Robert Morris Colonials vs Niagara University Purple Eagles on 14 February
On February 14, the NCAA tournament will host a thrilling hockey showdown between the Robert Morris Colonials and the Niagara University Purple Eagles. The game, scheduled to take place at Robert Morris' home rink, will be an important contest in the ongoing race for supremacy in the conference. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance this season, but their current forms leave much to be decided. With everything at stake for postseason positions, this matchup promises to be a spectacle of intense forechecking, high-speed plays, and crucial special teams battles.
Robert Morris Colonials: Tactical Approach and Current Form
The Robert Morris Colonials come into this game with a solid tactical structure built on speed, aggressive forechecking, and a strong power play. Over their last five games, they have shown inconsistency but demonstrated the ability to dominate when fully synchronized. Their primary strength is their defensive zone pressure, with forwards engaging quickly on the puck and forcing turnovers. In transition, they rely on quick counter-attacks and generating chances off the rush, making them dangerous in the neutral zone.
Key statistics reflect their overall effectiveness—Robert Morris boasts a strong shot-on-goal rate (averaging 35 shots per game), and their power play efficiency stands at 21%, a solid figure in this competitive environment. On the penalty kill, they have been efficient but vulnerable to teams with strong puck movement, with an 80% success rate in shutting down opponents’ power plays.
Among the standout players, forward Jonathan McBride is the engine of the team, a constant presence in both the offensive and defensive zones. His playmaking abilities and on-ice vision make him a key factor in their offensive setups. However, defenseman Tyler Blackwell, who has been sidelined with an injury, will be missed in key defensive situations, potentially shifting the balance in the defensive zone.
Niagara University Purple Eagles: Tactical Approach and Current Form
The Niagara University Purple Eagles, like Robert Morris, have been a bit unpredictable in recent weeks. Their approach is more methodical, focusing on controlling the puck and maintaining possession in the offensive zone. They are less reliant on speed compared to the Colonials but excel at cycling the puck along the boards and wearing down opponents' defenses. They will look to dictate the tempo of the game through smart passing and keeping the puck in the offensive zone as much as possible.
Niagara’s shooting statistics are impressive, as they average 30 shots per game, but their power play efficiency has been an area of concern, sitting at just 16%. Defensively, their penalty kill has been their strength, operating at a solid 85% rate. This strong penalty-killing unit will be crucial against the Colonials' potent power play, and any advantage on special teams could swing the game in their favor.
Offensively, forward Tyler Harrison has been their top scorer, racking up points with his lethal shot and ability to create space in high-danger areas. However, their most reliable presence has been goalie Ethan Scott, who has posted a .918 save percentage on the season and has been the backbone of their defensive system. He will need to be at his best in this crucial game, as Robert Morris can quickly put pucks on net if given the chance.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
Looking at the last three encounters between these two teams, Robert Morris holds a slight advantage, having won two of the last three meetings. However, the games have often been tight, with Niagara finding ways to disrupt Robert Morris’ game plan, particularly through their disciplined defensive play and the stellar goaltending of Ethan Scott. The most recent game ended in a 3-2 victory for Robert Morris, where they capitalized on a late power-play goal.
Historically, these teams have had a healthy rivalry, with close matches full of back-and-forth action. The psychological edge in this matchup seems to lie with Robert Morris, but the Purple Eagles have proven they can take games from higher-ranked teams when they play a patient, structured game.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
One of the most crucial battles will be between the two team’s power plays versus their respective penalty kills. Robert Morris’ power play will look to exploit Niagara’s relatively weaker penalty-kill, while the Purple Eagles will aim to shut down the Colonials' high-speed transition and capitalize on their own power-play opportunities.
Another decisive matchup will be in the crease. Robert Morris' goaltender, Lucas Pappas, has been steady, but his ability to handle the high-volume shots that Niagara generates will be a major factor. Ethan Scott will also be key for Niagara; his ability to stay sharp against the fast forecheck of Robert Morris will determine if the Purple Eagles can stay competitive throughout the game.
The physical battle in the neutral zone will be key as well. If Niagara can keep Robert Morris from entering their zone with speed, they’ll be able to slow down their offense and control the flow of the game. The Colonials, on the other hand, will want to force turnovers and break out quickly with the puck.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Both teams are highly motivated, with playoff positioning on the line. Expect a fast-paced start, with Robert Morris pressing the play in the early stages, looking to set the tone with their forecheck and speed. Niagara will likely adopt a more patient approach, waiting for opportunities to counterattack and capitalize on Robert Morris' mistakes.
It’s expected that the game will be tightly contested, with both teams taking advantage of power-play opportunities. A key factor will be goaltending—if both goalies are on their game, we could see a close, low-scoring affair. However, Robert Morris’ offensive depth and ability to generate shots might ultimately tip the balance in their favor.
Prediction: Robert Morris 4–3 Niagara (in regulation). Expect a high-energy battle, but Robert Morris’ offensive depth will be too much for Niagara to handle over the course of 60 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This game will come down to which team can impose their style. Can Niagara stifle Robert Morris’ transition game and capitalize on their power-play opportunities, or will the Colonials’ offensive pressure and forechecking prove too much for the Purple Eagles to handle? With the postseason approaching, every point counts, and this matchup will be crucial in deciding who gets the edge as the NCAA tournament heats up.
The question this game will answer: Can Niagara’s defense and goaltending contain Robert Morris’ offense, or will the Colonials break through with their fast, aggressive style?
