NC State Drops OT Thriller to No. 4 Liberty to Close Series

LYNCHBURG, Va. – The Icepack fell in overtime to No. 4 Liberty on Saturday, closing out a home-and-home series with the Flames at LaHaye Ice Center. 

BOX SCORE | SKATER STATS

The Icepack, coming off Friday’s opener in Raleigh, traveled to Lynchburg and delivered a strong defensive performance in front of a packed crowd. Goaltender Ethan Roberts played brilliantly, holding Liberty scoreless through regulation before the Flames scored with 1:13 remaining in the sudden-death overtime period. 

“We knew these games were going to be a battle,” NC State captain Zach Herman told ESPN+ during the first intermission. “Over 60 minutes, every little detail adds up to what’s on the scoreboard. Try to win all the small battles, small details, and we see where it takes us.”

Roberts stopped 48 of 49 shots, and the Icepack matched the intensity and pace of the Flames throughout the game. NC State’s penalty kill unit was impressive and a necessary strength of the night, keeping Liberty from scoring on any of their four power plays. 

The game opened with a fast, physical pace from both teams, a noticeable shift from Friday’s series opener. The Icepack pushed through the neutral zone more effectively and generated more time in their offensive zone. 

Despite the overtime defeat, NC State left with momentum after a weekend that showcased the team’s ability to hold its own against top-tier opponents. 

The Icepack returns to Invisalign Arena this weekend for their first ACCHL League Weekend.