FGCU Hockey Team Stages Thrilling Comeback with 4-3 Victory Over Lindenwood

A Glorious Return

Following a successful trip to UMass from November 8-10, the FGCU Division II Club Hockey Team returned to Hertz Arena to face the Lindenwood University Lions on November 15-16. After a tough loss in the first game, the Eagles were determined to secure a win in the rematch.

First Period Highlights

The game started strong for FGCU as forward Adam Beauvais scored just over a minute into the first period, assisted by team captain Jack Cohen. This early goal set the tone for the Eagles, and soon after, Carson Engelmann added another goal, giving FGCU a 2-0 lead. Lindenwood responded with a powerful goal by Nick Jones in the 13th minute, ending the first period with FGCU leading 2-1.

A Fiercely Competitive Second Period

As the second period commenced, Beauvais struck again for FGCU, scoring during a 5-on-3 power play. However, the Lions fought back, with Zac Maupin netting a goal in the 14th minute. This was followed by two more goals from Jones, including another power-play strike. The intense back-and-forth action left the game tied 4-4 heading into the final period.

A Thrilling, Decisive Final Period

Ryan O’Halloran gave the Eagles an early lead in the third period with a power-play goal at 3:22. The Lions quickly responded, equalizing once again. Both teams battled fiercely in the closing minutes, with Lindenwood’s Jones scoring in the 18th minute. Despite their efforts, the Eagles couldn’t find the net again, ending the game with a narrow 6-5 defeat.

Determined to Rebound

After Friday’s loss, the Eagles were resolute in turning the tables on Lindenwood. The second game began with renewed energy. Ryan Granville of Lindenwood opened the scoring within the first five minutes, followed by a goal from Logan Millhausen in the 17th minute, giving the Lions a 2-0 lead at the end of the first period.

The Eagles regained momentum in the second period, with defenseman Brady Carlock scoring the team’s first goal. Lindenwood’s Chase McClellan quickly countered with their third goal, but Beauvais struck again for FGCU, notching his ninth goal in nine games and leveling the score at 2-2.

Just 48 seconds into the third period, Jordan Comilla put the Eagles in the lead, followed by another goal from O’Halloran. FGCU dominated the final period, scoring two goals and fending off Lindenwood’s attempts to equalize.

Stellar Goaltending Secures the Victory

Goaltender Mason Decaire was instrumental in the Eagles’ win, making nine critical saves in the final period and sealing FGCU’s 4-3 victory. The team concluded the week with an impressive 10-4 overall record.

Looking Ahead for the Eagles

With this victory, the Eagles now prepare for their next challenge against Sacred Heart University on November 22-23 at Hertz Arena. The team aims to build on their recent success and extend their winning streak as they push for more triumphs this season.