Home stretch kicks off against Michigan-Dearborn

Nov 6, 2009

The Flashes will meet No. 12 Michigan-Dearborn in the first two games of a five-game home stretch that begins this weekend. Both teams have similar offensive styles which should lead to close scores.

“It may be the last one to touch the puck wins,” head coach Jarret Whidden said. “With the type of hockey we both play, it should be up and down the ice for both games.”

The Wolves have some strong players that anchor the team, but their depth doesn’t compare with the Flashes.

“Some of their forwards might match up with ours,” forward Chris Binkley said. “But then you have to add in our defense and goaltending.”

While Kent State has skill across all positions, the team has struggled with inconsistency this season.

“We need to stay focused on playing our game,” forward Justin Phenney said. “Kent State hockey is about everybody working hard and performing in their roles. We all need to play our roles individually, and then we’ll click together and win games.”

The home ice advantage should help the team to focus on fixing past mistakes.

“Being home will help us to concentrate more on hockey,” forward Dave Bruder said. “It gives us the time to work on our skills.”

Whidden added that being at home for five games takes away the stress of traveling.

“It’s good to keep the guys at home sleeping in their own beds,” Whidden said. “It’s hard being on the road and staying in hotels all the time.”

As practice continues this week the Flashes will focus on backchecking and conditioning.

“We’re going a lot harder in practice this week,” Phenney said. “We have to be ready for their speed and offense.”

The series starts Friday, Nov. 6 at 7:45 p.m. and continues Saturday, Nov. 7 at 7:15 p.m.

Next Home Games:  

Friday           Nov 13          vs Duquesne                 7:15pm

Saturday       Nov 14          vs Adrian                      8:15pm