BOARDMAN, Ohio - The Youngstown State Men's Hockey club split their first games of the season this past weekend, losing 5-0 to Kent State but rebounding with a 6-4 victory over John Carroll. Both games were on the road.

The Penguins season opener was a tough test as Kent State entered the game ranked 20th in the first American College Hockey Association's (ACHA) nationwide poll of the season. With 12 freshmen in the lineup, the Penguins trailed early in the game and were unable to mount any offense. Meanwhile, freshman goaltender Matt Jacob was impressive in net for YSU, stopping 50 of 55 shots as he contends for the starting job.

Against John Carroll, the Penguins spotted the Blue Streaks a 3-0 lead in the first period. But YSU regrouped and battled back with five second period goals, all from freshmen, to take a 5-3 lead. Matt Feda (Parma, Ohio) and Mike Barker (Butler, PA) each scored twice and defensemen Jeremy Ragone (Parma, Ohio) added a penalty shot goal and an assist.

Senior Captain Phil Colucci (Mineral Ridge, Ohio) chipped in a power play goal in the third period to complete the scoring. Jacob shined again in goal for the Penguins, stopping 48 of 52 shots as YSU improved their record to 1-1 on the young season.

Youngstown State begins the home portion of their regular season this weekend at the Ice Zone in Boardman. The Penguins face the University of Pittsburgh this Friday and Indiana University of Pennsylvania on Saturday. Both games begin at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $5.00 for adults and $2.00 for students. For more information, visit the team's official website www.ysuhockey.com.