Pack Take Out HPU 8-2, On Opening Night

(Morrisville, NC) The NC State Icepack had an impressive home opener at Invisalign Arena; coming back from a slow start, the Icepack scored six unanswered goals to defeat High Point University Panthers 8-2.

High Point University opened the scoring early, with Panthers AJ Beugen scoring a goal off the back of Icepack goaltender Addison Lawrence from below the goaline. The Panthers would hold the lead until the second half of the period, when Freshman Brooks Willoughby-Ray tied the score, 1-1 with his first goal as a member of the Icepack. Newly appointed Icepack Captain Zach Herman would go on to record a four point night, as well as a hat trick with his three goal performance.

The second and third periods contained an abundance of scoring, primarily from NC State. Freshman Daniel Prazma made a powerful first impression, recording 3 assists in his debut with the Icepack. NC State controlled the puck and play the majority of the second period, recording three goals. One goal came from Defenseman Nick Librizzi on a shorthanded opportunity, and another from Captain Zach Herman, both goals just 17 seconds apart from each other. 

Senior Joey Gouveia recorded 2 goals during the 3rd period, the second of which came from Willoughby-Ray, giving the freshman a goal and assist in his debut.  Forward Holden Koufman recorded a goal, as well as Forward Nick Shook having 2 assists on the night.
This dominating performance from NC State gives high hopes for the rest of the season, particularly with how well conditioned the team looked on the ice, showing high energy through the entire 60 minutes. This confidence on the ice will be well needed motivation going into their matchup with Virginia Tech next Friday.