UMaine Attempts to Fire Back Up Against Opposition UMass Lowell

FOR RELEASE at 7 a.m. February 19, 2010
For Further Information, Contact Jordan Swerid: jmkswerid@hotmail.com

After coming off an impressive six game unbeaten streak, the Black Bears traveled to Boston, Massachusetts last weekend to face off against Boston University. Although Maine had the season’s momentum going, it was quickly shut down by Boston University. Maine lost quite handily by the scores of 7-4 and 5-2. Boston University won the Season Series 2-1.

This weekend’s match includes two very strong and competitive teams. Maine comes in with a record of 14-11-3 on the season and 11-8-2 in Hockey East play. UMass Lowell enters the weekend with a record of 15-13-2 overall and 9-10-2 in Hockey East play. Maine won the first time these two teams faced off by taking the game 3-1. Tanner House led the way with a pair of goals along with a goal from Adam Shemansky.

It is expected that both teams will play a very physical game to start off the weekend series. The Black Bears need to finish strong in the concluding six games of the season. If they want to finish the season ranked (they are currently ranked 15), they must get a few solid wins the rest of the way. UMaine finishes the season with two tough games against Merrimack next weekend in North Andover, Massachusetts and also another tough two-game set vs. UMass Amherst.

The Keys to Success for UMaine This Weekend:

UMaine must key on limiting turnovers. Last weekend against Boston University, the Black Bears continuously turned the puck over and put starting goalie, Scott Darling, in a number of poor opportunities. They must protect the fast break offense and slow down University of Massachusetts Lowell’s puck movement. Offensively, the Black Bears need more puck control and they should attempt to use the points more effectively. If they can accomplish these key things, the Black Bears will get back on a roll heading into the conclusion of the season.