Cheers and gasps from the crowd were heard every time a huge hit was delivered and a player was upended Saturday night at Sullivan Arena — and there were too many to count.
Players struggled to stay on their feet in the latest installment to the Governor's Cup hockey series between UAA and UAF, with all their efforts ending in a 1-1 tie in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association game.
UAA took an early lead on a goal from Connor Wright of Anchorage two minutes into the contest.
The goal, which gave UAA (8-7-3, 5-5-3 WCHA) its first lead in a pair of weekend games against UAF (5-10-3, 3-8-3), came in Wright's first game back from an injury.
"The Anchorage kids know what this rivalry is all about, and these guys find a way to step up their game," UAA coach Matt Thomas said. "This was his first game back. Great to see him get rewarded for that."
The Nanooks finally scored late in the second period. UAF captain Tyler Morley received a pass in front of the net and put it in before Olivier Mantha could slide over to defend it.
UAA's best chance to retake the lead came late in the third period. UAF's Austin Vieth received a major penalty for contact to the head against UAA's Nicolas Erb-Ekholm.
The Seawolves had nine shots on goal in the ensuing power play, but UAF goaltender Jesse Jenks was solid in front of the net.
The game went to overtime and chaos resulted. The puck didn't stay on either side for very long.
The Seawolves started with a rocket by Chase Van Allen that was grabbed by Jenks above his left shoulder. The extra period ended with Mantha corralling a shot in a crowded crease as time expired.
"It was a pretty entertaining OT," Thomas said. "Both teams had some good, high-quality chances. The two goaltenders stole the show."
Jenks ended with 32 saves for UAF. Mantha had 26 for UAA.
The series, which began Friday with UAF's 2-1 win, resumes March 4-5 in Fairbanks.
"You tip your hat to Fairbanks," Thomas said. "It was really hard to earn any opportunities out there. That's what you'd expect out of this type of rival."