Behind the numbers

Men's Hockey

Last year, the Bulldogs finished with an overall record of 14-16-1 and an Ivy record of 6-3-1. Despite the losing season, the Bulldogs managed huge wins over Union and Harvard during the regular season.

Bulldogs (2000-01) Points
Jeff Hamilton 55
Ben Stafford 46
Nick Deschenes 37
Luke Earl 27

However, the loss of star players Jeff Hamilton, SM '01, and Ben Stafford, BR '01, has prompted a re-evaluation of the Bulldog's strategy for the 2001-02 season. If the exhibition against St. Francis Xavier is any indication, the Bulldogs are looking at a bright season.

Yalies Highlight
Jason Noe 2 goals
Chris Higgins 2 goals
Spencer Rodgers 3 assists
Nick Deschenes 2 assists

Offensively, the Bulldogs dominated St. Francis with shots on goal. Their performance was reminscent of last year's season, when the Bulldogs kept up a relentless attack against oposing defenders and goalies.

2000-01 Shots on goal
Yale 1071
Opponents 954

vs. St. Francis Shots on goal
Yale 45
St. Francis 12

Last season, the Bulldogs outshot opponents 340-304 during the first period. Against St. Francis, the Bulldogs jumped out to a 4-0 lead by intermission and made their first goal on a power play at 8:39. However, the Bulldogs have been routinely unable to capitalize on power plays. During the St. Francis game, the Bulldogs had 11 power plays, but only scored two of their nine goals on power plays.

Power Plays Goals Pct.
132 27 20.5

Defensively, the Bulldogs continued last year's trend of strong play. Last season, of the 129 power plays the team allowed, the Bulldogs allowed only 38 goals. However, after having a save percentage of .881 last year, goalie Dan Lombard, SM '02, he allowed all three of their opponents' goals.

Goals Allowed Shots
Last Season 105 777
vs. St. Francis 3 6

This weekend, the men's hockey team looks forward to a hard-fought exhbition match against the U.S. National Under-18 Team. The two teams did not meet last year, so it will be a chance for Yale to work out any kinks before the start of their season.

—Compiled by Kevin Tran

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