The Lakers are on the road today in Plattsburgh to take on the No. 1 seed in Plattsburgh State for the NEWHL Championship game. In the last month, both teams have been the best in the NEWHL and will have one final battle to decide a champion.

Keys to the Game

Oswego State

Staying out of the penalty box will be the key to Oswego State leaving Plattsburgh with a win. When speaking to associate head coach Mark Digby was discussing the team’s gameplan for Plattsburgh State was to limit their opportunities on the power play. If the Lakers can accomplish this they have a better chance at a closer game.

Plattsburgh State

Scoring early will be the key to Plattsburgh State winning tonight. There should be a pretty large crowd tonight in Plattsburgh and if the Cardinals can score early it could make the atmosphere more intense, possibly taking the Lakers out early in the game. 

By the Numbers

Record (Conference)
OSW: 16-6-4 (10-4-4)

PLA: 25-1 (18-0)

Goals (Per Game)

OSW: 69 (2.7)
PLA: 125 (4.8)

Shots (Per Game)

OSW:  800 (30.8)
PLA: 1,147 (44.1)

Power Play (Percentage)

OSW: 20-100 (.200)
PLA: 33-119 (.277)

Players to Watch

Oswego State: Eryn Stewart

The senior forward for the Lakers is coming off a game where she scored the lone goal for her team. Stewart has been one of Oswego State’s most consistent scorers all year and can be expected to be heavily involved in the offensive game plan. Stewart will definitely have to contribute offensively to give the Lakers the best chance to win. 

Plattsburgh State: Annie Katonka

Plattsburgh State’s leading scorer is coming off of a game where she registered a goal and an assist against SUNY Cortland. Katonka will see plenty of ice time this afternoon and with multiple teammates capable of scoring she will get chances to distribute the puck on top of scoring for her team.

Final Thoughts

The Lakers have not been able to defeat Plattsburgh State since 2016 and will be looking to end that losing streak this afternoon. When you look at the box score, the games have been close of late. However, Plattsburgh State should be considered the heavy favorites in this game due to the team dominating all opponents this season on top of their history against Oswego State. 

Nicole Hube | The Oswegonian