Though it's still early in the season, Stony Brook has given up double-digit goals only once this year. And in this low-scoring affair, goaltending made the difference.
Stony Brook goaltender Brendan Callahan had five saves in the opening 15 minutes to keep the Seawolves down one goal after the first period.
In only his first year as head coach of Stony Brook, Tiffany is still very familiar with the type of game that Penn State is capable of playing. He said he respected the athleticism of the Lions, knowing he'd have to play a lot of zone to have a chance.
And a little luck always helps, too.
Tiffany recalled about five times during Saturday's game when Penn State shots hit the goal post, negating opportunities for the Lions to score.
The Lions had their chances in this one and took a 5-4 lead into the fourth quarter, but the Seawolves scored three unanswered goals, including two extra- man goals from Jason Cappadora and Chris Tacey, to close out the game.
Nate Whitaker extended his scoring streak to 32 games with an assist to John Eremus, who finished the game with two goals.
Tiffany said he really didn't converse with the Lion players -- being out there was already emotional to begin with. He knew he had to keep his team, and maybe more importantly, himself focused.
"We all know it's just a game, not a civil war out there," Tiffany said.
He did, however, exchange pleasantries with Penn State coach Glenn Thiel.
Over the Christmas holiday he came back to State College to spend some time with Thiel at his home.
"My experience at PSU was great. I owe a lot to Glenn Thiel," Tiffany said.
"He gave me a lot of opportunities to grow as a coach," he said.
