Great Lakes Wire

The NMU hockey team faced a setback in their penultimate home game of the season, losing 3-0 to the St. Thomas Tommies. The Wildcats, who have had a record of scoring two or more goals in nine of their last eleven games, were unable to continue this streak against St. Thomas.

St. Thomas, with a season record of 13-13-5 and 10-9-4 in the CCHA, scored twice in the first period due to some fortunate bounces and sealed their victory with an empty net goal late in the third period. Jake Sibell, the senior goaltender for St. Thomas and reigning CCHA Goaltender of the Week, achieved his first career collegiate shutout by making all 21 saves during the game.

Liam Malmquist, a nominee for the Hobey Baker Award, ended his six-game point drought by contributing two assists. Lucas Wahlin also made notable contributions with both a goal and an assist.

The Wildcats successfully killed off both penalties they faced but failed to capitalize on their sole power play opportunity.

Looking ahead, NMU plans to honor its seniors before tomorrow's final home game of the 2024/25 season.

During the match, St. Thomas capitalized on two lucky bounces in the first period. The initial score came when a shot from the point deflected off multiple surfaces before finding its way into NMU's net. Another goal followed after a misplay by a Wildcat defender allowed St. Thomas to double their lead.

Despite a goalless second period and much of the third remaining scoreless as well, St. Thomas secured their win with an empty net goal just before time expired.