By Amanda Trusky

Villanova defeated both Rowan University and United States Naval Academy this past week, maintaining their undefeated league game play.

Rowan University visited Hatfield Ice Thursday night. Rowan scored first with a goal about 5 minutes into the period. With just 15 seconds left in the first, Villanova tied the game 1-1 with a goal by Timothy Matthews to wrap up the period.

About halfway through the second period, Jack Skaggs of Villanova scored the last goal of the game. There was no scoring in the third period, and Villanova triumphed over Rowan University 2-1.

Villanova played their third league game Saturday night at Hatfield Ice against Navy.

“There is something different about the mentality of heading into a league game compared to others,” said Kenny Orlando, head coach of Villanova. “It’s more exciting and there’s a feeling of desperation.”

Navy opened strong in the first period, scoring two goals. With about a minute left in the period, Villanova made the scoreboard with a goal by George Clark.

Villanova pulled ahead at the start of second period with two goals, scored by Jack Skaggs and Sean Fitzgibbons. Navy tied up the game 3-3 with a goal about 5 minutes into the second period. Villanova dominated the rest of the period by racking in four more goals, one by Troy Donahue, two by Timothy Matthews, and one by Jack Skaggs.

Navy scored three goals in the third period, but was unable to catch Villanova’s lead. Villanova brought home the 7-6 win, making them 3-0 for league games.

“Our players have really come to play for these first three league games,” Orlando said. “But, we need to be better at playing with a lead and closing out games, especially the league games.”

This weekend, Villanova will play two league games against Penn State Berks. Come support the team on Saturday at 7:40 p.m. at Hatfield Ice and Sunday at 1 p.m at Body Zone in Reading, PA. Go IceCats!