The playoffs are officially here for the Lakers as they will take on Morrisville State this afternoon in the NEWHL semifinals. Oswego State finished the regular season with a 2-1 overall record against the Mustangs. Also, the last time Oswego State lost a game was against Morrisville State in January. Since then, the Lakers finished the regular season 6-0-1, including their second regular-season win against the Mustangs.

Keys to the Game

Oswego State

Limiting turnovers will be the key to the Lakers winning and moving on in the NEWHL playoffs. In the past when Oswego State has struggled to get the offense going they always have difficulties moving the puck. To prevent this from occurring they will need to make short, smart passes and let their offense flourish against Morrisville State.

Morrisville State

Scoring on the powerplay will be the key to the Mustangs leaving Oswego with a win. The last time Morrisville State defeated Oswego State they scored on the powerplay. If the game becomes a bit chippy where players are going to the penalty box, the Mustangs will need to take advantage of their extra woman opportunities.

By the Numbers

Record (Conference)

OSW: 15-6-4 (10-4-4)
MOR: 12-12-1 (9-8-1)

Goals (Per Game)

OSW: 68 (2.7)
MOR: 63 (2.5)

Shots (Per Game)

OSW: 765 (30.6)

MOR: 705 (28.2)

Power Play (Percentage)

OSW: 19-96 (.198)
MOR: 15-82 (.183)

Players to Watch

Oswego State: Rachael Farmer

The Lakers starting goaltender has been playing exceptional hockey this past month and her play in net has been a huge part in the Lakers current six-game winning streak. Throughout the season, Farmer has stepped up with her play in net to keep Oswego State in games and give her team the best chance to win. If Farmer has another strong afternoon in the net the Lakers have a very good chance to win this afternoon. 

Morrisville State: Mackenzie Lombardi

The Mustangs leading scorer is coming off two games against SUNY Plattsburgh where she registered one goal and two assists against the top team in the NEWHL. The junior forward is currently one of the leading scorers for Morrisville State and will need to have a big offensive game against the Lakers to give her team the best chance to win.

Final Thoughts

Today is going to be a full day of Oswego State playoff hockey and will get kicked off with an exciting game between two NEWHL opponents. If the Lakers can come out and immediately score early then it should be smooth sailing for the team. However, they should expect Morrisville State to come out aggressive.

Nicole Hube | The Oswegonian