COLUMBUS — Having already scored two goals in the Bobcats opening-round game of the American Collegiate Hockey Association National Tournament, Liam Geither and his linemates were once again on the ice with over 11 minutes to play.
Once he got in position and had the puck, he brought his stick back and took a shot.
Back of the net.
With that goal, Geither recorded a hat trick. While important, It was far from the only goal scored Friday, however, in Ohio's 13-1 demolishing of Oklahoma in Columbus’ OhioHealth Ice Haus.
“When the puck is on his stick, he has been creating some really good things,” coach Sean Hogan said.
Geither, who has quietly emerged as the Bobcats’ leading scorer, was part of an offensive line featuring three players in the top-four of the Bobcats’ scoring this season. Friday was the first game those three played on the same line.
The decision to use them at the same time seems to be paying off for the Bobcats.
With Geither playing with Gianni Evangelisti (32 points) and Patrick Spellacy (28 points), that line could prove to be a deciding factor in how far the Bobcats can make it in the National Tournament.
What’s next?
After a light practice Saturday morning, the Bobcats will find out who they play next.
During that light practice, the team will also find out the status of forward Austin Heakins; he missed Friday’s game with a knee injury but was optimistic about returning for Sunday’s game.
The potential for a CSCHL tournament rematch could happen in that game Sunday.
If No. 6 Lindenwood beat No. 11 Stony Brook, the Lions will face Ohio for the second time in three weeks with a trip to the semifinal on the line. Lindenwood beat the Bobcats in double overtime in the CSCHL tournament game.
Either way, Ohio isn’t worried. It’s not about who the Bobcats play; it is about how they play.
The puck will drop for the Bobcats — no matter who they play — on Sunday at 2 p.m.
