In a thrilling Hockey East semifinal showdown at TD Garden, the No. 17 Boston College Eagles faced off against the No.
13/14 UConn Huskies, ultimately falling 4-3 in overtime. The game was a nail-biter from start to finish, with Dean Letourneau shining for the Eagles, netting two power-play goals.
Ryan Conmy also found the back of the net, while James Hagens contributed two assists. Louka Cloutier was solid between the pipes, making 28 crucial saves.
Boston College wrapped up their season with a 20-15-1 record, while UConn advanced with a 20-11-5 mark.
Cloutier set the tone early, making key back-to-back stops to keep things even. Both teams had their chances in the opening period, each earning power-play opportunities, but the scoreboard remained untouched after the first 20 minutes.
The Eagles wasted no time in the second period, striking first with a power-play goal. A well-executed play saw Gasseau connect with Letourneau, who delivered a precise back-post shot to open the scoring.
UConn quickly answered back, leveling the game with a shot from the right board that found its way through traffic.
Letourneau wasn't done yet, adding his second power-play goal just over five minutes into the period. A slick pass from Gustafsson deflected off Hagens' stick, landing perfectly for Letourneau to flick it over the UConn goalie’s pad, putting BC back in front. The Huskies responded once more, tying it up with a close-range effort that left the game deadlocked heading into the final break.
With 7:31 left in regulation, UConn took their first lead, but the Eagles showed resilience. Ryan Conmy unleashed a powerful slapshot to even the score at 3-3, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. Despite both teams pushing for the game-winner, regulation ended with the score tied, sending the contest into overtime.
It didn’t take long for the Huskies to seal the deal in extra time, scoring the decisive goal just a minute and a half into the period off a deflection.
Scoring Summary:
- 2nd Period, 0:39: BC - Dean Letourneau (Andre Gasseau, James Hagens) - PP
- 2nd Period, 1:32: UC - Trey Scott (Joey Muldowney, Ryan Tattle)
- 2nd Period, 5:09: BC - Dean Letourneau (James Hagens, Lukas Gustafsson) - PP
- 2nd Period, 8:28: UC - Ethan Whitcomb (Mike Murtagh, Ethan Gardula)
- 3rd Period, 12:28: UC - Mike Murtagh (Ethan Whitcomb, Viking Gustafsson Nyberg)
- 3rd Period, 14:13: BC - Ryan Conmy (Teddy Stiga, Drew Fortescue)
- OT, 1:18: UC - Tristian Fraser (Tabor Heaslip, Jake Percival)
Game Notes:
The Eagles put up a valiant effort, showcasing their power-play prowess and resilience throughout the game. Despite the heartbreaking loss, Boston College can hold their heads high after a hard-fought season. UConn, on the other hand, moves forward with momentum, eyeing the championship with confidence.