Redhawks Outlast Bobcats in High-Intensity Battle

On Friday, November 7, the Montclair State Redhawks earned a hard-fought 4–3 victory over the Quinnipiac University Bobcats at Floyd Hall Arena. The win marked a crucial bounce-back for Montclair after last week’s loss to West Point, while Quinnipiac dropped its second straight contest.

First Period: Early Momentum Swings

The opening frame set an intense tone. Quinnipiac emphasized puck control and selective shooting, while Montclair relied on pace and puck movement to stretch the Bobcat defense.

A Quinnipiac penalty midway through the period opened the door for the Redhawks’ power play, and forward Braden Ryan capitalized to put Montclair on the board first. The goal was the result of sharp passing and traffic in front of the net — a strategy the Redhawks leaned on throughout the game.

The Bobcats responded about five minutes later, converting on a loose rebound to tie it at one. Both teams traded penalties and shot attempts for the remainder of the period, but neither side could break the deadlock.

Second Period: Redhawks Regain Control

The second period belonged largely to Montclair State. Although the Bobcats struck early to take a 2–1 lead, the Redhawks’ offensive chemistry soon took over.

Ryan Douglas, assisted by Braden Ryan, evened the score with a perfectly timed shot through a screen, shifting the momentum back toward the home side. Two minutes later, forward Michael Sadowski, with another assist from Ryan, found the net to give Montclair a 3–2 advantage.

The Redhawks’ puck movement improved significantly in the middle frame, and they began to dictate the pace of play. Their forecheck disrupted Quinnipiac’s breakout, and they outworked the Bobcats in transition.

Third Period: Ryan Delivers the Decisive Blow

The final 20 minutes were a test of endurance and execution. Quinnipiac applied consistent offensive pressure and eventually broke through midway through the period to tie the game at 3–3.

Montclair remained composed, focusing on defensive structure and counterattack opportunities. With just over three minutes left, Braden Ryan struck again — burying a rebound for his second goal of the night and the eventual game-winner.

Despite a late push from Quinnipiac, the Redhawks’ defense and goaltending held strong to secure the win.

Goaltending and Key Stats

Goalie Allen Cacaj was a difference-maker for Montclair State, stopping 35 of 38 shots and keeping the team steady during extended defensive zone time. Quinnipiac’s Kenneth Luttman faced fewer chances but still made 14 saves on 18 shots.

The Redhawks made the most of their limited opportunities, scoring on both even strength and special teams. Their power play and neutral zone play showed marked improvement compared to last week’s matchup against West Point.

Looking Ahead

The Redhawks (now improving their midseason form) will travel to Fairfield, Connecticut, on Saturday, November 15, to take on the Sacred Heart University Pioneers at 8:45 p.m.

Montclair returns home on Friday, November 21, for a rematch against West Point, aiming to carry their momentum into the second half of the season.