By: Cody Carson
Slippery Rock, PA
With only three practices in just under a month, the Golden Flashes set their sights on making a strong statement in their first two games, both against nationally ranked opponents. The first game, bursting with anticipation from the players, quickly became a nightmare. Slippery Rock came out firing on all cylinders, putting in seven goals on freshman goalie Connor Danish in the first half, while holding Kent to one goal, scored by by freshman attack Julian Pursell all game. Sophomore keeper Jack Falconer replaced Danish at the half and only letting in 4 during his time in net. Unable to maintain possession on the offensive side of the field, the Flashes high powered offense was rendered useless, being held to under ten shots on goal. The game ended none too soon for the team with the final score ending at 11-1. Ready to bounce back, warmups began for the second game, a matchup with 13th ranked Penn State- Altoona. Freshman Ryan Kevern got the start in net for this game, looking to stifle the Lions offense, and spark a new day for Kent State. After being warmed up by Slippery Rock, the Flashes performed much better on the defensive end, with Kevern making plenty of key saves, along with help from junior defender Dan Conte, locking down any Altoona attacker he was tasked with defending, and key midfield help from junior Kyle Brown, and sophomore Cody Carson, who was moved from his usual attack position due to low numbers to play in the first midfield games of his career, ending with two hits, and a blocked shot in limited time. Kent spent more time in their offensive end this game, with several man-up opportunities, one of which being marred by a horrific disallowed goal by the Pennsylvania refs. A shot taken by junior Mike Argyros rang pipe, and hit netting, the Golden Flashes celebrated their tally, while the official waved it off. After an explanation to coach Jim Roberts and the players that none of whom understood, play restarted with the Flashes taking possession outside of the restraining box, still with a man advantage before losing possession on a save by the Lion keeper. Final score Kent State 4-9 Altoona. The Flashes begin their spring break, before coming back to three games in 5 days at Cleveland State, Akron, and Bowling Green.