Club hockey looks to regain scoring touch as season rolls on

Courtesy Photo / GVSU Student Life Sports

Courtesy Photo / GVSU Student Life Sports

Evan McMillin

The Grand Valley State University Division II men’s club hockey team has started the season on a roll. After starting the season with four-straight wins, the team tied their previous game against Siena College, bringing their overall record to 4-0-1.

The final score may have ended in a tie, but the Lakers dominated the net, out-shooting Siena College, 64-11.

Despite the vast difference in shots on net, the Lakers failed to capitalize on those opportunities, a problem that head coach Mike Forbes pointed out.

“We just couldn’t solve the riddle of the goaltender,” he said. “We’re a work in progress and our main goal is to strive to get better.”

The Lakers head into their next game looking to continue their hot streak on the road against Ohio State University. The Buckeyes represent a league game, and while the team doesn’t fully know what to expect, they are ready to hit the road.

“Honestly, I don’t know much about Ohio State. So far, every team we have played has given us their best game, and I don’t expect anything different,” said senior goalie Scott Tiefenthal. “Playing in Columbus should be a big incentive for (Ohio State) to play well.”

While the Lakers have only played one game at home this season, the road game at Ohio State will mark the end of the four-game set away from Allendale.

After a pair of extended runs in the ACHA National Tournament, the team has its eyes on the postseason.

“Well, we always have the goal of making it to the national tournament for sure,” said sophomore forward Jacob Endicott. “That has always been a top priority for our team. But our ultimate goal is to win the national championship. I mean, what team doesn’t have that goal?”

As the Lakers continue their season, they look to build on what has already been laid out for them and continue their path to nationals. GVSU will take the ice next Friday at Ohio State before coming back to host the Buckeyes on Saturday.
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