Hockey drops weekend series
STRAIGHT SHOOTER — Senior foward Adam Docksteader takes aim at Oklahoma’s goaltender. Docksteader had a goal in Saturday’s loss to visiting Oklahoma.
The No. 15 Liberty Flames battled again with the No. 9 Oklahoma Sooners at home this weekend at the LaHaye Ice Center for a thrilling matchup between two nationally ranked teams.
The last meeting between the two teams in late November ended in a draw as Oklahoma won 4-3 in overtime and Liberty won 5-3 in the following match.
The Sooners were eager to match the highly competitive Flames this weekend as the team boarded its bus Thursday morning.
While the Sooners traveled, the Flames practiced with intensity, as they were inspired to salvage their bitter overtime loss to Stony Brook, and showcase their skills against a higher ranked opponent.
During practice the team was edgy and prepared to play against Oklahoma and the game plan was simple. Win.
The Sooners came to Liberty on a two-game losing streak thanks to No. 2 Davenport last weekend.
Senior guard Greg Jensen collected a hat trick and kept the offense moving throughout the game.
Liberty’s offense scored on three power plays and was down by only two points after a physical second period.
In the opening minutes of the third period freshman forward Aaron Semiao scored a goal with an assist by Mackenzie Bauman, his second of the night. The Sooners were able to fend off the Flames and win 6-5.
As Saturday’s game progressed the Oklahoma Sooner’s took and held a lead into the third period.
Liberty’s frustration was evident towards the end of the third period, as fights fueled the entertainment of the audience but acted as ventilation for a team who was disappointed with its performance.
A goal by senior forward Adam Docksteader into the third period gave a small spark to the Liberty offense, but they were unable to rally back and were defeated 6-1.
“The past is behind us, every game is a fresh slate, and we are looking forward to showcase our skills regardless of our opponents,” senior wing Eric Reynolds said.
The coaching staff can relate with the frustration of their players but understand that the next few games will be the final test to help secure their fifth consecutive ACHA D1 National Tournament bid.
With four games remaining, the Liberty Flames travel to the University of Delaware to search for a win before playing its final regular season hockey game at home against Central Oklahoma University on Feb. 11-12.
If Liberty finishes strong it will be a competitor during the National Championship Tournament in Delaware on March 5-9.