HILLSBOROUGH - The Mountaineers knew that a strong start to the season would set the pace for the year, and proved that they are ready to compete in BRHC play.

Much improved this year is the Mountaineers' defense, whose size and offensive contributions look to be greatly increased.

“Size and a powerful point presence will make us a much stronger defensive squad,” said Junior defense man Lee Shields.

App State, in their opening period, came out slower than they would have liked. Despite this, they only trailed 2-1 going into the second.

In the second period Duke would add to its lead, wining the period 1-0. The Mountaineers would find some offensive zone possession in the second, most notably having several chances on a five on three.

In the third, the Mountaineers would out-shoot Duke five to eleven, despite this, a great play by Duke would tie the period 1-1 and end the game 4-2.

In Tommy Fitts' first start of the season, he made 33 saves of 37 shots for a .892 save percentage against the division 2 opponent.

“Duke used their size to their advantage, but all said we have a good squad this season,” said Fitts, the Senior goaltender.

In the second game, App would score first in a much better performance for the team. The score would stand alone before an explosion of scoring by both teams towards the end of the second into the third.

The end score would be 5-4 for the Mountaineers. The line of Nick Livy, Curt Omlie and Kyle O'Briant had a scoring explosion in the third, scoring two goals in 30 seconds. President Casey Krasen had several scoring chances, including the first goal of the game.

Captain Sal Blair summarized the weekend's accomplishments. “We have a ways to go but it is a promising beginning.”