SLU Versus Auburn University Game Notes (18 Feb 06)

SLU played their second game of the season against a very talented Auburn team from the SELC. The game time temperature was in the single digits with a wind chill that was sub-zero. The decision was made to play with a running clock before the start of the game because of the weather conditions.

Both teams struggled to find a rhythm in the first quarter. SLU had some trouble with their clears mostly due to a strong Auburn ride. Cory Van Dyke did manage to beat his defenseman and score an unassisted goal for SLU’s only goal of the quarter. Auburn managed to find the back of the net twice for a 2-1 lead at the end of the first quarter.

In the second quarter Auburn continued their impressive transitional play leading to three goals all scored within 15 feet of the crease. SLU could only counter with one goal. Auburn carried a 5-2 lead going into halftime.

SLU did not finally find a rhythm until near the end of the third quarter. They were already down by a score of 9-3. The game ended with the frozen Billiken team suffering an 11-5 loss to Auburn.

There were some bright spots for the Billikens during the game. Jeff Steitz and Cory Van Dyke both scored two goals a piece. They are tied for the team point lead with six points a piece. Gaetano Falcone continued to be extremely impressive in the midfield position. While he did have a great assist during the Auburn game, Gaetano’s real contributions do not necessarily show up on the stat sheet. Gaetano has managed to stand out for his defense, ground balls, clears, rides, face offs, and all the little things that make a midfielder great. Gaetano has really been a catalyst making everything SLU does on the field happen.

SLU will scrimmage Lindenwood University’s B team Thursday at 7:00 PM. The next official game is Sunday March 5th against Western Illinois University. The Leathernecks are a top 25 team.