Freshman Jonathan Ornelas netted the game-winning goal in the waning seconds of overtime as the Red team defeated the White in the annual Red/White Scrimmage at Houston Field House on Saturday.
The White team, composed of mostly the juniors and seniors, got out to an early 4-1 lead after the first of two 25 minute halves, but allowed to the younger Red club to chip away at the margin, eventually leading to a 4-4 tie at the end of the second half.
Ornelas’ eventual game-winner came after junior captain Brad Farynuk was stripped of the puck near his own blue line, leaving Ornelas with a clear path to net. Ornelas struck quickly there after with a laser past the goaltender for the win.
Following the game, the men’s hockey team was joined by the women’s squad for the annual Skate with the Engineers. Students, faculty, and local residents all joined the team for a skate around the recently refinished ice. Players of both squads also chatted with and signed autographs for eager youngsters.
The Engineers will open the 2004-2005 season this weekend in Omaha, Neb. against Merrimack in the Maverick Stampede Classic. The game, which begins at 5 pm, will be broadcast on WRPI 91.5 FM. Depending on the game’s outcome against Merrimack, Rensselaer will be in the tournament championship or the consolation game. RPI will play either the University of Connecticut or the University of Nebraska-Omaha the following day.
