London, ON - The Mustangs Men's Hockey team faced the York Lions at home on Thursday night in their first game of the new year. picking up a 2-0 shutout win.
The Mustangs controlled play right from the opening face-off, putting pressure on the York defence. Western started off the first period strong, taking the first few shots on net and consistently occupying York's defensive end. Just 3:44 into the first period, Eric Van Impe was able to net the first goal of the game, assisted by Christiano Aiello and Franco Sproviero.
The rest of the first period had a hard fought battle from both teams, however no further goals were scored during the first period.
The second period started off with a power play for the Mustangs, giving them a man advantage to start the period. However, York put up a tough fight throughout the second period, putting pressure on the Mustangs defence. At 13:17 in the second period, Owen MacNeil was able to monopolize on a front of the net scramble, and tip the puck in to bring the score to 2-0 for the Mustangs. MacNeil's goal was assisted by Anthony Allepot and Eric van Impe.
An altercation on the ice led to both teams receiving four-minute penalties to close out the second period. Head Coach Clarke Singer stated that "York has been the most physical team played so far… but we were full value for the game."
With the third period underway, the Mustangs fought to further their goal-point advantage, with aggression against the York defensive line. Another on ice altercation between the teams led to a four on three advantage for the Lions halfway through the third period. To finish off the frame, the Mustangs got a five on four advantage, and finished the game with a shutout to win their first game of the new year. MacNeil stated that the team "is looking to keep momentum going for the game on Saturday after the long break."
KEY STATS
FIRST PERIOD: Eric van Impe (#28) assisted by Christiano Aiello (#18) and Franco Sproviero (#26) @ 3:44
SECOND PERIOD: Owen MacNeil (#27) assisted by Anthony Allepot (#3) and Eric van Impe (#28) @ 13:17
NEXT GAME
The Mustangs take on the Guelph Gryphons at home at Thompson Arena on Saturday January 11th, at 3pm.
