Lindenwood Skates To Its Sixth Straight B-Division National Title
GPCIHL
April 8th, 2009 at 5:29PMApril 8th, 2009 5:42PM
Feasterville
,
PA
—It was no easy road for the Lindenwood’s b-team in
Feasterville
,
PA
at the NCRHA National Championships. After going 2-1 in round robin play, the Lions drew the third overall seed going into the single-elimination bracket. Lindenwood took on
West Chester
in the quarterfinal game and won 8-7 in overtime from a goal by defensemen Alex Rodgers. The semifinal game also needed extra time as it went to overtime as well. Lindenwood took on the second overall seed
Buffalo
and won 4-3 as David Murphy got the big goal to send the Lions to the championship game against
Penn
State
. “Getting to the championship was no easy road,†Coach Jon Hilke said, “And I don’t expect
Penn
State
to make it any easier.†The Lions beat
Penn
State
in round robin play by the score of 7-0.
Lindenwood did not waste anytime getting on the board. Assistant captain David Murphy got a pass from Rob Medlock just 2 minutes and 29 seconds into the first period to give the Lions the quick 1-0 lead.
Penn
State
would quickly answer with a goal 1 minute later to tie the game at 1-1. Lindenwood would then add 2 more even strength goals from Patrick Fuist and senior Greg Hester to give the Lions a 3-1 lead going into the second period.
The second period was a defensive battle as Lions freshman forward James Schenewerk scored the only goal of the period. The Lions killed off three penalties and escaped with a slim 4-1 lead going into the final period.
It would be all Lindenwood in the third period, as they got two power play goals from Patrick Fuist and David Murphy. The Lions also added two even strength goals from Alex Rodgers and Josh Buehrig. Penn Sate would score in the final minute on the power play but the Lions went on to win 8-2 a secure their sixth straight national title. “The team really played well and worked hard for this; we set a goal at the beginning of the year and we accomplished it with the win over
Penn
State
,†Coach Hilke said.