The Chargers came into the weekend seeking to avenge last season's loss to Niagara in the College Hockey America final. The team also wanted to get Coach Doug Ross his 400th career victory. Part B went fine as the Chargers beat the Purple Eagles 5-3 in the series opener. But Part A only halfway came true, as Niagara blanked the Chargers 3-0 in the second game. It is the first time the Chargers have been shut out this season.
After the Chargers take a holiday break, the two teams will hook up for Round 2 in New York on December 1-2.
On Friday night, the Chargers came out fired up. The fire was nearly extinguished by a first period goal by the Eagles. However, freshman Jason Tinwick evened things up with his first goal of the season at 9:12 in the opening period.
Less than two minutes later, Jessi Otis gave UAH the lead with a goal, with an assist from Ryan McCormack.
Early in the second period, Ron Baker fed Karlis Zirnis for the Chargers' third goal of the game. However, Niagara cut the lead to 3-2 less than a minute later on a goal by Chris Sebastian.
UAH came right back with Otis' second goal of the game and fourth of the year to take a 4-2 lead. The goal came only a 1:03 after Sebastian's goal.
Midway through the third period, the Eagles climbed back to within a goal when Thomas Clayton scored with less than seven minutes left. However, the defense held on and Dwayne Blais put the game away with an empty net goal with 53 seconds left.
The Chargers celebrated the win, but were a bit concerned about their play down the stretch. They would have good reason to be concerned. The Eagles came into the second game seeking their own bit of payback. Unfortunately the Chargers' lack of offense and ability to convert on any of six power play opportunities would leave the door open for Niagara.
The Eagles jumped out to a quick two goal lead in the first period and went on to a 3-0 win.
UAH actually outshot Niagara 33-29, including 24-18 in the final two periods. Despite making 26 saves, Mark Byrne suffered his second loss of the season.
Next Series: at Niagara University in Niagara, NY on December 1-2, 7:00 p.m. EST.
