Cornell Seeks Redemption in Union Rematch
The following article appeared in the February 11 issue of the Cornell Daily Sun.
BY EVAN RICH
While a Feb. 18 fish-throwing affair with Harvard is the date circled in the calendars of the team’s most passionate fans, at the moment the only Friday night matchup the Red (11-9-3, 9-5-2 ECAC Hockey) has its eye on is tonight’s road contest at No. 9 Union (20-7-3, 12-3-1). This crucial conference battle in Schenectady, N.Y. will likely serve as a strong indication of what the future holds for a Cornell team that will conclude its road trip at No. 8 Rensselaer (18-6-4, 10-5-1) in a nationally televised 3:30 p.m. contest on Saturday. In order to contend for one of the top spots in the ECAC, the men’s hockey team will need to show vast improvement from last month’s disappointing 5-1 home loss to the Dutchmen — the Red’s only loss in its last 10 games.
“We didn’t work hard [against] them at all. They kind of took it to us,” said senior forward and co-captain Patrick Kennedy, referring to the blowout loss at Lynah. “I think this game we’re going to focus on one-on-one battles where guys are forced to take the puck to the net … a lot more. I think it just came down to what team wanted it more, and Union did obviously, pulling out a 5-1 win.”
One factor that will certainly play into the Red’s favor is the hot streak the team has been on since it returned from consecutive losing efforts in the Florida College Classic in the days leading up to the New Year. Cornell’s 7-1-2 record in its last 10 games has vaulted the team into ECAC playoff contention, with a chance to take over the third spot in the standings on the line this weekend. According to head coach Mike Schafer ’86, the impetus for the team’s most recent success has been its stellar special teams play.
Complete article can be accessed via the Daily Sun Web site by clicking here.
