Fredericton, NB- STFX forward Ireland McCloskey scored the game-winning goal as STFX defeated STU Tommies 3-2 in an overtime thriller.

The first period was evenly matched, with STFX showing a bit more aggression. Vivian Hinch, assisted by Ashlyn Garnett, broke the deadlock at min 14:00, putting STFX ahead 1-0 in the first period.

St. Thomas responded in the second period, min 07:22, as Jacey Dane netted an unassisted goal to tie the game. However, STFX quickly regained the lead at min 15:47 with a goal scored by Maggy Burbidge, assisted by Ella VandeSompel, making it 2-1.

"We fell short at the end; it was not the win that we wanted, but we got a point out of it," Jacey Dane said. 

In the third period, the Tommies pressed hard to equalize, and with just 50 seconds left (min 19:10), Nadia Lavoie found the net, sending the game into overtime with a score of 2-2.

The overtime period was short, as STFX secured the win in the first 20 seconds, with a goal scored by Ireland McCloskey (unassisted) dealing a blow to the Tommies efforts.

"We ended up winning the series against X, so we count that as a plus." Jacey Dane commented after the game

Both teams displayed solid hockey throughout the game, with STFX ultimately seizing the victory in overtime with a final score of 3-2 at Grant Harvey Centre.

Three Stars were awarded to Ireland McCloskey (STFX) and Katie Sweeney (STU).

Tommies will play tomorrow, Saturday, January 6th, at home against Dalhousie University, while STFX will play against Saint Mary's University on Tuesday, January 9th(a game which was originally scheduled for November 12)

"We are ready to take Dal tomorrow, excited to play after the holidays; it will be a good game," Dane said after the game.

Recap by Martin Carvajal / St Thomas Athletics
Photo by SRM Photography