Heslop Scores Improbable Goal, Wolverines Take Down Aquinas in WHAC Quarterfinals
The Wolverines take on Indiana Tech in the WHAC Quarterfinals on Saturday.
DEARBORN, Mich. – In a tightly contested battle through two periods, No. 4 University of Michigan-Dearborn erupted for four third-period goals to defeat No. 5 Aquinas, 4-0, in Friday evening's quarterfinal matchup at the Dearborn Ice Skating Center.
After 40 minutes of scoreless hockey, the Wolverines finally broke through at the 12:51 mark of the third period when Ryan Teets found the back of the net off a feed from Brenden Paden. The breakthrough ignited a late surge that quickly put the game out of reach.
Less than four minutes later, Max Hartwell doubled the lead with a finish set up by Carter Allen and Will Barrett. With Aquinas pressing and its net empty, Michigan-Dearborn capitalized twice in the final minutes. David Dell buried an empty-net goal at 17:23, assisted by Bailey Byrd and Caleb Cathcart.
Then came a moment rarely seen at any level of hockey.
With the net empty once again, goaltender Trevor Heslop fired the puck the length of the ice and into the back of the net with 28 seconds remaining, becoming the goal-scorer in one of the sport's most improbable feats. Goalie goals are exceptionally rare, making Heslop's tally a standout moment in the Wolverines' postseason run.
Heslop's night was remarkable on both ends of the ice, as he not only scored but also stopped all 26 shots he faced to secure the shutout and first-star honors. The Wolverines controlled much of the play throughout, outshooting Aquinas 44-26 and dictating possession, particularly in the second period.
Despite limited special teams opportunities on both sides, Michigan-Dearborn maintained discipline and structure, allowing just one power play chance for Aquinas while generating consistent offensive pressure at even strength.
With the win, UM-Dearborn advances to the semifinal round, using a decisive third-period outburst and a historic performance in goal to continue its postseason push.
