I was highly disappointed with Maine's performances at UNH this past
weekend.  I took in both games and could not believe the lack of
self-control exhibited on behalf of the Maine team.  I knew it was
going to be a tough weekend and I certainly didn't expect to win both
games.  I was just looking for a couple of reasonable efforts under
the circumstances.
 
In Maine's defense, I thought that referee Cole on Friday night should
never be allowed to do a college game ever again.  He missed more
obvious penalty calls on Friday night and called very questionable
penalties when he did blow the whistle. I hate to point to one play
as the turning point, but the penalty shot call really had a huge
impact on the game.  I thought the UNH skater was not a clear stride in
front and he never made an attempt to shoot - primarily because he lost
control of the puck.  Several UNH people admitted to me later, they
felt that a penalty should have been called but certainly not a penalty
shot.  But here is where Dan Shermerhorn made a bad situation worse,
he should have argued the point but that's it.  Now, here again is where
Cole too showed his inexperience.
A more veteran ref might have found a
better way to deal with the matter.  Has Cole been a ref long ????
As far as the rest of the period, I thought Michaud was hung out to
dry here for the most part.  He didn't look spectacular but he wasn't
getting a whole lot of help either!  Maine was certainly very flat for
the rest of the game after the penalty shot debacle - I don't think
it was just be sheer coincidence.
 
Now on Saturday night, Maine showed great character to come back after
a very shaky first period.  They were gritty and determined.  I thought
they might come away with a W but they came up a little short.  I felt
bad for Libby because he headmanned a depleted defense and the UNH
skaters were running him for most o fhis shifts during the 2 game set.
He did commit a mental error with the hitting after the whistle penalty
late in the 3rd period on Saturday but I think his frustration level
had peaked out - maybe next time he will have a cooler head.
 
I know this is going to be a tough season but if they hang in there
like they did on Saturday, the wins will come.  They are still very
talented - they just have to work hard and maybe have some fun out
there!!!
 
Kevin
 
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"Some days are diamond, some days are stone... "