The University of Northern Colorado hockey team defeated Metro State 6-2 Friday at the Greeley Ice Haus. At the same time, they clinched yet another conference championship.
The team honored their only graduating senior, forward Alex Cupples, with a pre-game ceremony. Cupples hugged each one of his teammates, and his jersey was hanging on the team’s bench.
Senior Colin Chmelka put the Bears out in front first, scoring in the first five minutes of the game. Truman Gonzales scored two minutes later, with assists from senior Mitchell Bailey and sophomore Brantt Heble.
The Roadrunners made it 2-1 before the end of the first period, scoring with just under three minutes left.
Freshman Paul Norris got one past MSU’s goalie in the second period, giving Northern Colorado a 3-1 lead.
Junior Brian Brink made it a 4-1 game three minutes later, with an assist from senior Cameron Taggart. UNC would hold that lead through the remainder of the period.
Gonzales scored his second goal of the game, this time of the power play variety, a minute into the third period. That gave the Bears a 5-1 lead.
Bailey scored a beauty with two minutes remaining in the game, giving UNC their sixth goal of the night.
The Roadrunners were called for checking, but managed to score a short-handed goal with 22 seconds left in the game. That made it a 6-2 game, which would prove to be the final score.
With the win, Northern Colorado improved to 24-6 on the season. They also clinched their second straight conference championship with their win against Denver on January 20.
They wrap up the regular season Friday when they take on Air Force on Military Night at the Ice Haus. Puck drop is scheduled for 8:15 p.m.
