Colorado College defeated Simon Fraser University 8-3 in an exhibition ice hockey game Saturday at Ed Robson Arena. The Tigers were led by strong offensive performances from Gavin Lindberg, Connor Hvidston, and Bret Link, each of whom contributed multiple goals.
Dominant Offensive Display
Lindberg and Hvidston each scored two goals and recorded an assist, while Link netted two goals for Colorado College. Philippe Blais-Savoie, Tomas Mrsic, and Brayden Schuurman each added two assists to the Tigers’ total. The team’s power play proved effective, converting on 2 of 4 opportunities.
Lindberg initiated the scoring at 7:02 of the first period, capitalizing on a centering pass from Owen Beckner. Link extended the lead to 2-0 with a power-play goal at the 15:49 mark, assisted by Wilson Bjorck and Blais-Savoie. Beckner himself scored early in the second period, making it 3-0.
Simon Fraser University responded with two goals, narrowing the gap, but Hvidston quickly countered, scoring just nine seconds after Ridge Dawson’s goal to restore a two-goal advantage. Link and Hvidston then added goals before the end of the second period, pushing the score to 6-2.
Lindberg scored again early in the third period, increasing Colorado College’s lead to 7-2. Simon Fraser managed two late goals, one from Matteo Speranza and another from Merril Steenari with just 0.2 seconds remaining, finalizing the score at 8-3.
Jackson Unger recorded seven saves for Colorado College, while Beckham Dempsey added one save during the final 4:38 of play.
Looking Ahead
Colorado College is scheduled to resume National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) play next weekend with a two-game series at Omaha, January 23-24. The team’s performance in these upcoming games could be indicative of their competitiveness within the conference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the first goal of the game?
Gavin Lindberg scored the first goal of the game at the 7:02 mark of the opening period.
How many assists did Bret Link have?
Bret Link had zero assists, but scored two goals.
What is the next competitive play for Colorado College?
Colorado College resumes NCHC play next weekend at Omaha, Jan. 23-24.
Given the Tigers’ strong offensive showing in this exhibition game, what adjustments do you anticipate they will make as they transition back into NCHC competition?
Related reading