It didn’t matter that Ohio had a short week. It was irrelevant that Lindenwood was undefeated. After what’s been a frustrating season full of uphill battles, the Bobcats earned their second win of the season with a 3-0 win over the Lions.
Here are three takeaways from Ohio’s win:
Defense redeems itself
After allowing six goals to Robert Morris in a loss Tuesday, Ohio’s (2-12) defense came back looking much more sure of itself Friday night, forcing its first shutout of the season.
Even when Lindenwood’s (12-1) fast-paced offense was putting up shot after shot all game, the Bobcats held their poise. Goaltender Max Karlenzig, who was pulled after a rough night against Robert Morris, also had a great night, making a number of tough saves that were almost disasters for Ohio after Lindenwood got a good shot opportunity.
Clean play
Penalties killed the Bobcats in their loss to Robert Morris, as said by Ohio assistant coach Lionel Mauron. Against the Lions, the Bobcats only had two penalty minutes, a significant improvement over the 17 from the prior game. In comparison, they got three power-play opportunities from the Lions.
Penalties are from the biggest problem Ohio has had this season, but avoiding simple and selfish mistakes always brings team morale up.
Well-time first goal
Ryan Hastings got his first goal of the season at an opportune time.
With seven minutes left in what was a defensive game, Hastings was in the right place at the right time when the puck deflected off the wall and came right to him when he was a few feet away from the goal. Hastings took a stance, shot and delivered the puck right into the Lions’ net to give Ohio its first goal of the game.
