Oswego State is set to play its second game this weekend, as it will travel to Potsdam to face SUNY Potsdam. The Lakers are coming off of a 2-1 win over SUNY Canton, where they were able to score one of their two goals on the power play. The Bears are also entering this game off of a 3-1 win against Morrisville State, where they converted on the power play as well.

Keys to the Game

Oswego State

Staying out of the penalty box will be the key for Oswego State in this afternoon’s game. The Lakers found themselves in the penalty box a total of seven times against SUNY Canton. Even though Oswego State only allowed one power play goal, a lot of the penalties were unnecessary. If it can play more disciplined this afternoon, that will help them leave SUNY Potsdam with a win.

SUNY Potsdam

Scoring early will be the key for SUNY Potsdam to get a win in today’s game against Oswego State. The Lakers have not had to come back from behind in a game since the Plattsburgh State series, and an early Bears goal could take some of the wind out of Oswego State’s sails. If the Bears can score early and generate a lot of offensive opportunities, then they will have an opportunity to successfully defend their home ice. 

By the Numbers

Record (Conference)

OSW: 4-2-1 (2-2-1)

POT: 4-3 (3-3)

Goals (Per Game)

OSW: 20 (2.9)

POT: 21 (3.0)

Shots (Per Game)

OSW: 224 (32.0)
POT: 162 (23.1)

Power Play (Percentage)

OSW: 7-36 (.194)
POT: 3-22 (.136)

Players to Watch

OSW: Rachael Farmer

Farmer did not start against SUNY Canton, so expect her to be rested and ready to go this afternoon. After surrendering three goals against SUNY Cortland in the third period, she will look to have a bounce back game in net. Add that to Oswego State’s improvements in terms of blocking shots, which will only help Farmer.

POT: Miranda Kolb

The senior for the Bears is leading her team in scoring, with five goals and is coming off of a game where she scored a power play goal. If SUNY Potsdam comes out of gates aggressive,m expect Kolb to be front and center for a lot of its offensive opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Statistically, both teams on paper look pretty even and have gotten off to similar starts on the season record wise. With both teams starting to figure out how to convert on the power play, this game has the chance to be a high scoring game. SUNY Potsdam looks to have a slight edge as it has a winning record at home and will not have to deal with travel as much, despite playing in Morrisville last night.

Photo By Nicole Hube | The Oswegonian