SNC Splits Upper Midwest Trip

(from a Sierra Nevada release)

MINNEAPOLIS - The Eagles landed back in Tahoe after finishing 1-1 on their trip to face two top-ranked opponents in Minnesota.

During the first game of the trip, Sierra Nevada had a rough day between the lines, falling to top-ranked St. Thomas, 12-5. The Eagles redeemed themselves during the second contest, dispatching the No. 12 Minn.-Duluth, 10-2 on Saturday afternoon.

A few standout performers during the trip include Eagle goalie Eddie Erickson, who accounted for 33 saves and a 74.0 combined save percentage on the week. Attackman Jake Caliguire notched two goals and three assists while LSM Jack Witt added 16 ground balls and a goal of his own.

Steller defense was played in particular by seniors Matt Hennis and Sergio Orduna, who also found the back of the net against the Bulldogs. Freshman defender Jonathon Soliz was instrumental in improving Sierra Nevada's clearing game.

"We knew we had a tall order during the trip to Minnesota. St. Thomas is a well-oiled machine," said Sierra Nevada coach Matt Blamey. "We made a lot of mistakes, and you simply can't do that against a team of that caliber. Hat's off to the Tommies for their stellar play all night."

"Before the Duluth game we had a long meeting and film session to refocus and get our minds right," Blamey continued. "We knew that UMD is another tough team with a rich tradition. I'm very proud of how our men rebounded and executed the game plan to near perfection. We made some steps in the right direction this week and can't wait to get back at it."

Sierra Nevada returns to WCLL play this Sunday, March 26 versus Pacific. Faceoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Damonte Ranch High School in Reno.