The IceCats came ready to play in the ECHA quarterfinal game this past Friday at IceLine. They faced the United States Naval Academy for the third time this season, having both won and lost a game to them.

Before the game began, ECHA league commissioner Gregg Marinari announced the players who made the 2018-2019 ECHA first-team and second-team all-stars. Representing Villanova, Brett Mackell was named first-team all star defenseman—a well-earned title!

The game was off to a quick start, with Navy putting in a goal just over a minute into the game off of an unfortunate bounce through the crease. With this goal, the IceCats woke up and got on the scoreboard about halfway through the period. The goal was scored by Richie Halevy and assitisted by Brett Mackell.

The first period ended with a score of 1-1. The score remained the same throughout the entire second period, which saw no scoring but plenty of power play opportunities for both teams.

The last period saw the most action, and Villanova gained a lot of energy after taking the lead and scoring 7 minutes into the third. Jack Merecki scored the goal for the IceCats, assisted by Brett Mackell and Richie Halevy. With 5 minutes left in the period, Navy tied up the game 2-2. A couple minutes later, Navy scored again on the power play, taking the lead and eventually winning the game.

Shots on goal were 34 for Vilanova and 40 for Navy. John Persichilli goaltended for Villanova.

It was a heartbreaking loss for the IceCats, but Villanova played a strong and exciting last game of the season. The coaching staff spoke very highly of the team’s hard work, commitment, and sportsmanship. The team’s final record was 16-15-2. Congrats to the IceCats on an awesome season!

By Amanda Trusky