Storrs, CT -- University of Connecticut came out strong and controlled most of the play in the first period as they celebrated their Senior Night.. Phil Vermiglio put the Huskies on the board first with a power play goal from the left wing circle at 13:41. Senior, Paul Cinquegrana would increase their lead midway through the first period. Zach Smith had a chance on a breakaway in the closing minutes of the period but was stopped by netminder Mike Ford. UConn would take a 3-0 lead heading into the intermission.
Westfield regrouped during the break and played one of their best periods of hockey this season. Nick Liberto made several key saves to keep the Owls close as they tried to generate some offense. Liberto would finish the night making 72 saves, a career best. Corey Jenks would get the Owls' only goal of the night after picking the puck up at the blue line and firing a wrist shot top shelf. Steve Evans would pick up the lone assist on the goal. After holding UConn scoreless in the second period, the Owls went into the locker room trailing the 5th ranked team in the country 3-1.
In the first half of the third period, the game was still up for grabs. There was a lot of back and forth action as each team traded scoring chances. However, three goals in a 3 minute span towards the end made the score a little lopsided. UConn came into the game on a 21 game winning streak and would increase their streak with the final score of 6-1.
The Owls finish their 2013-14 schedule next Saturday as they travel to Sacred Heart University. Westfield defeated the Pioneers 6-2 when the two teams last met at Amelia Park back in October. The Owls look to improve their record to .500 in conference play this season.
Goal: Jenks (8)
Goaltender: Liberto (72 Saves, 5-4-0)
Power Play: 0 for 2
Penalty Kill: 3 for 4
