The Clarkson Golden Knights will face their 3rd straight AHA opponent, when they host Niagara tonight for a 7:00 pm puck drop. Niagara lost an exhibition game 3-2 at Ohio State last Sunday.The Knights first 3 opponents are now part of Atlantic Hockey America (AHA), formerly known as the Atlantic Hockey Association. Atlantic Hockey America is the result of a merger between the Atlantic Hockey Association and College Hockey America.
The Knights and Eagles last meet during the COVID shortened season of 2020. Clarkson lost a game at Niagara 4-1, but bounced back to win 6-3 at home later that month. All time, Clarkson leads 10-5-2. Niagara is coached by former Clarkson Assistant, Jason Lammars. Lammars had two stints with the Knights, first as a volunteer assistant and then as a full time assistant. The Eagles staff has strong North Country connections. Mark Phalon, Associate HC is a Canton native, a SUNY Potsdam Grad and got his coaching start at SLU. Assistant Coach, Nate Skidmore was 4 year member of the SUNY Potsdam Hockey team under former Golden Knight, Chris Bernard.
Clarkson enters the weekend after a split vs Canisius (2-1w) and RIT (3-2L). Coach JF Houle recorded his first win as a head coach at Clarkson in the win over Canisius and transfer goaltender
Ethan Langenegger stood out making 23 saves on 24 shots.
Ayrton Martino converted on a breakaway for the game winning goal and was named the ECAC Forward of the Week, presented by Bluebird Hotels.
Ryan Bottrill scored his first goal as a Golden Knight against the Tigers of RIT.
Trey Taylor also scored for the Knights, who out shot and out chanced the Tigers, but were not able to get the equalizer late in the game.
The Knights will likely be without the services of freshman defense,
Jack Sparkes, who will be serving a 1 game disqualification from the RIT game.
Tonight's game can be seen on ESPN+ and heard on B99.3 FM.
