The men's ACHA division II hockey team got back in the win column Saturday Night with a decisive 4-1 victory against the University of Kentucky Wildcats at Centene Community Ice Center in Maryland Heights, Missouri. For the Lions, this was only their second game this season following a loss, so it was important that they respond well.

The Lions were able to set the tone for the game early, scoring their first goal of the contest just 4:00 into the first period. Gage Vierzba started the scoring for the Lions, netting his 10^th of the season thanks to assists from Jacob Brehnen and Jake Lange. The Wildcats were on their heels for most of the period as the Lions mounted 17 shots on goal in the first frame. However, the score remained just 1-0 until the horn sounded.

Lindenwood kept the momentum going into the second period, but a Gavin Delfosse slashing minor led to the Wildcats first goal. While on the power play, Kentucky tied the game 1-1 at 9:26. The deadlock would not last for long though as Jack Louko made it 2-1 Lions at 12:40. His 4^th goal of the season was assisted by Delfosse, who was fresh out of the box, and Zac Maupin. The score remained 2-1 for the remainder of the period, but an indirect contact to the head penalty by Kentucky set the stage for yet another chippy period of play by the Lions.

The Lions started the third period on the power play but were unable to capitalize on the man-advantage. However, less than a minute after the power play expired, Jack Louko got on the board again with his 5^th goal of the season. The play, set up by Behnen again, gave the Lions a 3-1 lead and some much-needed insurance. Lindenwood drew another minor, this time for roughing at 3:56, but were unable to extend their lead anymore. The final nail in the coffin came, however, at 16:06. Austin Meers set up Nick Jones for his 12^th goal of the year making the score 4-1. The Lions totaled 40 shots on goal for the game and comfortably held their 4-1 lead for the remainder of the game.  

The penalty kill was imperative to the Lions victory Saturday night. The special teams unit was able to kill off two of the three Kentucky penalties, including a 10-minute misconduct by Logan Millhausen midway through the third period. Justin Grenon was solid in the contest, stopping 22 of 23 Kentucky shots and earning the win. With the victory, Lindenwood improved to 15-2 on the season.

The Lions will battle the Wildcats again on Sunday at Centene Community Ice Center. Puck drop is scheduled for 1 p.m