Club hockey advances

By Kim Anderson

After a grueling weekend at the Pacific Collegiate Hockey Association playoffs, Fresno State’s club hockey team is feeling a little déjà vu.

Last season, after losing the first game of the PCHA playoffs, the Bulldogs battled to the championship and came out on top with a 4-3 win over the San Diego State Aztecs.

At this year’s playoffs, the Bulldogs find themselves competing for the opportunity to defend their championship after an early loss and a last-minute goal that qualifies them to play in the championship game, which is the same scenario as last season.

The first game started off with a tough 9-3 loss to College of the Canyons.

This motivated the Bulldogs to come out with intensity on Saturday against UC-San Diego and San Diego State.

“ We showed more heart than ever and played great,” goalie Kenny Ruiz said. “Now we really have to work and practice hard to defend our championship.”

The Bulldogs earned a 5-3 win over UC-San Diego and tied the Aztecs 2-2 to qualify for the PCHA championship.

The Aztecs held a 2-0 lead until the third period when the Bulldogs found the net with less than 10 minutes remaining. Down by one goal, Bulldogs senior forward Derek Miller tied it up with less than two minutes left.

This secured a spot for the Bulldogs to compete for the championship.

The Bulldogs met with College of the Canyons again for a second showdown to determine who would be in first place. The Cougars came out physical and earned the first-place spot with an 8-4 win over the Bulldogs.

“ I am hoping that we go out and play well,” Miller said. “As long as we play our best, that’s what matters.”

The Bulldogs will defend their title at the end of March in Lake Tahoe.