Photo courtesy of Cornell Athletic Communications
Losing in overtime is quite the stomach churner in hockey, but losing on a short-handed goal is simply downright painful.
When the Big Red lost to Mercyhurst College on that fateful Nov. 2, the Big Red might have set the perfect precedence: make that the last feeling of defeat they should encounter for the rest of the season.
And so the Big Red have embarked on a self-fulfilling prophecy, boasting a 19-0-1 record since the loss to Mercyhurst.
The Big Red had won 18 straight before snapping that streak in 3-3 tie against Clarkson Feb. 4. But it’s still not an ole’ “L” in the loss column.
The Big Red’s 2-1 victory over St. Lawrence Saturday night ensured an outright ECAC championship for the Big Red with four games left in the regular season.
Add an automatic number one seed in the ECAC Tournament, and the Big Red appear to have forgotten what it means to lose.
So while losing remains about as distant a memory as the last time you watched The Wonder Years, the Big Red control their own destiny on their journey to the promise land: an NCAA Title.
An unprecedented run last year that resulted in the fitting euphemism “National runner-up,” the Big Red are vying for that number one spot.
After all, isn’t second place the first loser?
In the championship game, there are only two options: win or lose. Maybe Big Red coach Doug Derraugh will have his coaching staff go tie-less to reiterate the concept.
Most likely not, but in a way, a self-fulfilling prophecy illuminates Lynah Rink, and it’s up to the Big Red to keep that light glowing.