STONEY CREEK, ON - The Redeemer Royals men's hockey team delivered a determined effort against one of the top teams in ACHA Division II, falling 3–1 to the No. 5–ranked Niagara University Purple Eagles.
Niagara entered the matchup with a 21–1 record and wasted little time asserting themselves, opening the scoring just three minutes into the game. The Purple Eagles added two more goals before the end of the first period to take a 3–0 lead.
Despite the early deficit, the Royals showed composure against the nationally ranked opponent and steadily improved as the game progressed. Redeemer tightened defensively and generated more sustained offensive pressure with each passing period, refusing to let Niagara's fast start dictate the remainder of the contest.
The Royals were finally rewarded late in the third period when
Jake Voskamp found the back of the net, breaking the shutout and giving Redeemer momentum down the stretch. With time winding down, the Royals earned a power play in the final two minutes and pushed hard for an equalizer, but were unable to convert.
Niagara held on for the 3–1 victory, but Redeemer's growth throughout the game was evident. Goaltender
Carson Murison was a standout for the Royals, turning aside 43 shots and keeping Redeemer within striking distance against one of the top offences in the country.
Redeemer will look to build on this performance as they continue their schedule in the second semester.
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