Hokies Snap Four-Game Skid with Road Win Over Terms

LAUREL, M.D. - After a weeklong break to refresh the legs and minds of those on the Virginia Tech Men's Ice Hockey team, the club returned to the ice this weekend as they hit the road to take on the Maryland Terrapins. In what proved to be a turnaround performance led by captain Gavin Peduzzi's two-goal performance, the Hokies snapped a four-game losing streak Friday night with a critical opening series victory.

The Hokies came into this weekend struggling. Losers of four straight contests to Liberty and UNC-Wilmington, Tech's shortcomings could not have come at a more convenient time, with a week-long break in between road contests. The much-needed rest and practice developed by this veteran-savvy squad propelled the Hokies on Friday night to a team with shades of last season.

After a long, five-hour drive from Blacksburg, Virginia, to Maryland, the team finally arrived at The Garden Ice Center ready for battle against the Terrapins, a team many opponents this season have struggled to defeat. Tech's offense flourished out of the gate, generating numerous shots on net, with all cylinders clicking on defense and special teams. Sophomore Austin Hryn struck gold with his second goal of the season late on the power play in the first, giving the Hokies a 1-0 lead at the end of the period.

As much as Tech dazzled on offense in the second period with an aggressive forecheck, the penalties, mistakes, and most importantly, consequences started to add up quickly for both teams. After a skirmish in front of the net resulted in four Hokies and three Terrapins in the penalty box, a 5-on-4 power play provided Maryland the opportunity to capitalize and tie the game, a chance that was taken and seized by James Botti to make the score 1-1. However, Tech would strike back with two power play goals of their own, courtesy of senior captain Gavin Peduzzi. Peduzzi, the program's all-time leading scorer, finished the night in his home state with two goals, placing him tied with Ethan Garlock for the team lead with six this season.

The third period saw Tech dominate the time of possession in the offensive zone, keeping pressure on Maryland's defense to cover tough odd-man situations of which were overcome with outstanding netminding play by Terps Freshman Jack Faricy. On the other end, Hokies senior goaltender Ian Kee held Maryland to only one goal, thanks to the defense in large part, providing key shot blocking and poke-check plays.

With the win, the Hokies snap a four-game losing streak and enter Saturday's game with Maryland with a 7-5-1 record through 13 games. In terms of league play, Friday's contest did not count towards the point system and overall standings for the ACCHL. That said, the prize of the weekend becomes Saturday when points are at stake for both teams trying to push their way towards the top of the table, especially with the Showcase looming next weekend.

You can watch the game live on the Virginia Tech Hockey Network on YouTube, starting at 9:20 pm with our pregame show. Fans can also stay updated on the team's social media pages.