The Alfred State College Hockey team played well on home ice on Saturday, January 31st, beating Mercyhurst University 8-5. The night was headlined by the fact it was senior night. The Pioneers had steady offensive pressure and controlled possession through quick and aggressive movement. Joshua Carney opened the scoring for the pioneers, with Joey Cinquino scoring 3 goals of his own. AJ Lugris, Brendon O'Donnell, and Jayden Taylor were also on the scoresheet. The Pioneers led the score for most of the game, ending with 8 goals to Mercyhurst's 5 goals. Alfred State Pioneers had 39 shots while Mercyhurst University had 24. 

The team seized on the goals during the second and defended well keeping the score low. The game really opened in the 3rd period when Mercyhurst pushed for late game goals to cause the Pioneers to finish the game off. It was a big win in front of an energized home crowd that included students, families, faculty, staff, and returning alumni. This significantly contributed to the atmosphere of the night. 

The win shows how Alfred State's club hockey program keeps growing. Strong teamwork and energy in front of a home crowd helped these guys win. The Pioneers hope to keep building on this success as they prepare for Alfred State's next game Away vs. Fredonia on February 7th, at 4:30 pm.