Westfield celebrates one of its four first-period goals. (Photo by David Fried)
WESTFIELD – Westfield State University struck for four first-period goals, including two from freshman forward P.J. McCadden, to defeat Southern New Hamsphire University, 5-3, in ice hockey game action Tuesday, Jan. 8.
Both teams entered the non-conference contest with five-game losing streaks. Westfield is now 7-5 and Southern New Hampshire is 2-10-2.
Southern New Hampshire took a 1-0 lead 1:11 into the game on a goal by Joe Collins. McCadden evened the score four minutes later then gave the Owls a 2-1 lead 14:21 into the period.
Also scoring in the first stanza were Rory Wilkowich and TJ Powers. Steve Evans earned a helper hat trick with three first-period assists.
Southern New Hampshire’s John Humphrey’s scored two third-period goals as the visitors pulled to within a goal, 4-3, with 1:37 remaining in regulation. But Owl captain Vince Perreault sealed the victory with an empty net goal with 21 ticks left.
Both goalies recorded 34 saves.
