Pierce Scores Twice as Men’s Ice Hockey Ties Merrimack

Friday, December 17

North Andover, Mass.

7:00 PM

Dartmouth College

2-8-1

Merrimack

6-9-1

Dartmouth

Merrimack

Pierce Scores Twice as Men’s Ice Hockey Ties Merrimack

12/17/2021 10:39:00 PM | Men's Ice Hockey

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Freshman Ian Pierce scored the first two goals of his collegiate career.

By: Nick Romei

NORTH ANDOVER, Mass. — The Dartmouth men's ice hockey team played to a 2-2 tie against Merrimack at Lawler Rink on Friday evening.

The Big Green are now 2-8-1 while Merrimack is 6-9-1.

Freshman Ian Pierce scored both goals for Dartmouth, the first two of his career. Sophomore goaltender Clay Stevenson finished with a career-high 36 saves.

Merrimack opened up the scoring early into the first period when Alex Jeffries found Mac Welsher in front of goal to take the 1-0 lead.

The Big Green answered just two minutes after forcing a turnover from the Warriors. Pierce found himself with some open space and ripped off a shot past the Merrimack goaltender for his first career goal and to tie the game.

It was a scoreless second period, but it was certainly entertaining. Sophomore Clay Stevenson made 16 saves in the frame, including several big stops in the final seconds to keep it tied.

Dartmouth took the lead with just under five minutes remaining in the third period. Senior Sam Hesler had the puck in the corner before playing it back towards the blue line to senior Harrison Markell. Markell played the puck across to Pierce, who fired it into the back of the net for his second of the night.

The Warriors responded roughly a minute later to tie the game at 2-2. There was a loose puck in front of goal, and Mick Messner pounced on it to equalize for Merrimack.

Both teams had several chances to find the winner late in the third period. After regulation, we had a 5:00 sudden victory 3v3 period. Again, both teams had great opportunities but neither side could find the breakthrough.

Dartmouth is off for the holiday break and returns to action on December 30 when they host New Hampshire in the Ledyard Classic. The game will be live on NESN and available to stream on ESPN+.