Considering their 45-19-2 all-time record against the Army Black Knights, the Princeton Tigers pounced into very familiar territory Saturday afternoon, extending their winning streak in front of a sold-out crowd at West Point’s Tate Rink inside the Holleder Center.
The last time these two teams faced off was on Jan. 30, 2024, which resulted in a 4-3 overtime home win for the Tigers at Baker Rink. Army trailed the entire game and then forced an overtime, scoring with 5.7 seconds left in regulation to tie the game.
Going into the day’s matchup, the Tigers knew their task at hand.
Despite a slow start, a penalty on West Point’s Jon Bell for slashing and the man advantage gave the Tigers the confidence they needed. Rookie Jake Manfre was able to get one on net resulting in a power play goal for the Tigers assisted by Noah de la Durantaye and David Jacobs.
Manfre’s message was loud and clear after recording his fourth goal of the season. The freshman from Kings Park, N.Y., was able to record his first collegiate assist and goal within the first four games of the season. The rookie’s four-point weekend (including two power play goals and an assist in the Tigers’ 3-1 win over Ohio State) at the end of last month earned him ECAC Rookie of the Week honors and ECAC Rookie of the Month honors for November.
De la Durantaye is also a familiar name on the score sheet. The returning senior has already recorded two game winning goals this season. He is tied for 2nd in game winning goals by a defenseman in the nation.
The second period went scoreless as a goal by West Point was reversed on a successfully challenge by the Tigers.
Both teams highlighted an immensely strong offensive effort in the third period, but, unfortunately, the third period finished scoreless. Final shots on goal tallied closely at 24-23 in favor of Army.
The Tigers can thank starting goaltender Arthur Smith for hindering the offensive efforts from Army. Smith had an impeccable performance in net, making 24 saves. Smith is projected to have yet another spectacular season, as just last year he was named honorable mention All-Ivy as a freshman. His hard work reflected in his 2.26 GAA, .926 save percentage and 5-1-0 record against Ivy opponents last season. Smith is now 5-1-0 overall and currently ranks 2nd in the ECAC with his .942 save percentage.
This was the last matchup of 2023 for the Tigers, and they look to continue their win streak in the new year.
