MARQUETTE (0-1) VS HOFSTRA (0-0)
THE LAST TIME THEY MET: This is the first official meeting between the squads. They scrimmaged at Shuart Stadium last year on February 10 in Marquette’s inaugural season.
The Skinny
Golden Eagles: Joe Amplo returns to his roots in Hempstead where he was a player and associate head coach. But this time it is all business as Marquette looks to bounce back from its 13-6 loss to Lehigh. They trailed 3-2 at the end of the first quarter before Lehigh would pull away, outscoring Marquette 10-4 the rest of the way. Face-offs played a role as the Golden Eagles struggled mightily as they only won 4-of-22 draws. Conor Gately led his team with three points while Tyler Melnnyk had two goals.
Pride: The recently extended head coach Seth Tierney looks to guide the Pride back to the postseason. To do so, they must find the back of the cage more consistently this season. Hofstra worked hard during the offseason to improve its depth, especially at the midfield. There is no star on the unit but multiple players who can contribute throughout the year. On attack, Torin Varn, Lance Yapor and Sam Llinares are back and ready to carry the load. They will have to as the new close defense will need time to mesh.
Difference Makers: This game may be decided by the X-Factor positions: face-offs and goaltending. Marquette had a bad day in these areas against Lehigh. Cullen Cassidy (4-15) and goaltender JJ Sagl (four saves) will have to be at their best on Saturday. Hofstra’s Chris Selva was one of the best goaltenders last season. He needs to stand tall behind an inexperienced close defense. Despite John Antoniades’ graduation, highly touted freshman Kris Clarke and Connnor Horl played well in the pre-season at the draws.
