Strong third period wins it for Sacred Heart Pioneers against Niagara Purple Eagles

A tight game between home-team Niagara Purple Eagles and visiting Sacred Heart Pioneers wasn't settled until the third period, when Sacred Heart scored the game-winning goal, ending it 5-1.

The hosting team took the lead in the first period, a goal by Carter Randklev. Shane Ott and Ryan Cox assisted.

Blake Humphrey scored in the second period, assisted by Ryan Steele and Dante Fantauzzi.

The Pioneers took the lead early into the third period when Aidan Connolly beat the goalie.

Ryan Steele increased the lead to 3-1 eight minutes later, assisted by Conner Hutchison and Austin Magera.

Neil Shea increased the lead to 4-1 six minutes later, assisted by Braeden Tuck and Luke Lush.

The Pioneers increased the lead to 5-1 with 39 seconds of play remaining in the third after a goal from Kevin Lombardi.

Next up:

Both teams play on Friday, with the Purple Eagles hosting the Lakers at 6:35 p.m. CST, and the Pioneers playing the Golden Griffins at 6 p.m. CST.