Villanova played the Indiana University of Pennsylvania at home twice this weekend, and walked away with a win and an overtime loss.

For Saturday night's game, camo bandanas were given out to fans at the door. The IceCats wore their bandanas during warm-ups. Military veteran Bill Winterburn participated in a ceremonial puck drop and shared his story of being in the service. The Villanova team thanked him and all veterans for their service at home and abroad.

IUP opened the game strong with 2 goals within the first 4 minutes. Christopher Parisi got Villanova on the scoreboard with a goal about 8 minutes into play. IUP locked down another goal shortly after. Villanova buried their second goal, scored by Timothy Arena. Before the end of the period, IUP scored one more goal.

During the second period, Christopher Parisi scored his second goal of the game for Villanova. IUP came back with a goal about halfway through the period, but Villanova pulled through with two more goals, tying the game at the end of the period. Villanova’s goals were scored by Jim Conway and Jack Merecki.

Villanova netted two goals in the third period, thanks to Timothy Arena and Brett Mackell. IUP pulled their goalie near the end of the period, needing two goals to tie the game. They were able to score one more, but fell short of forcing an overtime.

The IceCats took home the W with a final score of 7-6. Shots on goal were 29 for Villanova and 39 for IUP, with John Persichilli in net for Villanova.

IUP and Villanova battled once again on Sunday afternoon. There was a lot less scoring this time around.

Both teams buried one goal in the first period. IUP scored first, and then David Gilfillan for Villanova. The second period was similar, each team scoring one goal. Again, IUP scored first and then Villanova. Villanova’s goal was scored by Christopher Parisi.

There was no scoring in the third period, which forced a overtime. Just about 2 minutes into overtime, IUP scored the game-winning goal. It was a heartbreaking 3-2 OT loss for the IceCats.

Villanova put up 34 shots on goal and IUP got 48. Ajay Fernandez goaltended for Villanova.

The IceCats will play a home and home series of league games against William Paterson University next weekend. Saturday’s game will be at Hatfield Ice at 7:40 p.m., and Sunday’s game at Ice Vault Rink at 6:15 p.m. Come out to support the boys!

By Amanda Trusky