The Oswego State women’s ice hockey team is looking to build momentum off their win against number one Plattsburgh State and continue their hot start to the season against Williams College. Tonight will be the first of a two game weekend series. Oswego State wants to build off their (7-1-0) record as Williams College wants to get off to a good start to their season as they’re (1-1-0) to start this season.

Last Matchup Together

The last time these two teams faced off was last February in Oswego. The Lakers defeated Williams that game by a score of 3-1. The Lakers dominated the possession game that day outshooting Williams 29-25. Williams looks to change the result this time in what should be a great matchup.

By the Numbers

The Lakers this year are doing a fantastic job inside the faceoff circle. As a team they are winning almost 59 percent of their face-offs which is the sign of a team that has good offensive zone time. This stat is definitely a testament of how good the Lakers have been this year. As far as the penalty kill, Williams College is not off to a great start only killing 9 of their first 12 power plays. This is something that Williams College will definitely need to improve if they want to go far this year as a strong penalty kill leads to more wins.

Players to Watch

Oswego State Lakers-  Alli Ullrich

Ullrich has had a solid start to her season getting 5 points in her first 8 games and playing a solid two game as her contributions defensively have helped the Lakers a lot. She has continued to generate scoring chances by shooting the puck a lot. Even though she isn’t scoring goals right now she is generating many chances as her overall game has been very well rounded this season.

Williams College- Emily Krueger

The senior is leading her team in points playing two solid games so far this season. Krueger has been one of the best players on her team for a long time now and is continuing that play this year.

Game Prediction

One does have to wonder about the dreaded trap game in this one. It is not like Williams College is a pushover but the brand of hockey Oswego State has played this year has put them in the conversation of one of the best teams in the country so a loss this weekend would be devastating. In saying that this Lakers team just beat number one Plattsburgh last week and have been dominant against lesser opponents this year. I expect Oswego State to continue their strong play and get a 4-1 victory in this one. Either way it will sure be a good one tonight.