It was an outstanding opening weekend with favored wins, upsets galore and some overtime thrillers. Looking for more of the same this week as more conferences jump into league play this week raising the sense of urgency for wins and points. Last week my picks finished at 6-2-1 (.722) so off to a good start and looking to build momentum like many teams that started out well last weekend. Here are this week’s picks:
Thursday, November 7, 2019
Westfield State @ Post
This non-conference game should set-up nicely for two teams looking to gain some early season momentum. It really is a toss-up here so I will defer to the home team advantage and a narrow Post win – Post 4, Westfield State 3
Friday, November 8, 2019
No. 14 Curry @ Endicott
The Colonels surprised two ranked teams last week but aren’t going to sneak up on Endicott as CCC play begins. Look for Justin Ketola to outplay Conor O’Brien for the win – Curry 3, Endicott 2
No. 14 Utica @ No. 10 Manhattanville
Two of the favorites in the UCHC square off on Friday night and this one definitely has a home-ice advantage for the Valiants who follow up on a great opening weekend with two big conference points – Manhattanville 3, Utica 2
New England College @ No. 2 Norwich
A great rivalry for many years, the Pilgrims always give the Cadets a battle, but the big ice surface and special teams of the home team are too much to overcome for the visitors. Felix Brassard and company won’t take the Pilgrims lightly – Norwich 4, NEC 1
Plattsburgh @ No. 5 Oswego
While it is only the second weekend of the season, the last thing Plattsburgh head coach wants to see is a 0-3 conference record. Big hill to climb on the road against the Lakers who have too much firepower for the young Cardinals – Oswego 5, Plattsburgh 2
Saturday, November 2, 2018
Stonehill @ Franklin Pierce
Expect a lot of pace and physicality in this game between two NE-10 teams. Special teams will make the difference in this game and it favors the home team with a special teams goal late in the third period – Franklin Pierce 3, Stonehill 1
Fitchburg State @ Anna Maria College
After last season where the AmCats played on seven home games for the entire season, the team may be in shock to be playing three in a row to open the season. The Falcons are always ready to play anywhere, and Brian McGrath has been known to steal a win or two. He helps the Falcons earn a “W”– Fitchburg State, Anna Maria 4
King’s @ Lebanon Valley
A quick start from the Flying Dutchman will be just enough to hold off a pesky King’s group that battles right to the final buzzer. An empty-net goal is the cushion needed for the home team – LVC 4, King’s 2
Nichols @ Salve Regina
These two teams have quickly built a history and rivalry with both teams taking meaningful games either in the regular season or playoffs and often on the opponent’s home ice. Could see the Bison winning here but think the Seahawks will be ready to hold serve at home – Salve Regina 3, Nichols 2
Conference play begins in earnest this week so there is more on the line than just bragging rights. Two points are important no matter what time of the year it is. “Drop the Puck!”
