Icecats confident of victory while on road

After coming off a 3-1-1 road trip, which included tying and beating No. 2-ranked and two-time defending national champion Ohio University, the Icecats (20-2-1) are ready for this weekend.

"That was one of the most significant road trips we've ever had," Icecat coach Leo Golembiewski said. "We've done very well against Colorado in our history."

A look at history seems to confirm Golembiewski's opinion. The Icecats hold a 41-6-1 record against the No. 25 Buffaloes (12-8-1). UA swept Colorado at the Tucson Convention Center, 6-1 and 10-0 earlier this season.

However, those two wins came only four games into the season. There is no question in Golembiewski's mind that Colorado has improved since then. Then again, the Icecats have, too.

"They've always played us tough," Golembiewski said. "We played them very early into the season, so it should be interesting."

Golembiewski said the Icecats have to cut down on mistakes and execute the style that they want in order to pick up two more wins.

"It's always tougher on the road," he said. "We're looking forward to getting home and then (to) the National Tournament."

The Icecats have proven that they have what it takes to win on the road. As the season has progressed, each individual's roles on the team have been defined and have stuck with them.

"The hardest thing about coaching is getting people to understand their roles," Golembiewski said. "This team has done that and it's made my job easier."

Seniors Joel Nusbaum, Brian Consolino, Sam Battaglia and Peter Scott have especially helped the younger team members get prepared for away games.

"The leadership that we have from these guys is great," Golembiewski said. "They've really stepped up."

The scoring stats show what a huge impact the seniors have had. Three of the four top the scoring column. Consolino leads the team in goals with 44 while also having 33 assists, Battaglia trails behind with 24 goals and 38 assists, Scott follows fourth, after junior Ben Ruston, with 15 goals and 28 assists.

"People fear our team," Golembiewski said. "I'm so impressed with these guys."

The Icecats and the Buffaloes play again tomorrow night and return home for a weekend off before hosting Arizona State to end the regular season on February 21 and 22.