After splitting last weekend's series with West Virginia, the Ohio hockey team returns to Bird Arena this weekend for their home-opening series against the St. Louis Billikens.
Last season, the Bobcats defeated the Billikens handily in two games, 10-0 and 9-0. However, Ohio coach Dan Morris cautioned that St. Louis should not be overlooked.
Every year is different
Morris said. In the past we played them when they had a lot of injuries. I think this will be one of the better St. Louis teams we have faced in recent years.
Morris added that the Bobcats must make changes to rebound from the season-opening overtime loss to West Virginia last Friday, and to increase its chances of winning both games against St. Louis.
We need to increase our levels of intensity and effort Morris said. Our talent was the only thing that kept us in the game on Friday.
The Ohio players are also aware of the necessary adjustments they need to have a successful home opener.
We need to capitalize on power plays said left wing Brandon Hanley. Our percentage wasn't very high last weekend.
For the seven new Ohio players, tonight's game against the Billikens will be their first opportunity to play as a Bobcat at home. Morris said he does not think the level of success expected by the home crowd will add much pressure to the newcomers.
Some will enjoy it and some may feel the pressure
but most of the guys have played against big crowds before in high school
Morris said.
The veteran players echoed Morris' faith in the new players to be able to handle the Ohio fans' expectations.
They'll come out really well
right wing Paul Warriner said. I remember my first time
I was surprised at the support we got. They will be excited and the crowd will add to that excitement. They'll be nervous but we make them feel like they are fitting in well. They know the system.
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