The Lancers struggled immediately after the Christmas break going 1-3-1 in the first five games following the break, with losses to Indiana, Sioux Falls, and Lincoln. Since that time, the Lancers have gone 6-0-1 including wins over Indiana, Waterloo, Sioux Falls and Des Moines. The only blemish in the last seven games was an overtime loss to Indiana on the road.
The Lancers present a very balanced offensive effort led by Barry Almedia and Chris Connelly. Matt White started hot after the break, only to suffer a bruised spleen and is no out for 6 to 8 weeks. The loss of White is tempered by the return of Joe Diamond who returned from an ankle injury and pnuemonia to score goals in back to back games against Waterloo and Sioux Falls. Lancer youngster Dakota Eveland is beginning to show his talents, and should be a key down the stretch. With the loss of White, the Lancers do need highly touted Nico Sacchetti to step up his offensive numbers.
After struggling early in the month, the Lancers "D" corp has played better in the last 7 games. The blueliners are led by Captain Chris Hepp and underrated Kier Ross. Joe Sova, Will O'Neil, and quickly improving Tyler Elbrecht generate the offense from the "D" corp and all have continued to improve on the defensive side of the game.
The Lancers remain solid in net with both Drew Palmisano and Shane Madalora playing well and giving the Lancers the chance to win almost every night.
February will be a key month to the Lancer success in the West Division as they play Lincoln twice (Feb 1&5), Sioux City twice (Feb 22&29), Tri Cities twice (Feb 12&15), and Des Moines twice (Feb 2&23). The Lancers also visit Waterloo (2-9) and host Chicago (2-0)
The Lancers will be without Matt White for 6 to 8 weeks with the bruised spleen. Patrick Wierciotch should be returning from a broken thumb in the next couple of weeks.
No comments:
Post a Comment