The space limitations of the print edition kept me from giving Tyler O’Brien the “ink” he deserved for his first career win Saturday night. Here’s more on his big night as part of Emptying the Notebook.

Big night for O’Brien

As big a night as it was for freshman Andrew Hamburg (first goal, first three points as a Tiger) it was even bigger for junior goalie Tyler O’Brien, who recorded his first career win.

O’Brien, the No. 3 last season, hadn’t played since a 4-3 loss to Northeastern in the second game of the season-opening series.

“He looked confident out there,” coach Scott Owens said. “He played very well fro a guy who hadn’t played since Oct. 10. That’s a big help for us to have him play like that.”

It was very satisfying for O’Brien.

“The last two years I’ve worked hard and Coach gave me a chance. It’s an unbelievable feeling to get the win,” O’Brien said.

O’Brien benefited from an improved defensive effort by the skaters in front of him.

“It was a complete 180 from last night,” O’Brien said. “The guys worked hard and played well in front of me, especially the D (defensive) corps.”

Five even-strength goals a good start

The three first-period goals were a strong start for the Tigers (9-2-1), which had relied on its power play to pull out close wins this season.

“We came out with really good jump,” Owens said.

The three 5-on-5 scores gave CC (9-2-1, 6-1-1) five on the weekend. Improving the even-strength points production has been an emphasis of late.

“It’s a good step,” Owens said. “We still have a few things to work on.”

Sweatt ups his game Saturday

Senior Bill Sweatt looked great out on the ice Saturday, skating well and attacking the net with vigor. His two goals and assist in the first period were a big reason CC took control in its fifth straight win.

“He looked hungrier,” Owens said. “When he plays like that, he’s a difference-maker.”

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