Niagara University, NY – The Niagara Purple Eagles overcame an early deficit to defeat Robert Morris 5-2 on Friday night in Atlantic Hockey action at Dwyer Arena.
The Purple Eagles improved their record to 9-17-3 overall and 9-10-2 in conference play, while the Colonials fell to 9-17-3 with the loss.
Robert Morris struck first just 1:38 into the contest when Michael Felsing beat Niagara netminder Tomas Anderson with assists from Trent Wilson and Gabriel Lunn.
Niagara responded later in the period to knot the game up at one. Marshall Finnie connected on the Power-Play finishing off a feed from Spencer Young. Dallon Melin also received an assist on the play.
Heading into the break the Purple Eagles outshot the Colonials 10-6 with Anderson recording five saves.
Robert Morris got out to a 2-1 advantage early in the second once again, scoring in the first two minutes, this time at the 1:10 mark. Tanner Klimpke found the back of the net with Wilson and Felsing receiving assists.
Niagara once again knotted the game up, this time at the 4:46 mark of the second. The Purple Eagles converted on their second Power-Play goal of the game when Spencer Young finished off a one-timer from Nathan Oickle. Melin also got credit for his second assist of the night on the play.
Just like the end of the first frame it was all tied up after two with the Purple Eagles outshooting the Colonials 11-8.
Niagara took control of the third period gaining their first lead of the contest with four minutes remaining. Melin capped off his three-point night with a Power-Play tally of his own, sending home a pass from Declan McDonnell. Ross Rolson also got an assist on the play.
Niagara added two late empty net goals from Finnie and Noah Hackett. Jacob Maillet and Aidan Litke recorded assists on Finnie's second goal of the game.
Coaches Thoughts
Game Notes
Niagara is now 40-34-11 all-time against Robert Morris
Melin recorded a career-high three points in the victory
Finnie recorded his third two-goal game of the season
Young tied his career-high in points with his goal and assist
The Purple Eagles won the face-off battle 39-23
The Purple and White recorded 34 shots compared to the Colonials 21
Up Next
Niagara wraps up the home and home with Robert Morris, Saturday February 14 at 7 pm in Moon Township, Pa.
