In a clash of powerhouse teams, St. Thomas Academy delivered a stunning 2-1 victory over previously undefeated Hill-Murray. The Cadets capitalized on key opportunities in the third period to secure the win and end Hill-Murray’s perfect run.
After two scoreless periods, the game erupted in the third. St. Thomas Academy’s William Dosan broke the deadlock with a shorthanded goal at 3:26, assisted by Jackson Rudh. Hill-Murray responded quickly on the power play at 4:21, with Jackson Reeves finding the net off a setup by Cullen Ingebritson.
The decisive moment came at 6:57 when Luca Pedri scored the game-winner for St. Thomas Academy, assisted by Lucas Connory and James Richardson. Despite a late surge from Hill-Murray, the Cadets held firm behind an exceptional performance by goaltender Cody Niesen, who stopped 32 of 33 shots for a .970 save percentage.
Hill-Murray goaltender Grayson Hanggi was solid with 23 saves on 25 shots, but the Pioneers’ struggles to convert power-play opportunities and discipline issues proved costly.
St. Thomas Academy:
Hill-Murray:
St. Thomas Academy’s disciplined defense and goaltending were the difference-makers, especially in a penalty-heavy game. Hill-Murray’s inability to convert more than one power play and their untimely penalties left them vulnerable to the Cadets’ counterattack.
This victory serves as a statement for St. Thomas Academy, proving they can compete with top-tier teams. Hill-Murray, meanwhile, will look to regroup and address their discipline as they prepare for a challenging slate of games ahead.
