Senior forward Cullen Willox scored the only goal for the St. Thomas men’s hockey team in its 2-1 loss to Hamline Saturday at St. Thomas Ice Arena in Mendota Heights.

Following a narrow victory the night before, the Tommies (8-3-5 MIAC, 14-6-5 overall) attempted a comeback in the second period, but ended their regular season and senior night with a loss to the Pipers (5-10-1 MIAC, 4-19-2 overall).

After a scoreless first period, Pipers forward Tyler Nyman scored the first goal of the game early in the second period with assists by defenseman Mitch Hall and forward Tommy Hall. The latter would go on to score the second goal for the Pipers midway through the period with assists by Brandon Zajicek and Brady Crabtree.

The Tommies looked to be on the verge of a comeback after forward Cullen Willox narrowed the gap with a 5-on-3 power-play goal late in the period with assists by forwards Brett Gravelle and Johnny Panvica. Neither team scored in the third period.

“I think the second period was our demise,” coach Jeff Boeser said.

Despite the loss, Boeser had high praises for his seniors.

“It’s a great group, not only as hockey players, but they’re just fine young men,” Boeser said. “A quality group of good, young men that are going to be successful in life.”

The players, such as forward Tanner Barnes, must move their attention from the loss and begin to focus on the MIAC playoffs.

“Whatever has happened in the past is over and done with,” Barnes said. “We have won the regular season but that doesn’t get you anywhere. You have to win the in playoffs, so fresh start here and I think we’re all looking forward to it.

The Tommies will begin the MIAC playoffs on the road against St. John’s Feb. 23 at 7 p.m.

Brennan Campbell can be reached at camp3460@stthomas.edu.
Matthew Curry can be reached at curr1523@stthomas.edu.