Reading, Pa. (Dec. 10, 2023) - Alvernia University (7-4-1, 6-4) held off a late push by Wilkes University (9-4, 7-3) to take a 2-1 win over the Colonels on Sunday afternoon in UCHC men's ice hockey action at Body Zone. 

After giving up nine goals in Saturday's contest against the Colonels, Alvernia held Wilkes to just one goal late in the third period - a power play goal - after first year goalie Jackson Fellner made 39 saves and the Alvernia defense added another nine blocks. 

Alvernia got on the board in the first minute of action as Logan vande Meerakker flicked a shot in off the right post to give Alvernia the early 1-0 lead after just 26 seconds of action. 

Alvernia had a power play opportunity to close out the first period, but the Golden Wolves were unable to get a shot off as they took a 1-0 lead into the second frame.

Alvernia held the 1-0 lead for the majority of the second period until Jordan Gagnon added what would end up being a much needed insurance goal for the Golden Wolves as a Wilkes penalty expired.

A slew of penalties marked the end of the period, but both teams came out unscathed as the game moved into the third period. 

With just over six minutes left to play, Wilkes took advantage of their seventh power play opportunity of the game to get on the board and spoil Alvernia's shutout attempt as the Colonels moved within one, 2-1. Wilkes peppered Alvernia in the final frame, outshooting the Golden Wolves 25-16, but a late Wilkes penalty and a strong Alvernia defensive showing in the final five minutes secured the 2-1 win for the Golden Wolves.

Vande Meerakker and Gagnon finished with a goal each, and Hunter Alden, Matthew Davies, Gabriel Malek, and Isaac Chapman each finished with assists. Davies also led Alvernia with two blocks and Alden and Kyle Patton each had nine faceoff wins.  

Alvernia has off for the holiday break and will return to action on January 6th hosting Buffalo State.