Tim Whitehead Strong Quotations

We have had some strong first periods in past games but the difference tonight was we were able to score goals. Getting the early goals was important tonight. Ben Bishop had a strong second period in which things could have turned. That was a big reason why we won the game. Tomorrow night will give us another opportunity and promises to be an exciting but challenging game.

Right now, giving them both the opportunity to play is in the team's best interest. We will need them both to be strong all the way through. When one plays well, the other seems to play well. I have sensed a very good competitive relationship there. They are helping each other to improve and inspiring each other with their play. That's what you want, a healthy-competitive relationship.

He might have been the best player among both teams. He is so strong on the puck. He's great at keeping possession of it. He'll fend off opponents by using his body and shifting his weight. He'll enable us to sustain a power play another 20 seconds by winning a loose puck and controlling it.

Last year our backs were to the wall and we had to go against a very strong Lowell team for four games and we did it. We have been in this situation before and been able to rise up to the challenge. As for the pressure, it doesn't bother me because I put more pressure on myself than anyone could put on me. I imagine most of our players are the same.

Other than BC and BU, the other four teams are in the same scenario as far as their positioning in the league and nationally: Vermont, ourselves, Providence and New Hampshire. Those are all very strong teams.

The bottom line is that we know they are a real strong team, a real talented team and they are playing very well down the stretch. I think it is going to be just a great hockey game.

I am proud of the way the guys played tonight in a challenging situation. We feel good about coming out of the weekend with four points in the league standings. It was a tougher challenge than last night, but we were able to put forth a consistent effort all three periods. Ben Bishop was fabulous tonight and really strong in net. He made some great defensive stops and also played the puck extremely well.