The Lindenwood Lions’ men’s ice hockey season ended heartbreakingly on Saturday, March 7, as the Lions fell 4-3 in overtime to Alaska Fairbanks in the championship game of the United Collegiate Hockey Cup at Centene Community Ice Center.
Despite the loss, Lindenwood finished the season with a program record 15 wins and capped off a strong postseason run that included a dramatic semifinal victory earlier in the week.
In the championship, the Lions fought back from a two-goal deficit in the third period to force overtime. Lindenwood controlled much of the game offensively, outshooting Alaska 42-22 and dominating the third period with a 23-9 shot advantage.
Forward Jacob Fletcher led the Lions’ offense with a goal and an assist, the only Lindenwood player to record multiple points in the game. However, Alaska secured the title when they scored just seconds into overtime, sealing a narrow victory and ending the Lions’ season.
Lindenwood reached the championship after a thrilling 5-4 semifinal win over the LIU Sharks on March 5. In a back-and-forth game, both teams scored many goals throughout the game before the Lions delivered a dramatic finish.
With the score tied late in regulation, forward Anselmo Rego scored the game-winning goal on a breakaway with just 8.8 seconds remaining, sending the Lions to the championship and igniting the home crowd.
The victory highlighted Lindenwood’s resilience throughout the tournament, as the team repeatedly responded to momentum swings and pressure situations.
Although the Lions ultimately fell short of the title, their performance in the inaugural United Collegiate Hockey Cup showcased the program’s growth and competitiveness at the Division 1 level. The team’s strong showing in the tournament and record-setting season provides momentum for Lindenwood as it looks ahead to next year.
