**Editor’s Note: This story is being published long after it was submitted for review due to a backup in the sports section. This article is in reference to a series of games that took place from Oct. 18-19.**
Kentucky hockey traveled to Lynchburg, Virginia, where it faced off against the Liberty Eagles in back-to-back games, starting off with a thrilling 4-3 win on Friday night followed by a hard-fought 3-2 win the following day.
The matchup was deemed a critical one after the Cats had previous losses as they looked to regain momentum on the season.
The starting lineup for the Wildcats consisted of a strong handful of players including sophomore Gabe Rodriguez and junior Marc L’Heureux, who was necessary considering Liberty’s strong record this season with one less loss than Kentucky.
The team kicked off its first game on Friday with an impressive goal by sophomore Nick Delaney five minutes into the game, putting it in the lead to end the first period.
Liberty responded in the second period after an ongoing defensive matchup, but it wasn’t long after that Jack Noel found the back of the net and took the lead.
As the second period came to a close, the LaHaye Ice Center fans were on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the final period as both teams’ records hung in the balance.
The third period ultimately proved to be easy money for the Wildcats, however, after L’Heureux scored within the first 45 seconds of the third period.
Liberty was sent scrambling to pick itself back up and did score, but to no avail as it had a costly turnover, giving Alex Clingerman an empty cage after the Eagles pulled their goalie to try and give themselves a man-up advantage.
The following day, Kentucky returned to the LaHaye Ice Center with the hope of continuing its streak in Liberty territory.
It was evident that the Eagles were determined to seek revenge, dominating the first period with an early goal after tightening their defense, disabling the Wildcats from scoring. It wasn’t until over five minutes into the second period that No. 3 Nick Obourn broke through to put the Cats on the board.
Despite that, Liberty quickly retaliated, scoring again to regain the lead by the end of the second period.
The third period had the Wildcats on the edge of their seats, showcasing a fierce battle between two very aggressive defenses. Each team pushed each other to the limits and ramped up the intensity.
Liberty was determined to keep its lead, but No. 23 Rodriguez had other plans.
After maneuvering through the tough defense, he took a shot and found the back of the cage to tie the game and send it into overtime.
In the extra period, Nate James scored during a power play, clinching a much-needed victory for the Wildcats.
The Kentucky Wildcats are headed home for the next three games where they will play another back-to-back matchup against Indiana starting on Oct. 25 at the Lexington Ice Center.
