HOCKEY: National title hopes gone with loss

The Cyclone hockey team opened up the American Collegiate Hockey Association’s national tournament against the No. 11 seed West Chester.

Despite some strong performances from key players, West Chester would end any hopes of a national championship for the Cyclones by defeating them 4-2.

After taking an early 1-0 lead, West Chester’s offense refused to slow down, scoring three more goals in the second period. The three goals came in a span of one minute and five seconds from each other.

Forwards Mike Longo and Drew Mervin’s goals came :20 seconds apart from each other. Defenseman Jesse Petrillo capped off the second period scoring with a goal at 14:59.

Iowa State tried to mount a comeback but was unable to get much going offensively. Senior forward Mike Murtuagh scored a short-handed goal with 9:25 remaining.

Sophomore forward Josh Jeske scored with 12:32 in the third period but that would be all the offense the Cyclones could muster.

The two goals West Chester allowed to Iowa State was quite the contrast to the seven they allowed during the Thanksgiving tournament.

The Cyclones will play in another game in the Consolation Round on Sunday and hope to salvage what has been a disappointing national tournament.