Tuesday, November 1, 2011

4-3-3: Chomp On This


When Brandon Prust took on Ryane Clowe just seven seconds into tonight's game, two things ran through my mind: 1- Prust is fighting out of his weight class and is gonna get beaten pretty badly and 2- my favourite Ranger-related stat was really going to be put to the test. Well, Prust did get yanked around like a rag doll but the Rangers reeled in the road weary Sharks with a 5-2 win, keeping the stat alive. That stat? The Blueshirts are now 6-0 when Prust squares off inside the first two minutes of a game, 2-0 this season.

Staged bouts are usually exhibitions in pointless pugilism to justify the paycheques of the neanderthals taking part but there is something more with Prust. The Rangers clearly get an extra jump when he 'defends the honour of Charlestown' (to steal a line from Slap Shot). It is a wonderful thing to watch but it is too much responsibility to put on the guy's surgically repaired shoulders.

The supposedly great motivator that is John Tortorella needs to do a better job getting the boys going because before long the wear and tear will take down Prust. The Rangers might still have won this one because San Jose was clearly a step slow but, given what happened Saturday, you never know.

Late Hits:

*Ryan Callahan. Wow. Nothing else needs to be said. Just wow. Captain. Captain Wow.

*Wish Brandon Dubinsky was able to get things going like Cally has - still goalless 10 games in.

*Trade Erik Christensen right now. His trade value has never been higher, surely we can get a seventh round pick for him. Both of his assists were sweet, even if they were more motivated by his fear of taking a hit than by a desire to set up a goal. Make the deal Glen!

*Andre Deveaux played the exact game Mike Rupp was supposed to play, just without a heavyweight fight. Strong on the boards, willing to go to the crease and stay there ... If the rumours are true and Rupp gets knee surgery then the Rangers would be well served keeping Deveaux around.

*No Avery banner this game. Hopefully the Garden is filled with them Thursday if he does indeed make it back to Broadway.

*How can people not be angry when Anisimov scores the way he did in the second period? To know that Arty is capable of collecting goals like that shortside backhand is infuriating considering all of his stretches of uselessness. It's like a Bronx Tale, the saddest thing in life is wasted talent.

*On that note it was hilarious seeing Brian Boyle skating backwards away from Colin White trying to throw punches in the first period. He is so soft, and his play is so ugly he might as well be Susan Boyle ... except she has a mind-blowing ability. Boyle's abilities are limited by his reluctance to use his size.

*Colin White was -3. Haha. Devils suck.

*Stop bringing up Del Zaster's team-leading +7. Marek Malik also had a gaudy +/- and he was just as atrocious in his own end. Credit should be given to MDZ for his efforts on the offensive side of the puck in this game for actually holding the blue line once and for a few decent passes but the missed coverages, soft hits and the slew foot wipe the positives off the board. He still stinks. Kinda remarkable how direct the lineage is for awful one-way defenders in this franchise: Lefebvre->Poti->Malik->Rozsival->Redden->Del Zaster.

*There is just no need to rip into Steve Eminger or Jeff Woywitka, If not for Staal's injury, Pavel Valentenko's regression and Mikhail Pashnin's decision to stay in Russia neither one of them would be playing. And what ever happened to Tomas Kundratek?

*Solid work by Biron. Mr. X from the Blue Seats made a case for Marty to start on Thursday but that just isn't likely. Surely he will get a chance to beat Winnipeg for a second time when the teams meet on Sunday.

*The Garden had large swathes of empty seats, which will get attributed to it being Halloween. But what happens when those same seats go empty other nights?

*What will it take to get rid of Dancing Larry and the 25 Potvin Sucks chants at random, inappropriate times against an inappropriate enemy?

*Maybe his goal will help Derek Stepan break his sophomore slump but it isn't likely. But that is ok, growing pains. Can't forget that the kid played an absolute ton of games last year between preseason, regular season, playoffs and the world championships.

*PHW Three Stars
3-Dan Girardi - two assists.
2-Brandon Dubinsky - two assists.
1-Ryan Callahan - two goals and one assist.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-Prust - Sure he got hammered but he sent a message that Saturday's disaster wasn't going to happen again.
2-Dan-O - Girardi is playing above his pay grade and is doing fantastic work. But he has played less than 25 minutes just once out of the 10 games so the team has to be weary of wearing him out. It is only October November.
1-Cally - Yep. No brainer. Two fantastic goals and a perfect set-up pass to McD.



 4-3-3: Chomp On This - A Deeper Look into Boston College's Hockey Season



Hockey, a sport defined by its relentless pace, breathtaking goals, and bone-crushing checks, has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. In this article, we will dive deep into the 4-3-3 hockey formation used by the Boston College Eagles, offering a comprehensive analysis of their gameplay, strategies, and the impact this system has had on their season. Additionally, we will answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a thorough understanding of this tactical approach.

Table of Contents

The Essence of 4-3-3: A Tactical Overview
Formation Basics
Roles and Responsibilities
Boston College's Season in Review: The 4-3-3 in Action
Key Matches and Performances
Adaptability and Flexibility
The Impact of 4-3-3 on Team Dynamics
Enhancing Offense and Defense
Player Development and Adaptation
FAQs - Unraveling the Nuances of the 4-3-3 Formation
: The Art and Science of Hockey Tactics
1. The Essence of 4-3-3: A Tactical Overview

The 4-3-3 formation, often associated with soccer, has made its way into the realm of hockey. This tactical approach represents a careful balance between offensive firepower and defensive stability.

Formation Basics: In the 4-3-3 formation, four forwards, three midfielders, and three defenders work in unison to control the flow of the game. The flexibility of this formation allows for seamless transitions between offense and defense.

Roles and Responsibilities: Each player within the formation has distinct roles and responsibilities. Forwards are tasked with creating scoring opportunities, midfielders maintain control of the midfield, and defenders ensure defensive solidity.

2. Boston College's Season in Review: The 4-3-3 in Action

To truly appreciate the impact of the 4-3-3 formation, we must examine how it has been implemented by the Boston College Eagles throughout their season.

Key Matches and Performances: Highlighting specific games where the 4-3-3 system played a pivotal role, we'll explore how this formation influenced the outcome.

Adaptability and Flexibility: The beauty of the 4-3-3 formation lies in its adaptability. We'll discuss how Boston College adjusted their tactics based on the opponent and game situation.

3. The Impact of 4-3-3 on Team Dynamics

Hockey is more than just Xs and Os; it's about the chemistry and dynamics within the team. Let's delve into how the 4-3-3 formation has affected Boston College's team dynamics.

Enhancing Offense and Defense: The balanced nature of the 4-3-3 allows Boston College to transition seamlessly between offensive surges and defensive stability. We'll explore how this impacts the team's overall performance.

Player Development and Adaptation: Certain players thrive within the 4-3-3 system, while others have had to adapt their style of play. Understanding these player dynamics is essential to success.

4. FAQs - Unraveling the Nuances of the 4-3-3 Formation

Let's address some frequently asked questions about the 4-3-3 formation in hockey:

Q1: Is the 4-3-3 formation a common tactical approach in hockey?

While it's more commonly associated with soccer, the 4-3-3 formation has gained traction in hockey due to its adaptability and versatility.

Q2: What are the primary advantages of the 4-3-3 formation in hockey?

The formation allows for a balanced approach to offense and defense, making it suitable for teams that want to maintain control over the game's tempo.

Q3: How do players adapt to the 4-3-3 formation?

Adaptation varies from player to player. Forwards may need to focus on both offensive and defensive responsibilities, while defenders may need to engage in offensive plays.

5. Conclusion: The Art and Science of Hockey Tactics

The 4-3-3 formation in hockey is a testament to the sport's ever-evolving nature. As teams like the Boston College Eagles continue to experiment with different tactical approaches, we witness the fusion of art and science on the ice. The 4-3-3 formation exemplifies this fusion, offering a strategic canvas upon which players and coaches paint their vision of success. Understanding the nuances of this tactical approach not only deepens our appreciation of the game but also provides insights into the ever-evolving world of hockey strategies. Whether you're a die-hard hockey enthusiast or a casual observer, the 4-3-3 formation represents the dynamic nature of the sport we all love.







 4-3-3: Chomp On This - Unpacking the Hockey East Action



College hockey season is in full swing, and the Hockey East conference is delivering a thrilling display of skill, teamwork, and passion on the ice. In this article, we'll delve into the action-packed 4-3-3 formation of games in Hockey East, breaking down the exciting moments, star players, and standout teams that have made the season unforgettable so far. Whether you're a dedicated fan or a newcomer to college hockey, it's time to chomp on the exciting highlights of this hockey season.

Table of Contents

The 4-3-3 Formation: Unpacking the Format

The Four Weeks
The Three Major Storylines
The Three Emerging Stars
Week 1: Setting the Tone

Memorable Matchups
Standout Performances
Week 2: Intensity Heats Up

Marquee Showdowns
Breakout Players
Week 3: Drama and Overtime

Overtime Thrillers
Rising Teams
Week 4: Shaping the Playoff Picture

Key Results
Playoff Implications
FAQs: Unpacking the 4-3-3 Formation in Hockey East

1. The 4-3-3 Formation: Unpacking the Format

The Four Weeks

The 4-3-3 formation in Hockey East refers to four exciting weeks of matchups, each packed with three major storylines that captivate fans and keep them on the edge of their seats. This format has become a tradition that showcases the depth and competitiveness of the conference.

The Three Major Storylines

Each week of the 4-3-3 formation brings three major storylines that define the action on the ice. These storylines range from thrilling rivalries to breakout performances by individual players and teams. They add layers of intrigue to every game.

The Three Emerging Stars

In the 4-3-3 formation, we can't help but notice the emergence of three standout players who are making their mark on the conference. These emerging stars are not only putting up impressive numbers but also capturing the hearts of fans with their passion and dedication.

2. Week 1: Setting the Tone

Memorable Matchups

Week 1 set the tone for the season with unforgettable matchups. Rivalries were reignited, and newcomers to the conference made their presence felt. The intensity on the ice was palpable, and fans were treated to a hockey spectacle.

Standout Performances

During Week 1, several players delivered standout performances that left a lasting impact. From clutch goals to game-saving saves, these players showcased their skills and set the bar high for the rest of the season.

3. Week 2: Intensity Heats Up

Marquee Showdowns

Week 2 saw marquee showdowns that had fans on the edge of their seats. High-stakes games between top teams brought out the best in both sides, and the battles on the ice were nothing short of exhilarating.

Breakout Players

In Week 2, some players burst onto the scene with breakout performances. They went from promising talents to key contributors for their teams, earning recognition and admiration from fans and pundits alike.

4. Week 3: Drama and Overtime

Overtime Thrillers

Week 3 will be remembered for its thrilling overtime matchups. Games that extended beyond regulation time provided heart-stopping moments and showcased the resilience and determination of the teams involved.

Rising Teams

Week 3 also highlighted the ascent of rising teams in the conference. These teams, often considered underdogs, proved their mettle by challenging established powerhouses and solidifying their presence in the playoff conversation.

5. Week 4: Shaping the Playoff Picture

Key Results

Week 4's key results had a significant impact on the playoff picture. Teams jockeyed for position, and every point became crucial in the race for postseason berths. The competition intensified, and no game was a given.

Playoff Implications

With the regular season entering its final stretch, the playoff implications of Week 4 were profound. Teams that secured crucial victories moved closer to their postseason dreams, while others faced the pressure of must-win situations.

6. FAQs: Unpacking the 4-3-3 Formation in Hockey East

Q1: What makes the 4-3-3 format in Hockey East unique?

A1: The 4-3-3 format is unique because it condenses a month's worth of thrilling matchups and storylines into four action-packed weeks. It offers fans a concentrated dose of college hockey excitement.

Q2: Are there any upcoming games or matchups in the 4-3-3 format that fans should be excited about?

A2: Fans should keep an eye out for marquee matchups and rivalry games in the coming weeks. These games often carry intense emotions and playoff implications.

Q3: Which teams and players have been the biggest surprises in the 4-3-3 formation this season?

A3: Several teams and emerging stars have been pleasant surprises, exceeding expectations and making a significant impact on the conference. Their performances have added an element of unpredictability to the season.

Q4: How can fans stay updated on the latest Hockey East action and 4-3-3 formation updates?

A4: Fans can stay updated by following official Hockey East conference websites, social media channels, and college hockey news outlets. These sources provide information on game results, standings, and key storylines.

Q5: What are the playoff implications of the 4-3-3 format in Hockey East?

A5: The 4-3-3 format sets the stage for intense playoff races, with teams jockeying for position to secure postseason berths. Every game in this format has playoff implications, making each matchup a crucial step toward postseason success.



The 4-3-3 formation in Hockey East has provided fans with an exhilarating month of college hockey action. From memorable matchups to standout performances and rising teams, the format has showcased the depth and excitement of the conference. As we look ahead to the remaining weeks, one thing is certain: the 4-3-3 formation will continue to deliver thrilling moments, shaping the playoff picture and keeping fans hungry for more. So, chomp on this exciting college hockey action as the season unfolds.




No comments:

Post a Comment