Intrasquad game first action for 'M' icers

The Michigan hockey team killed itself Saturday night at Yost Ice Arena - but what else would you expect from the annual Blue/White game?

Michigan's Blue team slammed the door on its White counterpart, 6-3, in the only full scrimmage in front of fans before next week's road opener against Minnesota.

And like exhibitions played in any sport, defense was not a key factor.

"It was good to get in a game environment," Michigan coach Red Berenson said. "I didn't like all the goals against. The defensemen got toasted a couple of times."

In years past, the contest served as an exhibition for Michigan fans, however this year's game had a different tone. The exhibition was a coming-out party of sorts for Michigan's nine freshmen, who have not played in Yost.

"I was a little nervous - it definitely was a learning experience," Michigan freshman Josh Langfeld said. "It was helpful for me."

Despite Langfeld's nerves, however, the 6-foot-3 forward attempted to make quite a first impression on both Michigan fans and coaches.

Langfeld's first goal came midway through the second period, giving the Blue squad a commanding 4-2 lead. The goal was the last of three in the period for the Blue team - the first two coming in power play situations.

Langfeld added a second goal in the third period while fellow freshman and White team member Bill Trainor equaled that achievement in the same period, scoring his second goal of the game.

While some players found it easy, however, others faced difficulties in the exhibition.

In addition to having an undermanned unit in front of him on a number of occasions, White goaltender Marty Turco, Michigan's starting netminder, suffered from the high number of defensive turnovers on his end of the ice.

The Blue squad capitalized on these opportunities, converting two of its five power play opportunities.

On the other side of the ice, Blue goaltender Gregg Malicke was impressive, facing 23 shots while only allowing two goals.

According to Berenson, strides must be taken to prepare his defensive unit for next weekend.

"The defense is still looking to find themselves," Berenson said. "As a unit, we're still a long way from being the defense we want to be.

"We'll get better every week."

Michigan captain Matt Herr reiterated those sentiments.

We "definitely see things we need to work on - things you don't want next Friday," he said.

The Wolverines will be lining up against foes, not friends, when they take on Minnesota next weekend.

10-06-97