(Editor's note: University of Providence media release)
PROVO, Utah – In only its second year as a program, the University of Providence men's hockey team defeated Montana State 3-1 Friday afternoon to clinch a spot in the Mountain West Conference Championship.
Tied after the first period, Cooper Page found the back of the net with 4:25 left in the second period to give the Argos a 2-1 lead. The Bobcats increased their aggressiveness in the third period, but allowed an empty-net goal with 52 seconds left from Levi Anderson to finalize the defeat.
"I thought our second period is the best we've played all year," head coach Jeff Heimel said. "We played well the first, but we really turned it on in the second period. They pushed pretty hard in the third, but we defended well and got stops when it mattered."
Heimel was pleased with the defensive effort from the Argos, and particularly goalie Tristan Lewis.
"Hes awesome," Heimel said. "He's been so good all year. He's only getting better. It's fun to see him compete."
The Argos, who are the 2 seed in the tournament, will take on the winner between the top-seeded University of Mary and the #5 seed Utah State on Saturday at 3:30 p.m.
"We're excited to play in the championship," Heimel said. "I don't know if I can describe it. It is our second year in the conference and to be able to play for a conference championship is unbelievable. I really can't put it into words."
