Hobart hockey saw its championship run end Sunday in a narrow 2-1 overtime loss to No. 6 Hamilton in the national title game at the Adirondack Bank Center.
The top-ranked Statesmen (30-1-0) controlled much of the play, outshooting Hamilton 40-25, including an 8-4 edge in overtime, but were unable to solve goaltender Aksel Reid in the extra session.
Hobart struck first in the opening period when Kahlil Fontana capitalized on a power play, finishing a rebound chance to give the Statesmen a 1-0 lead. Hobart continued to pressure early, but Reid turned aside 11 first-period shots to keep Hamilton within one.
The Continentals answered just 15 seconds into the second period, tying the game on a deflection in front. Hobart regained control of the period with a 10-4 shot advantage but could not convert, as Reid made several key stops.
The third period remained scoreless despite chances on both ends. Damon Beaver came up with crucial saves late in regulation, including a stop in the final minutes to force overtime.
Hobart carried momentum into the extra session, generating multiple scoring opportunities, but Reid denied all eight shots faced in overtime. Hamilton capitalized on a transition opportunity, scoring the game-winner at 16:44 of overtime to secure the title.
Beaver finished with 23 saves in net, while Hobart went 1-for-1 on the power play and held Hamilton scoreless on its lone opportunity.
The loss ended Hobart’s fourth straight appearance in the national championship game, concluding a 30-win season.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.