Returning multiple starters in the backfield is a good thing for the Panthers this season. The defense has not allowed more than one goal in nine consecutive games, stringing back to the halfway point of last season. The streak also coincides with sophomore Mark Hansen taking over as starting keeper.

“I am very pleased with his play,” said head coach Adam Howarth about his goalie.

This past weekend, Howarth went with the same defensive starters against both Detroit Mercy and Bowling Green. Seniors Phil Clemmer and Mike Comiskey were joined by sophomore Eddie Barnes and freshman Nick Bonacker to continue the streak, allowing one goal in each game.

While the defense has stymied opposing offenses, Eastern’s own offense has failed to take advantage of the streak, being shutout four times in the process. The Panthers have managed to win only three games during the streak, while losing four and tying two.

Panthers escape weekend unharmed

The roster did not take a hit, as all the Panthers came back from the weekend’s Bowling Green Falcon Invitational without injuries. In fact, they are about to get some additional help as freshman Chris Pearson returns from a foot sprain suffered in preseason practice.

Pearson, a 6-foot-3 center back from Newcastle, England, who according to Howarth is “tough and physical,” will bring even more depth to the strong defensive core.

Freshman shows skill

Howarth has liked what he has seen from his freshmen class thus far, especially the play of Evan Philpott. Howarth already considers the forward from Jacksonville, Ill., “a tremendous steal.” Howarth also said that Philpott, who lettered in wrestling in high school, brings toughness to the front line and is very sound technically.

Howarth takes advantage of substitution rules

Prior to starting Missouri Valley Conference play there are no substitution rules.

Howarth has been using this to see more of his players in action. Against Detroit Mercy, Howarth used six subs and then he used five against Bowling Green. Sophomores Dave Rigby and Mike Lewis, along with freshmen Ari Horing and Jeff Kupiec, were able to come off the bench in both games and contribute significant minutes.

Substitution rules change when Missouri Valley Conference play begins.

In MVC play, 20 players are allowed to see playing time for each team. With eleven starters, that adds up to a max of nine subs per game. If a player is taken out in the first half, he can re-enter the game in the second half but cannot be taken out and put back in the same half.