SLU Versus University of Missouri, Rolla Game Notes (24 Mar 06)

SLU came out after a long hiatus for spring break with a game against the University of Missouri – Rolla. SLU was unable to practice during the week due to weather and it showed against the Miners. Early on SLU was able to find some holes in Rolla’s zone defense scoring the first two goals of the game. The second goal was a beautiful fake shot and pass by Joe Joyce to an open Cory Van Dyke. Rolla called a timeout after that goal and quickly adjusted their zone defense. The Billiken team began having scoring problems immediately and was unable to score again during the first quarter. After one quarter the score was SLU 2, UMR 1.

The second quarter was more of the same. SLU created some opportunities, but could not capitalize. SLU missed several opportunities dropping entry passes, misplacing shots, and simply failing to finish wide open looks. As the half wound down, UMR scored a goal in transition to tie the game at 5-5 going into half and gaining the edge in momentum.

The second half was still more of the same. SLU had trouble with the clear and had even more trouble putting the ball in the back of the net. Cory Van Dyke moved to “X” and used his speed and stick skills to create multiple opportunities, but SLU failed to capitalize on most of them. As the final five minutes of regulation approached SLU and Rolla were knotted up at 7-7. SLU had some good looks hitting the pipes with no less than three shots and also failed to catch two entry passes on Rolla’s doorstep. SLU was fortunate that Ben Zaegel made an outstanding save in the final seconds of regulation to send the game into overtime.

SLU won the face-off for the first possession of the extra period. More of the same, SLU created a solid look, but failed to capitalize. Rolla took their possession after a missed shot. During the settled ride, SLU regained control of the ball, and got the ball to a streaking Ryan Van Dyke who took an open path to the goal and scored the game winner!

SLU now must put a disappointing performance behind them as they prepare for a long weekend of games. SLU will play #20 Southwestern, #7 Harding, and a dangerous Memphis Tigers team this weekend. This upcoming weekend will test the resolve of SLU’s team as they will arrive with a short-bench due to several injuries to key contributors.