NIAGARA UNIV., N.Y. – The Niagara Purple Eagles received national recognition for the sixth straight week, earning a No. 18 ranking in the most recent USCHO.com Division I Poll.
Niagara (10-3-4; 9-0-1 AHA) has been ranked for the prior five weeks, cracking into the poll at the 20th position on Nov. 19. The Purps need to hold a spot for one more week to tie the program record of seven consecutive weeks (Jan 2 – Feb. 12, 2007). NU pocketed its highest ranking of the season on Dec. 10 after being slated in the 16th position.
The NCAA Tournament Pairwise Comparison Ratings has NU in the 20th spot, while the USA Today/USA Hockey Magazine College Hockey Poll has the Purps among the top receiving votes with 15.
Despite seeing its 12-game unbeaten streak cut short after the recent loss to Bowling Green, Niagara still remains unbeaten in Atlantic Hockey play to hold the top spot in the conference. The Purple Eagles have outscored their opposition 36-10 in those 10 games – second the nation behind Quinnipac, who has allowed nine goals in eight games in ECAC action, for the fewest goals allowed during conference play this season.
Niagara will look to extend its current home ice unbeaten streak to 14 games with a bout against Air Force on Saturday, Jan. 5 at 7:05 pm during Military Appreciation Day.
Tickets for Saturday’s contest are limited so contact the Niagara ticket office at 716-286-TIXX, visit www.PurpleEagles.com/Tickets or by emailing [email protected].
