The Defender Hockey team upset the #10 ranked Missouri State Bears with a 4-3 win on Saturday afternoon at Vernon Arena. The win wraps up Dordt's regular season with a 16-5-1 overall record heading into next week's MACHA tournament.
Head Coach
Tyler Morgan had this to say about the win:
I'm really proud of our group. To fight back after a hard loss last night, and to beat the #10 ranked team in the country, might just be the best win in our program history. Our guys have fought hard and today was a huge step in their growth. What a way to end Freddy's senior season on home ice!
How it Happened:
Period one was all Missouri State. They jumped out to a 2-0 lead and were winning the shots on goal battle as well.
Period two started out with the Bears looking like they were still in control, but Missouri State Penalties gave the Defenders a window to score, gain some momentum, and get back into the game. It was
Lucas Van Berkel who got the scoring started for Dordt, forcing a turnover, and scoring unassisted.
After more penalties for both teams with the game at 2-1, the Defenders seemed to gain a little energy. With that momentum came a
Zach Espenson one timer from the blue line to tie the game a 2 a piece headed into the second intermission.
Missouri State would take the lead once again to start the third period. After more penalties,
Mason Carrels was able to tie the game off an assist from
Alex Espenson.
Then with just under four minutes remaining in the game, it was
Carrels again scoring from about the same spot, this time to give the Defenders the lead for good. Things were tense at Vernon Arena for the next three minutes, but
Hayden Stevens and the defense were able to hold off the Bear's offense and seal the win.
Stat Summary:
Mason Carrels led the way with the game tying, and winning goals.
Lucas Van Berkel was an offensive threat as well, contributing a goal and 2 assists to the cause.
Zach Espenson had one goal,
Alex Espenson had 2 assists, and
Noah Wilmes had 1 assist.
Dordt tallied 37 shots on goal compared to 42 shots on goal for Missouri State.
Hayden Stevens made 39 saves at Goalie for Dordt.
Looking Ahead:
Next weekend, Dordt will travel to St. Louis for the MACHA league tournament. Continue to check back to
godordt.com for the latest information on the Defender Hockey postseason.
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