After securing second place in the Central States Collegiate Hockey League standings last weekend, Ohio will return to Bird Arena for its final series of the season.
No. 5 Ohio will host Pittsburgh on Senior Weekend, which will be the final time seniors Duncan Green, Jonathan Gulch, Brett Agnew, Paul Sergi and Ian Smith play on the home ice.
“With it being our last weekend at home this year, I think it’s important to get two wins for our seniors for all the work and dedication (the seniors) put in for the last four years,” junior defender Scott Fasano said. “And also for our fans as well who have supported us all year long.”
Ohio is riding a four-game win streak after sweeping Kent State last weekend at home, when the Bobcats outscored the Golden Flashes 15-2.
Last weekend, the Bobcat front-line trio of freshmen Matt Hartman and Patrick Spellacy, along with Agnew, combined for a staggering 19 points during the two games. Spellacy and Agnew each scored eight points, including a hat trick in game one by the former.
In addition to its offensive success, Ohio has been showing signs of defensive stability. Freshman goaltender Ryan Heltion has performed well in place of his classmate Aaron Alkema, who was sidelined by an injury. Heltion allowed just two goals on 28 attempts last weekend.
As long as the Bobcats continue to click on all cylinders, it should be both, interesting and exciting to see what’s in store for the close of the season.
“It’s very important to close out the regular season on a high note,” coach Jonathon Sheridan said. “You always want to be riding the wave just before its highest point as you go into leagues and nationals.”
Game mechanics and tournament expectations aside, this weekend means a lot for the seniors, according to Sheridan.
“It is going to be a special weekend for the seniors,” Sheridan said. “Playing their last home games at Bird Arena is going to be emotional for them. I know all the other guys want to thank them with a win to send them off.”
Up next
Who: Ohio (27-7-2) vs Pittsburgh (12-9-2)
When: Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Bird Arena
Admission: $5 for students
@kelsey_surmacz4
ks363012@ohiou.edu
