Robert Morris University Men’s Hockey beat the United States Air Force Academy this weekend in the best-of-three series in the quarterfinals round of the AHA playoffs. Losing the first game in double overtime, the Colonials fought back and dominated in the second and third games to earn their spot in the semi-finals.
Tanner Klimpke scored twice for the Colonials in their 3-2 overtime loss in the first game of the series. The Colonials’ penalty kill could not hold up as they let in a short-handed goal that allowed Air Force to secure the overtime win. Assists on the goals came from Jackson Renieke and Michael Craig.
Robert Morris came back stronger in the second game as they beat Air Force 4-1, forcing game three. Goals were scored by Luke van Why, Patrick Johnson, Julian Beaumont, and Dario Beljo, who scored his first for the Colonials. Freshman goaltender, Charlie Schenkel recorded a .971 save %, stopping 33 shots.
With the series tied, the Colonials dominated in the third game. Charlie Schenkel led the team with a program-record 60 saves. Michael Felsing scored two goals, with Ryan Taylor, John Babcock, and Max Wattvil each recording one goal. Wattvil scored his first as a Colonial. Robert Morris shut down Air Force, winning 5-2, and advancing to the AHA semi-finals. Schenkel once again proving to be one of the best young goalies in the business, setting a program record with 60 saves in the pivotal matchup.
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The Colonials now face #2-ranked Sacred Heart University in the AHA semi-finals. The best of three series will be played in Fairfield, Connecticut, from March 13th to 15th.
