Photo Credit: Kelsey Lee-Violet Turtle Photography

Assistant Head Coach Brendan Riley took us through the AIC finale against RIT. The Yellow Jackets got swept by the Tigers in a game where they stayed close all evening. Josh Barnes had two goals and Troy Kobryn made his first start in net for AIC. Both had their efforts come up for naught in the loss. This AIC team did not win a series last year until January. While no one expected a sweep, Head Coach Eric Lang’s groups are known for building and adapting throughout the year, and this one has only yet just begun.

Here’s Riley on what Barnes, who potted two goals brings to the group:

“ I wasn’t a part of the recruiting of Josh Barnes but I know he is an amazing kid who has about as much raw talent and skill as any player I’ve coached.”

The biggest change for AIC in game two of the series ended up being according to Riley.

“The biggest change of the series for us was going to Troy in the net. I thought he was good. He made some huge saves and kept us in a position to win the game. Unfortunately we could it get it done for him.”

Riley commented on the process of building the team out saying:

“We are committed to getting better as we go. It’s all a process for us. We are more focused on the way we play right now and eventually, that will yield the results later in the season when it matters most.”

Julius Janhonen was hit up high by a Tiger in this one. The staff challenged for a major penalty and for once, the major was not given. Riley gave his thoughts.

“ I couldn’t hear the explanation that the officials gave but we thought it for sure could’ve and should’ve been a penalty. That’s part of the game though and there are no excuses. We didn’t do enough to win the hockey game. It’s that simple.”

On planning for Canisius on the road in a big series this weekend for an AIC group that is trying to take six points on the road after losing them at home.

“We haven’t been able to plan for Canisius at all yet so we will have to take a look at that Monday. We’re more focused on us playing the right way.”

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