The Johns Hopkins Blue Jays (2-0) play host to the Bucknell Bison (0-2) this Saturday afternoon, February 22 at 4 PM.
With two impressive victories to open the season, JHU looks to extend their winning against a more difficult foe. The Blue Jays handed both Marquette and Mount Saint Mary’s debilitating defeats by the scores of 16-2 and 17-2 respectively. The Blue Jays had a strong offseason both in acquisitions and preparation and it has already translated onto the field. However, their toughest test thus far this season will be on Saturday.
The Bucknell Bison have come out the gates struggling. After being crushed 18-1 this past weekend by Stony Brook, the Bison took on nationally ranked Penn State University on Wednesday admirably, despite falling 21-9. Bucknell will look to use any confidence gained from a hard fought battle against PSU at home as they now travel on the road to JHU.
Johns Hopkins got a combined 13 goals from seniors Taylor D’Amore and Sammy Cermack and sophomore Dene’ DiMartino en route to their Mount Saint Mary’s drubbing. On the other hand, Emily Kookogey scored three goals and freshman Bridget Shaffrey added two off the bench to lead Bucknell offensively against PSU. The aforementioned players will be the key for the opposing sides’ defenses. That being said, the most interesting matchup to keep an eye on is whether or not the Bison defense/goaltending can keep the dynamic Blue Jay attack off of the scoreboard early and often.
On paper, this shapes up like a true David vs. Goliath matchup but don’t tell the Bison that. As the saying goes, “There is a reason we play the games.”
