Tigers fall to Axemen 9-4

The Acadia Axemen defeated Dalhousie Tigers with a final score of 9-4 on Friday in Wolfville, NS.

In the first period, the Axemen took an early lead with Brady Burns scoring the first goal at 1:29, assisted by Cam MacDonald and Corson Hopwo. Despite Dalhousie's attempts to equalize, including a power play opportunity following a penalty on Cam MacDonald at 5:32, they were unable to convert, as the Axemen's defense, led by goaltender Thomas Couture, remained strong. Bailey Peach extended the lead with a goal at 12:58, assisted by Kian Bell and Charlie Desroches, leaving Dalhousie trailing 2-0 by the end of the period. Alexander MacDonald, Dalhousie's goalie, made multiple saves to prevent further scoring, but Dalhousie struggled to find the net, resulting in a scoreless period for the visitors.

In the second period, the Axemen took control early with Bailey Peach scoring at 4:47, followed by a goal from Ethan Ernst at 5:29, extending their lead. The Axemen capitalized on a power-play opportunity when Adam McMaster scored at 6:29, making it three unanswered goals. Dalhousie responded with a goal from Joseph Serpa at 10:10 to get on the board. However, Kian Bell added another goal at 15:57, and despite Dalhousie's Ethan Martini scoring at 17:43, the Axemen maintained their momentum with a short-handed goal by Adam McMaster at 19:50, concluding the period with a 5-2 advantage over Dalhousie.

The third period began with Dalhousie taking an early advantage, as Brody Fournier scored at 00:54, assisted by Ryan Del Monte and Barret Kirwin. The Axemen responded quickly when Bailey Peach scored a power-play goal at 03:02, with an assist from Kian Bell. After a series of missed shots from both teams, Kian Bell scored again for the Axemen at 14:44, assisted by Cam MacDonald, extending their lead. Dalhousie closed the period with a late goal from Ryan Smith at 18:18, assisted by Barret Kirwin and Ryan Del Monte, but they were unable to make up the deficit, finishing the period with a score of 4-9 in favor of the Axemen.

Brody Fournier stands out with one goal and one assist, taking three shots on goal. Ryan Smith also made an impact with one goal and one assist, capitalizing on his single shot attempt. Joseph Serpa contributed to the team's efforts with a goal on two shots, showcasing his efficiency. Barret Kirwin leads in assists with three, making the most of his single shot on goal. Ethan Martini adds to the scoring tally with one goal from three shots.

Dalhousie holds a record of three wins, 26 losses, and one tie overall and in conference play. The Axemen have an overall and conference record of 14 wins, 13 losses, and two ties.