The last time the Ohio hockey team lost three games in a four-game stretch, it responded by winning 18 of its next 19.
After a series split with Robert Morris last weekend, the Bobcats find themselves in the same situation: losers of three of four and looking to rebound heading into the final weekend of the regular season.
Coach Dan Morris said they learned lessons from those early-season losses, and his team will be looking to apply those lessons this weekend.
We talk about the season being a rollercoaster. We understand that you will have some ups and some downs
he said. We just want to be going up at the right time.
The Bobcats will attempt to head in the right direction again when they welcome conference rival Kent State into Bird Arena this weekend.
Loser of five of its last six games, Kent State also comes into this weekend on a bit of a losing streak.
During their past six games, opponents have outscored the Golden Flashes 34-12.
In order for the Bobcats to get back on track, Morris said they need to focus on what they do well.
During the course of the past two weekends, the Bobcats played with little urgency and did a poor job with defensive assignments.
For the first time all season, Ohio allowed at least three goals in three consecutive losses.
With the losses, Morris said the team's confidence suffered, and it must regain that confidence before postseason play begins.
We're still reeling a little bit but we're comfortable with the team and I think if we can find a way to win
our confidence will only grow
Morris said.
No matter where it is in the standings, Kent State has recently been a team that has played Ohio toughly.
Coming into this season, the two teams had split their last eight games. Four of the last five contests between the two teams have been decided by one goal.
Despite their recent struggles, Morris said he knows Kent State will be hungry for a win this weekend.
They're coming in determined
and they always play us tough
Morris said. They've got a lot of motivation. We've got to be ready for that and understand that's what's coming into Bird Arena this weekend.
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Sports
Rob Ogden
