The Bobcats knew they needed to bounce back following Friday night’s 8-3 loss to Lindenwood. Especially goalie Max Karlenzig, who was pulled off the ice after letting in three goals in the first period.
But Karlenzig and the Bobcats did bounce back.
Ohio (5-15) defeated Iowa State (13-8-2) in a 3-1 win Saturday night. The Cyclones were unable to do anything against Karlenzig, who made 28 saves.
Though the Cyclones had 29 shots on net, they had many scoring chances and point-blank shots that were shut down by Karlenzig.
J.T. Schimizzi also pulled through for the Bobcats by scoring two of Ohio’s three goals.
Iowa State’s Will Kutch would go on to tie the game up midway through the second period, but Collin Felton regained the lead for Ohio less than five minutes into the third period. Schimizzi’s second goal with 7:07 remaining in the game would seal the deal for the Bobcats.
Here are some main takeaways from Saturday night:
Strong play in net:
There is something to be said about having a successful goaltender in ice hockey. Almost all good teams have one.
The Bobcats have been fortunate enough this season to have two of them in Karlenzig and Matt Server, both of whom are still freshmen.
It was also impressive that Karlenzig, after struggling and getting pulled against Lindenwood, stepped up the very next day to get the job done. He looked poised in the net, not allowing any rebounds and making several big stops in situations where Iowa State easily could have scored.
Return of strong defensive play:
Toward the end of their regular season, the Bobcats defense has excelled. They once again struggled Friday night against a common foe in Lindenwood.
But after allowing eight goals, Ohio turned things around Saturday and regained that strong defensive play that it has been known for as of late.
Most games this season have been low-scoring for the Bobcats, and it has been important for their defense to play well for them to have a good chance at winning games on a regular basis.
What’s next?
Ohio’s victory Saturday night meant the Bobcats earned three points in the Central State Collegiate Hockey League Round Robin.
Right now, both Ohio and Lindenwood have three points. Iowa State and Lindenwood will play each other Sunday evening.
