The 10th-ranked Providence College men’s hockey team secured a significant 4-2 triumph against Merrimack on Thursday evening at Schneider Arena, propelled by outstanding performances from Cal Kiefiuk, Chase Yoder, and Brady Berard.
Merrimack exhibited great determination, but ultimately yielded to the pressure from Providence, with Philip Svedebäck delivering a commendable display and making 26 saves for Providence. Hugo Ollas also played a crucial role in keeping Merrimack competitive, making 28 saves despite conceding three goals.
Providence made a strong start, as Cal Kiefiuk scored his second goal of the season late in the first period and assisted in a goal for Brady Berard. Merrimack responded in the second period through Ty Daneault, but Chase Yoder reclaimed Providence’s lead with his 10th goal of the season, aided by Clint Levens.
In the third period, Bennett Schimek extended Providence’s advantage to 3-1 on the power-play, with assists from Graham Gamache and Hudson Malinoski. Merrimack staged a late comeback, but Providence secured the victory with an empty-net goal from Brady Berard, assisted by Guillaume Richard and Chase Yoder.
A total of nine different Friars contributed points, including impressive performances from Brady Berard, Cal Kiefiuk, and Chase Yoder, who all recorded two points each. Furthermore, Providence outshot Merrimack 32-18, with Riley Duran, Chase Yoder, and Jaroslav Chmelar leading the way with three attempts on goal each.
Following this crucial victory, the Friars have risen to third place in the Hockey East standings with 36 points, establishing themselves as strong contenders in the league.
Looking ahead, the Friars are preparing to once again face Merrimack at Lawler Rink in North Andover, Mass. With their recent triumph boosting their confidence, the team is anticipating another captivating encounter on the ice.