The Lions were looking to continue their recent roll, but fell short against the top seeded University of Providence 6-4 on Friday morning, ending the season.
The Lions, playing their second game in 20 hours, were at a speed disadvantage early in the game, as Providence got many chances early in the game. Playing what would ultimately be his final game, Grad student and all time wins leader Jason Footlick made great save after great save early in the game. Though Providence eventually broke through midway through the first, the Lions were getting their footing. Providence would score again later in the first on a rush chance, but the Lions would answer right back as Senior captain Austin Billings scored on a great back door pass from Ryan Hirai. The Lions trailed 2-1 at intermission.
In the second, Providence would score right out of the gate on an end to end rush. The Lions regrouped and played a pretty even period, and eventually scored late in the second. Spencer Engstrom picked up his third goal of the weekend, snagging a blocked shot and firing it into the open net. After two, the Lions trailed 3-2.
In the third the short rest became more evident, as the Argos scored early once again on a rush play. The Argos would eventually get up 6-2 late in the third, but the resilient Lions keep up and Austin Billings scored his second of the game on an amazing top shelf shot to bring the Lions to within three with 6 minutes to play.
In a great way to send off the season, Senior assistant captain and team president, Tommy Bennett fired home a point shot to score and bring the Lions to the final score of 6-4.
It was a bittersweet moment for the team who had accomplished so much this year. Winning the Century Cup, securing the top record in team history, and becoming the first team in program history to win a regionals game. The year was great from start to finish, with the team taking five total trips and playing some tough competition. With trips to Boise, Arizona, Utah, Detroit (for a memorable outdoor game) and finally to the ACHA West regionals for only the third time.
Congratulations to our eight seniors (Billings, Hirai, Andrade, Footlick, Clem, Bennett, Kilkenny and Sedgwick) who led this team to new heights with a great sense of team at the forefront. The Lions look forward to aiming even higher next year with their 21 returning players, and a new crop of freshmen.