Arkansas Razorbacks Show Fight in Hockey Weekend Against Missouri Tigers
Weekend Recap
Friday Night Showdown: Razorbacks in ‘Ugly Sweater’ Jerseys Fall to Tigers
In a highly-anticipated matchup at the Jones Center, the Arkansas Razorbacks donned their festive ‘ugly sweater‘ jerseys against the Missouri Tigers in what was set to be a hard-hitting first game of the weekend. The Razorbacks started strong, with Brendan Coon and Trevor Borlace putting Arkansas ahead 2-0. Missouri clawed back with a goal, ending the first period at a close 2-1.
The game’s intensity ramped up in the second period, with the Tigers edging ahead 3-2. Coon managed to net his second goal, bringing the score level to 3-3 before the final period. In a thrilling third, Missouri took control, despite a spirited effort from Mikey Gakhuthvili‘s goal for Arkansas. Ultimately, the Tigers solidified their victory with a 6-4 scoreline.
The historic crowd remained in full support until the final buzzer, marking the largest attendance for an Arkansas Hockey Club game at the Jones Center.
Saturday’s Redemption: Razorbacks Tie Series with Commanding Win
Looking to even the series, Arkansas returned in all-black uniforms for Saturday’s game, delivering a resounding win against the Missouri Tigers. The Razorbacks’ offense was relentless from the start, with team captain Kyle Crews netting two early goals and Kyle Patterson adding a third. Despite two goals from the Tigers, one from Hazelton and another from Knapp, Sam Karakker expanded Arkansas’s lead to 4-2 at the close of the first period.
The second period saw Arkansas briefly down a player but quickly recover, with Michael Gakhutishvili scoring twice, pushing the lead to 6-3. Newcomer Mac Markovich made an immediate impact with his first ACHA goal, while Missouri managed to find the net once more, ending the period at 7-4. Markovich would be mentioned by coach, Keller Sims, as a “secret weapon” in pregame, and it would be evident as to why as he has great speed, skill with the puck, and more. Markovich will be a player to watch in the second half of the season.
In the third period, Missouri reduced the deficit to two goals, but Arkansas maintained composure, with Karakker securing his second goal of the game to seal an 8-5 victory. The Razorbacks outshot the Tigers 44-38, with both teams showing tenacity until the final whistle. Arkansas goalie, Grady Reis would be spectacular in the win. His play, along with the other goalies, will be key moving forward.
Looking Forward: Razorbacks Set Sights on Missouri State Rivalry
With Missouri’s record now at 14-7-1 and Arkansas improving to an impressive 15-2-1, the Razorbacks demonstrated why they are a formidable force in their division. As the team prepares to transition to the D2 level next season, this weekend’s performance could signify a memorable end to their current rivalry with Missouri.
Next on the agenda, Arkansas will travel to Springfield to face Missouri State in another fierce matchup. Fans can expect the Razorbacks to carry their momentum into these upcoming games, which promise to be just as thrilling as the previous weekend’s clashes.
