Photo Credit-Kelsey Lee- Violet Turtle Photography

Last year, AIC Hockey opened up early on in the season at home against the same school they played last night.

They took an early lead.

They did not hold on for the win as the Minutemen clawed back to earn a tie in AIC’s home rink.

That game showed issues that other teams would key on throughout the year. While the first game isn’t 100 percent indicative of how your team will finish, it did show challenges of last years’ group and how they would have to battle through them.

Last night, AIC nearly flipped the script from a year ago. They were an extra attacker goal away from doing the same thing the Minutemen did.

With that said, AIC had a lot of good things to look back on.

Head Coach Eric Lang talked about the effort of his team last night.

“I love the way we played tonight. I thought at times we carried the play against a very good Umass team. They did a better job around the net both their net and ours and that was the difference.”

This AIC team had the ability to get leads last year and had trouble holding on to games. The team that played last night played a strong game and got good looks. Cole Brady played a strong game in net for the Minutemen and earned the win at home.

The defense for AIC had a great night on offense. Brian Kramer snapped off a highlight-reel goal for AIC’s second and showed why he is the captain with his effort and skating throughout. Lang said “ He’s a terrific person and great competitor. His skill level is elite and he wants to win. Cant ask for more.”

Along with the play of Kramer a couple of players making their debuts stood out. Logan Jenuwine showed why Lang and his staff wanted him through the transfer portal from Lake Superior State. “Gens is in terrific shape and was one of the best players on the ice. He can be a difference maker for us.”

Now AIC moves forward. Buoyed by the play of rookie net minder Nils Wallstrom who started his first college game, and a team that did some good things, the challenges get tougher.

Next up is Quinnipiac, the defending National Champions. Lang said “ We are turning the page with lots of positives to build upon. We are excited for next week.”

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