Halpin's Hot Takes

1. 11-4 win over the Bear Claw last night. What can you say about the overall team effort in the win? Offensively, the shots we were taking looked great. Even some of the veteran goalies out there would have difficulty with some of the ones they put it. Movement wise, we looked better. We seemed to have our heads up looking for that next pass. Defensively, I know I shouted more than a half a dozen times "good defense" to the boys as they either took away a chance or blocked a shot. I don't think I saw a shot till late in the first period.

2. They were only down 5-2 late in the 2nd period. Were you getting worried at all after they scored their 2nd goal? Those types of moments are certainly ones where tides can change. It did feel a little different out there once that happened. Although I felt that change, I knew we just needed to tighten up and get back on track with what we know we can do. I think we did a great job at snuffing that out quick

3. Jaron Buffone had a boat load of chances to score against you. How do you approach a shooter when you are the only one left standing in their way of a goal? The day before I was scouting him out down at the Brockway courts before the big storm. I picked up on a few of his moves prior to the big game. But once I see that play break down and see that it's a 1v1; you have to just psych yourself up, stay big, and hope you make the right move first. Jaron is a hell of a player. He threw a lot at me. That one top post saved me from what would have been a beautiful goal.

4. With the win, you guys get at least 2 more games against the Invaders. Are you looking forward to the challenge or kind of dreading the thoughts of facing all that firepower that they have? I cannot wait to play against them. I'd much rather work my butt off in between the iron each week than wonder when the next shot may come. The invaders deserve the spot they are in but that doesn't mean we are going to lay down either. I think I can say for each one of us, we are ready for the challenge.

5. Llew was a little nervous going into the game after he learned the Bear Claw’s line up. How do you think some of their guys (and girl) did overall and do you think there is any potential for the goalie (try to be nice)? I was too. I have not played against some of them so the guys did their best to let me know what to expect. They have a good squad over there. It's a shame they weren't able to play throughout the season together. Brian, you need some new leg pads or a new roll of duct tape for next season! Even with those leg pads holding on for dear life, you made some big saves! I definitely think there's some potential there, if you decide to keep playing in net.

6. Is it harder to go into a game knowing you are favored to win pretty easily or do you try to focus the same way no matter who you play? I would be surprised if any goaltender, not just myself, had a different mindset going into any game. Favored or not, anything can happen out there and I certainly don't want to be the reason why my team didn't win that favored game. I don’t want to lose because I mistakenly took a team lightly. You have to be ready to ruin someone's night, no matter who you play.

7. Colonials and Yeti ---- Got any predictions for that series from what you know about those 2 teams? I don't stick around too long after the game because the beer is calling my name at the club afterwards, but I do know that the Colonials beat the Yeti to close out the season. My prediction is Yeti over Colonials in game 3. It really could go to either team so it's just who decides to show up.

8. Are you planning to play for a team in the summer league? I do want to play. Either in the comp or non-comp but I just don't have time to do both. I have been seeing if I can convince a few old heads to come out of retirement before I make any decisions on what to do yet.

9. This has been your first season back for a long time. How nice is it to be back after such a long lay off? I've been loving it. I've missed competing. After the non-comp summer games into this season, it finally feels like a lot of the rust has been knocked off.

10. Got any other random thoughts going through your head after last nights game? Austin drives us next week to the court. I wonder how long I'll have to suit up before the game this time.