San Jose State University Game 1...
Friday, January 9, 2009
Texas A&M University Aggies (4) VS. San Jose State University Spartans (8)
Friday a.m. found the Aggies travelling through central California to San Jose State. The Spartans are enjoying a successful season and are currently ranked 7th in our shared ACHA Western Region. With the Aggies ranked 14th and the Top Ten teams advancing to the Regional Playoffs, the Aggies must re-group to earn post season activity.
To start the match up on an early power play opportunity, Justin Cooley led the attack into the SJSU zone and fed Assistant Captain Jeff Diltz. A backhand drop pass to Assistant Eric Engelking trailing in the slot allowed a quick snapshot, and the Aggies are on the board at 19:00.
On another power play opportunity, the Spartans even the score at 11:43.
With 6:17 remaining in the first period, the Aggies take the lead. Sophomore Nathan Banks carried the play across the Spartan blue-line. Under defensive coverage, Banks stops quickly to allow a gap to develop. A soft pass to Nick Xenakis and a low shot glove side, 2-1 Aggies.
Three minutes later, the Aggies continue the pressure. On a failed Spartan clearing attempt, the A&M defensive pairing of John Rortvedt and Brian Young fired the puck to the SJSU goal area. A scrum, and Xenakis again tallied for the Aggies and the period expired, 3-1 Aggies.
The Spartans re-grouped and scored three un-answered goals in the second period.
The Spartans also scored four goals in the third period before the Aggies found pay dirt. With just over three minutes remaining on a power play situation, defenseman Brian Young found Banks off the back door, open net tally.
Final Score: 8-4, Spartans.
We enjoyed the contest against the aggressive and challenging style of the Spartans and we looked forward to Saturday nights match up.
Game Notes:
Power Play Goals: A&M 2; Spartans 4
Minor Penalties: A&M 15; Spartans 14
Despite the score, the Aggies played with determination and never gave up, never quit. Goaltender Kyle Vrla continued his exceptional focus and earned the start for the third game.
