Saturday, February 25, 2012

2/24 Recap: Knapp ties mark; Eidsness steps up

Connor Knapp remained the hottest goaltender in all of college hockey Friday, stopping 28 shots to tie Miami's all-time record for shutouots in a 3-0 win over Ohio State. The 6'6 senior has been stellar since January 1st, claiming a 9-2 record with a .90 goals against average, .962 save percentage, and four shutouts. Knapp, who moves to 12-6 overall, now leads the nation with a 1.56 goals against average, while his .938 save percentage ranks third (the co-leaders have .939). Look for him to remain in the RedHawks net when the teams travel to Columbus for Saturday's rematch.



Brad Eidsness made 26 saves in his third consecutive start to backstop North Dakota to a 4-3 win over Denver. The Sioux took a 4-1 lead late into the game before the Pioneers beat Eidsness for two goals in the final 47 seconds. Unbeaten in his last four starts, the senior could cause some tough decisions for the North Dakota coaching staff down the stretch. The Sioux, who sit in the fourth spot in the WCHA standings, will look to complete the road sweep on Saturday.

Alex Lepkowski scored his seventh goal of the year as Barrie earned a 5-4 shootout win over Ottawa. The 6'4 defender flung a point shot past World Junior sensation Petr Mrazek to give the Colts their first lead at 4:15 of the third. It was his third goal this season against the 67's. Gregg Sutch (even) committed a slashing minor at the end of the second period that resulted in a 67's power play goal at 1:23 of the third. The Colts head home for a Saturday night tilt with Mississauga.

Elsewhere, Dan Catenacci was held in check as Owen Sound dropped a 6-2 decision at Guelph. Catenacc, who has 10 goals and 19 points in his last baker's dozen, will look to keep his mojo going on Saturday when the Attack host Kitchener.

Nathan Lieuwen allowed five goals on 31 shots as Kootenay was smoked by Saskatoon, 5-0. The 6'5 netminder has lost his last four starts. The ICE will visit Prince Albert on Sunday.

Mark Pysyk did not register as Edmonton got past Calgary, 4-1. The Oil Kings will begin the final 10-game block of the season on Sunday against Lethbridge.

Steve Shipley finished -1 as Niagara was defeated was Mississauga, 3-2. The Dogs return to action Sunday when they host Kingston.

Drew MacKenzie pumped four shots on goal as Vermont was blanked by Boston University, 5-0. The senior defenseman will play his final home game at Gutterson Fieldhouse on Saturday.

Brad Navin recorded a shot on goal as Wisconsin rode a strong second period to a 4-2 win over Bemidji State. The Badgers will complete their first-ever trip to Bemidji on Saturday.

Kevin Sundher remained out of the lineup (day to day, concussion) as Brandon skated to a 3-2 victory over Swift Current.

Mark Adams remained out of action with a concussion as Providence lost to Boston College, 3-0.

Christian Isackson was scratched as Minnesota edged Nebraska-Omaha, 3-2.