BRIDGEPORT, Conn. – The Holy Cross men's hockey team defeated Sacred Heart, 2-1, with two strong rookie performances. Alex Peterson netted two goals and Matt Radomsky rattled off 35 saves, including 17 in the second period.
 
The Crusaders grabbed an early lead as Alex Peterson scored just over two minutes into the game on an unassisted effort. The Crusaders went on to kill off the lone penalty in the period and Matt Radomsky turned aside all seven shots he faced.
 
The second period was quiet as the Crusaders' defense stood strong. Sacred Heart held the shot advantage, 17-13. The Crusaders also killed their lone penalty of the period to hold the 1-0 lead through 40 minutes.
 
Nearly 15 minutes into the third period Peterson struck again to put the Crusaders ahead, 2-0. Fifty seconds later the Pioneers added a power play goal to keep the game at a one-goal differential. Holy Cross battled defensively and held Sacred Heart off the board despite playing over one minute of five on six play.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
 
1-0 HC | 1^st – 2:20 EV: Alex Peterson picked off a breakout pass from the hash marks and skated into the low slot alone to stick handle past Sacred Heart's Josh Benson.  
2-0 HC | 3^rd – 14:09 EV: With a two-on-one in front of the net, Jake Pappalardo passed around the defenseman and to Alex Peterson at the top of the crease. Peterson tipped the puck into the back of the net.
2-1 SHU | 3^rd – 14:59 PP: Matt Tugnutt scored on a pass from the point to the near post.
 
NOTES & NUMBERS

• Alex Peterson's two goals marks a career-high.
• Matt Radomsky made 35 saves.
• In the Crusaders' last three games, they have successfully killed 10 of 11 penalties.

 
UP NEXT
The Crusaders will cap off the weekend series with the Pioneers on Friday, Nov. 8 at the Hart Center at 7:05 p.m. The game is part of Holy Cross Athletics Salute to Service: all active and retired military and first responders will receive two free tickets to the game!