Koocher’s fifth career goal lifts Syracuse past Robert Morris, helps Flanagan become seventh women’s coach to hit milestone
PITTSBURGH – Freshman Brynn Koocher lit the lamp five minutes into the third period Saturday afternoon to help Syracuse (7-15-1, 6-3-1) top College Hockey America (CHA) foe Robert Morris (13-9-2,7-3-0 CHA), 1-0, and record head coach Paul Flanagan’s 400th career victory. Koocher’s fifth of the year makes Flanagan the seventh collegiate women’s coach to hit the 400-win mark, and just the second in the CHA. The shutout was the second of junior goaltender Allison Small’s career.
“Yesterday was a tough game so to come back today and get the game-winning goal was an amazing feeling,” Koocher said.
“We needed this win and those two points today,” Flanagan said. “Last night we knew we underperformed and ran into a buzzsaw. To bounce back today with a real determined effort from start to finish was great. We played with confidence and with each other and that’s what we need. This was a great road win for our program. From goaltending to how our seven defenders and 11 forwards played, everyone contributed.
“In terms of the milestone, it’s just a longevity thing that’d I’ve been here,” Flanagan added. “It’s always special when you hit a milestone, but it’s just another win and to me it’s more special to be with this group. I’m more about the group and the seniors and how many wins they have. To me that means a lot—to see how many wins they can get.”
“It’s really nice to know that we as a team were a part of this milestone,” Koocher said. “It’s a really cool experience for him and I’m really happy that my play and my linemates were able to contribute to that.”
How it happened:
Chances were limited for the Orange in the opening two periods, Syracuse sending just 13 shots on frame in the opening 40 minutes. Small made multiple big-time saves to keep the score level as RMU worked to create scoring chances throughout the game.
Koocher broke the stalemate five minutes into the third when she buried the puck off a second chance near the crease, Abby Moloughney and Victoria Klimek assisting in the play. RMU sent 15 more shots toward goal, but Syracuse’s defense never faltered to get the series finale. Small ended the night with 32 saves, four shy of her career high.
Up Next at Tennity
The Orange are hosting Youth Weekend Jan. 24-25 when CHA foe Penn State comes to town. The weekend features a pizza giveaway, along with the start of a tournament for EA Sports’ NHL 20, the winner of which will receive a copy of the video game.
Save the Date
Fans once again have the chance to skate outside with the Orange as Syracuse is hosting an open skate at the Clinton Square Ice Rink. ‘Cuse takes to the ice Monday, Jan. 20 from 4-6 p.m. In addition to skating, fans will have opportunities to collect autographs and giveaway items. Skating costs $3 for adults and $2 for kids.
