Three Rivers Classic Photos: Robert Morris vs Ferris State

On Dec 29 Robert Morris University faced Ferris State University in the 5th annual Three Rivers Classic at PPG Paints Arena. The Robert Morris Colonials were the 2015 winners of the Confluence Cup, and were looking to win back-to-back titles. While the Ferris State Bulldogs made their first visit to Pittsburgh in program history. The Bulldogs played their first Pittsburgh game in the home rink of, Pittsburgh Penguin and Ferris State alum, Chris Kunitz.

The Bulldogs started Darren Smith, sophomore goaltender, in net. Smith recorded a 36 save shutout against Minnesota State in their last conference play on Dec 9. While, the Colonials started, freshman, Francis Marotte who has a record of 7-3-2 this season.

In the first, the Colonials outshot the Bulldogs 14-9. However, neither team would find an opening to score. Returning for the second, the Colonials would find their opportunity at the 4 minute mark. Senior forward, Daniel Leavens, would net his seventh of the season giving the Colonials the lead. Although, the Colonials outshot the Bulldogs 15-9, the Colonials could not find another opportunity to score in the second. The period ended 1-0, a Robert Morris lead.

Despite another 20 minutes on the ice, the Bulldogs didn’t get a shot past the Colonial’s Francis Marotte. The Robert Morris Colonials would take the victory 1-0 over the Ferris State Bulldogs. In all, the Colonials recorded 36 shots on goal and the Bulldogs had 32.

Francis Marotte recorded his first career shutout with the Colonials and had 32 saves in the game. Additionally, Robert Morris team captain and senior defense, Rob Mann, also recorded his 100th career game with the Colonials.

Ferris State University would play Boston College in a consolation game at 4 pm on Dec 30. Meanwhile, Robert Morris advanced to the championship game to play Quinnipiac University at 7pm on Dec 30.

Pucks and Rec’s Photo Editor and College Hockey Photographer, Jenn Hoffman, was on site at the PPG Paints Arena to capture the action. To see more from Jenn you can follow her on Twitter or Instagram.