieber, Junior Elliot Dawson, and Sophomore Sherwood Egbert. The 49ers have been unable to solve Caravaggio and lets hope the Trojans can keep it that way while generating a lot more offense.
In order for the Trojans to win this game, they need to win more foot races, keep the puck out of their zone, and focus on their fundamentals, making smart, strong passes, and taking a lot more shots. I'll be back after the 3rd period with my post game thoughts.
James
The lone goal of the period came early, when Trojan Sophomore forward Beau Selisker, trying to make a pass behind the net, instead accidentally fired it directly into the Trojan net. The goal was credited to 49ers Senior Sean Hoang, who extends his points lead for the 49ers.
Overall, this has been a very sloppy game for both teams. USC is only in this game because of the unbelievable play of Freshman standout goalie Alex Caravaggio. So far in the game, he has made 34 saves, including 21 in the 2nd period alone. USC is really having trouble putting the puck on net, managing only 13 shots through these two periods. In particular, the Trojans second line of Senior Mitchell Landsinger, Sophomore Dave Morris, and Freshman Sam Silverman, is really having trouble performing, losing a lot of races to the puck and having problems breaking the puck out of the zone. One bright spot for the Trojans has been the very physical play of the 4th line: consisting of Grad Student Justin Bieber, Junior Elliot Dawson, and Sophomore Sherwood Egbert. The 49ers have been unable to solve Caravaggio and lets hope the Trojans can keep it that way while generating a lot more offense.
In order for the Trojans to win this game, they need to win more foot races, keep the puck out of their zone, and focus on their fundamentals, making smart, strong passes, and taking a lot more shots. I'll be back after the 3rd period with my post game thoughts.
James
USC Trojans vs. CSULB 49ers Game #1 - 1st Period Analysis
After 1 period of play, USC and Long Beach State are tied at 1-1 at what looks to be a dogfight between the Trojans and the 49ers.
USC came out strong to start the period, skating hard and making good, smart plays with the puck. Unfortunately, they have been struggling all season with clearing out in front of the net, and the 49ers exploited that early. #6 Matt Rushdin put in the first goal of the game from the slot through a very crowded front of the net, giving Long Beach State the early lead. USC struck back fairly quickly though as Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio, in his first game of the season after having ACL surgery over the summer, put away a wide open rebound over a sprawling 49ers goalie, tying the game up, where it stayed for the rest of the period.
Overall, the Trojans have played much better than Long Beach expected them to, but according to Assistant Coach Brandon Krikorian, they were still playing lazy. There were many examples of players losing races to the puck because they weren't moving their feet, and a lack of physicality in front of the net caused LBSU's first goal. However, it does appear that last night's destruction of Texas has given Long Beach a certain cockiness that showed a great deal in the first period, and USC took advantage of their low expectations, bringing some heat to the 49ers. Look for both teams to pick it up in the next period, but USC must strike first if they want to stay in this game. Long Beach is too good of a team to stay cocky for too long of a time. The top 2 lines for the Trojans must step it up, for they are getting more rest than they have in previous games now the Coach Langille is playing all 4 lines.
Live updates are available on the USC forum page as the game progresses, and I will be back after the second period.
James
USC came out strong to start the period, skating hard and making good, smart plays with the puck. Unfortunately, they have been struggling all season with clearing out in front of the net, and the 49ers exploited that early. #6 Matt Rushdin put in the first goal of the game from the slot through a very crowded front of the net, giving Long Beach State the early lead. USC struck back fairly quickly though as Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio, in his first game of the season after having ACL surgery over the summer, put away a wide open rebound over a sprawling 49ers goalie, tying the game up, where it stayed for the rest of the period.
Overall, the Trojans have played much better than Long Beach expected them to, but according to Assistant Coach Brandon Krikorian, they were still playing lazy. There were many examples of players losing races to the puck because they weren't moving their feet, and a lack of physicality in front of the net caused LBSU's first goal. However, it does appear that last night's destruction of Texas has given Long Beach a certain cockiness that showed a great deal in the first period, and USC took advantage of their low expectations, bringing some heat to the 49ers. Look for both teams to pick it up in the next period, but USC must strike first if they want to stay in this game. Long Beach is too good of a team to stay cocky for too long of a time. The top 2 lines for the Trojans must step it up, for they are getting more rest than they have in previous games now the Coach Langille is playing all 4 lines.
Live updates are available on the USC forum page as the game progresses, and I will be back after the second period.
James
USC Trojans vs. CSULB 49ers Game #1 - Pregame
Welcome Ladies and Gentlemen!
James Anderson here giving you live blog updates on tonight's game between USC and a very talented Long Beach State team!
Tonight's matchup for the Trojans features the return of Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio from offseason knee surgery. His presence on the blue line gives our defense the upgrade it needs to protect Freshman standout goalie Alex Caravaggio, who has become the undisputed since the graduation of Senior goalie Zack Keith. USC's starting lineup is:
C - Charlie Mach
RW - Noah Comisar
LW - Beau Selisker
D - Mike Gawlik
D - Tom Duffy
G - Alex Caravaggio
SC is going up against a very talented and deep Long Beach State team, who last night dismantled the visiting Texas Longhorns 15-3. Ranked 10th in the West, LBSU is lead by Senior Sean Hoang and Senior Scott Byrum. Look for the revamped Trojans to attack these two players early.
I will be posting up to date scoring on the forum and if you would like to listen into the game go to
http://client.stretchinternet.com/client/lbsuicehockey.portal#
James
James Anderson here giving you live blog updates on tonight's game between USC and a very talented Long Beach State team!
Tonight's matchup for the Trojans features the return of Junior Assistant Captain Dante Caravaggio from offseason knee surgery. His presence on the blue line gives our defense the upgrade it needs to protect Freshman standout goalie Alex Caravaggio, who has become the undisputed since the graduation of Senior goalie Zack Keith. USC's starting lineup is:
C - Charlie Mach
RW - Noah Comisar
LW - Beau Selisker
D - Mike Gawlik
D - Tom Duffy
G - Alex Caravaggio
SC is going up against a very talented and deep Long Beach State team, who last night dismantled the visiting Texas Longhorns 15-3. Ranked 10th in the West, LBSU is lead by Senior Sean Hoang and Senior Scott Byrum. Look for the revamped Trojans to attack these two players early.
I will be posting up to date scoring on the forum and if you would like to listen into the game go to
http://client.stretchinternet.com/client/lbsuicehockey.portal#
James
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