In the opening game of the Lindenwood Showcase, a strong opening period pushed men's ACHA DII ice hockey past Montana State 5-1 Friday afternoon at the Centene Community Ice Center in Maryland Heights, Missouri.

Four goals in the first allowed the Lions the cushion needed to keep the Bobcats at arm's length for the rest of the game. The first score came shortly after a Lindenwood power play expired. Nick Jones fed Brett Robinson at 12:35 for a 1-0 Lions lead. The next goal came just 36 seconds later when Eli Roofe and Robinson set up Gabe Vijuk at 13:11. Lindenwood continued to pressure Montana State and the result was Jack Louko sounding the horn at 15:21 on a play set up by Nick Jones and Austin Meers. With just 16 seconds remaining in the period, Robinson netted his second of the contest off a pass from Zach Maupin. After the first 20 minutes, the Lions outshot the Bobcats 18 to 2 and led 4-0.

Montana State would have a higher shot count than Lindenwood the rest of the way, but only scored once. That goal came midway through the second period at 8:39 just four-seconds into a power play caused by a Lions tripping penalty.

It remained 4-1 in favor of Lindenwood until early in the third. Gage Vierzba split the pipes at 6:25, assisted by Jake Lange and Vijuk and the 5-1 score is how the game ended.

The Lions outshot the Bobcats 39 to 34 overall and Justin Grenon stopped 33 of the 34 shots he faced to earn the victory in goal.

Lindenwood is still perfect on the season with a 12-0 record and a 19-game winning streak dating back to last season. The Lions continue action at the Lindenwood Showcase Saturday afternoon against Florida Gulf Coast. The opening faceoff is set for 1 p.m. at the Centene Community Ice Center.