Canisius opened the 2011-12 campaign with a 2-2 draw in an exhibition matchup against Queen’s University on Sunday.
“It was great to see this year’s team battle and compete against a new opponent,” said Canisius head coach Dave Smith. “Both teams played hard and it was exciting to see our young players get out there and gain their first experience. I’m looking forward to working on our game the next two weeks and then getting the season started in Quinnipiac.”
Torrey Lindsay and Ryan Bohrer scored for the Griffs in the tie, while all three Canisius goaltenders saw action. Dan Morrison recorded six saves in the start, while Tony Capobianco stopped all 11 shots during the second period and Keegan Asmundson posted seven saves in the last 25 minutes of action.
The Gaels opened the scoring in the first period when Jonathan Lawrance netted a goal 9:06 into the contest.
Canisius answered back with their scores in the second frame. Bohrer knotted the game at one, redirecting a high shot from the point by Kyle Gibbons. The goal less than five minutes into the period was also assisted by freshman Doug Jessey.
The Griffs then took their first lead of the game with 4:17 remaining in the second stanza on Lindsay’s power-play goal. Preston Shupe took the puck to the net and Lindsay then gained possession and found an opening for the 2-1 lead. Taylor Law added an assist.
Queen’s brought the game back to even 4:18 into the third period. Jordan Soquila found the back of the net from the slot and the game finished in the 2-all tie.
Canisius controlled possession throughout the contest, finishing with a 40-26 advantage in shots. The Griffs’ penalty kill was a perfect 3-for-3.
