Flames split series against Seawolves

After losing two straight games, the Flames men’s hockey team hosted the Stony Brook Seawolves Nov. 12 and 13.   The Flames entered the game ranked No. 15 in the ACHA, while Seawolves were ranked No. 19.

In their first meeting, Stony Brook came out on top, defeating Liberty, 6-3. Although the Flames outshot and held the possession longer than the Seawolves, they were not able to overcome the strong defensive play of Stony Brook.

Midway through the second period freshman goalie Blair Bennett entered the game after a 3-0 deficit.  By the end of the second period Liberty was on the board, thanks to a goal by defenseman Mackenzie Bauman.  By the third period, after a quick goal by Stony Brook, Liberty came out firing on all cylinders to score two goals, one by forward Tom Charlton and the other from defenseman Mike Morrison, cutting the lead to 4-3.  Stony Brook eventually iced the game scoring two late goals, the last on an empty net.

This set up an emotional Saturday night game at the LaHaye Ice Center.  It was a hard-hitting game with Liberty winning, 4-2.

During a Stony Brook power play early in the first period, Liberty defenseman Greg Jensen scorched a shot into the back of the Seawolves goal. The short-handed score was the lone goal in the first period.

Heading into the second period, forward Eric Reynolds scored during a power play, giving the Flames a small 2-0 cushion. Before the second intermission, Stony Brook converted on a power play reducing the lead to 2-1.

Quickly in the final period, Stony Brook tied the game, 2-2.  Overtime looked eminent but late goals by Jensen and forward Jonathan Chung gave the Flames the 4-2 victory.  Goalkeeper Bennett had a solid game allowing only two goals.
Ending a four home game stand in winning fashion, Liberty will be on the road going against Oklahoma, Central Oklahoma and Oakland.  Liberty’s next home game is Dec. 6 against Virginia Tech.