Jeremy Keyes delivered when it mattered most, recording a goal and an assist to lead SUNY-Oswego past the University of Delaware 3-2 in overtime Friday night at Deborah F. Stanley Arena. The Lakers (2-1) needed extra time to secure their second victory of the young ACHA season, extending a back-and-forth battle that showcased stellar goaltending on both ends.
Benjamin Di Fiore was the story between the pipes for Oswego, turning aside 40 of 42 shots for a sparkling .952 save percentage to backstop the Lakers’ victory. His counterpart Timothy Briley nearly matched him save for save, stopping 37 of 40 attempts (.925 save percentage) in a losing effort for the Blue Hens. The goaltending duel kept both teams locked in a defensive struggle that required overtime to determine a winner.
Nolan Sullivan and Brayden Palfi provided the other goals for the Lakers, while Zach Derito added an assist in the victory. Delaware got goals from Anthony Mule and Michael Spinelli, with Ryan Warner, Noah Goozh, and Austin Vecchio each contributing assists. The physical nature of the contest was evident with Goozh and Vecchio combining for six penalty minutes for the Blue Hens, while Sava Makarenko and Carsyn Crawford each drew two-minute penalties for Oswego.
The victory gives SUNY-Oswego early momentum in what has become a competitive series between these ACHA programs. The teams split their previous meeting earlier this season, with Delaware taking a 3-2 decision on October 11, making Friday’s overtime result a fitting continuation of their closely contested rivalry.
