Vikings Win Third Straight

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. – Erik Larsson's second goal of the game in the third period proved to be the difference as Salem State won their third straight, one-goal game in a 3-2 win over UMass Dartmouth in a critical MASCAC conference contest on Saturday.  

The Vikings, who were on the outside of the playoff picture a week ago, are now looking to move up even hire in the standings. Salem State is now 7-16-0, 5-11-0 on the year while the Corsairs slump to 8-14-2, 6-10-1.

Larsson has been on a tear the last six games, scoring nine goals while adding four assists as Salem State has gone 4-2 over that stretch. A scoreless opening period led to UMass Dartmouth striking first as Kevin Johnston put the Corsairs in front 1-0 on a power-play just 1:47 into the second. Larsson countered at the 10:47 mark, but Matthew Zdanowicz regained the lead for UMass Dartmouth before Zach Dill tied the game 2-2 in the final minute of the second. 

Larsson scored the game-winning goal at the 3:57 mark of the third and goalie Aaron Mercer, who finished with 31 saves, made all eight saves in the final period to preserve the victory.   

Daniel Davidson stopped 29 shots in the loss for the Corsairs, who edged the Vikings, 33-22 in shots on goal.