PSU LOSES HEARTBREAKER TO IUP IN OT 5-4

Friday, October 12, 2018

The Penn State Altoona hockey team opened it's season on the road with division rival IUP. The Lions would strike first on a Max Lesnikov one-timer from Brendan Gertz and Ryan Lindsey at the 12:25 mark of the first period. This would be the only scoring in the period and PSU would hold a 1-0 lead. Promoting quick starts, PSU would take a 2-0 lead, when PSU captain Catcher Cumming's shot would deflect off an IUP defenseman and past IUP's goaltender. IUP would cut the lead in half at the 13:28 mark. Three minutes later Drew Poleshuk would once again give the Lions a two goal lead with wrist shot over the keepers blocker shoulder (assisted by Cumming and Gates). Three minutes later, the Crimson Hawks would make it 3-2 heading into the third period. IUP would come out in the third period and outshoot the Lions 19-7. The Hawks would tie the score 3-3 at 14:42. Lesnikov would score his second of the game from Justin Milchak giving PSU a 4-3 lead. Desperate the Hawks started shooting from anywhere and an errant dump from the redline somehow squeaked by goaltender Brous. With the score tied at four late in the game, it appeared that the game was going to overtime. They say in any sports, the referee always catches the retaliation penalty. PSU defenseman Drew Poleshuk was crossed checked in the mouth, busting open is lip. He retaliated and was called for a roughing penalty. Skating 4 on 3 in overtime, IUP would deliver a game winning shot on the power play. Coach Lantz saw a lot of positive things from the game and has no doubt this team will bounce back. The Lions travel to Cleveland State and Saint Vincent the weekend of 20th and 21st.