Newington, CT --- The Westfield State University club hockey team dropped a heart breaker in overtime on Saturday night by the score of 2-1. Central Connecticut would capitalize on an early penalty only three minutes into the game as they were able to slide a puck past Senior netminder Nick Franco. After coming out a little flat, Westfield really turned on the pressure the second half of the period and controlled most of the play. With 4:00 left in the period, Tyler Reopel would knot the game up 1-1. Ryan Garvey collected his first collegiate point with an assist. Colin Pierce picked up the secondary helper.
Midway through the second period, Chase Thornton would come in relief. Both goaltenders were fantastic and made several key saves to keep the game tied through two periods of play. Things got a little tense in the closing minutes of the third period as Westfield had to kill off back to back penalties. With the teams being tied 1-1 after 60 minutes of hockey, they headed to overtime.
A lot of open room gave Westfield some scoring opportunities but with 2:20 remaining, Central Connecticut broke in on a 2 on 1 and found the back of the net for the extra point.
Westfield will return to action on Friday when they open up league play at Bridgewater State. The game is at Bridgewater Ice Arena and the first puck drop is scheduled for 8:10 pm. If you can't make the game, get updates on the teams twitter @wsuclub .
Goal: Reopel (1)
Saves: Franco (0-0-0-0), Thornton (0-0-0-1)
Power Play: 0 for 5 (0%)
Penalty Kill: 3 for 4 (75%)