Rivier Skates by Vikings, 3-2

THE BASICS

Salem State, 2 vs. Rivier, 3

Records:

Rivier College Raiders (1-6-0, 1-1-0)

Salem State University Vikings (2-3-1, 0-2-1)

Location: Nashua, N.H. – Conway Arena

Date: November 19, 2025

THE LEAD

NASHUA, N.H. — The Salem State men's hockey team traveled to Nashua, New Hampshire, on November 19, 2025, dropping a contest to Rivier, 3-2. Despite good defensive efforts and tying the game in the third period, the Vikings struggled to overcome the Raiders. Salem State’s two goals came from James Tatro and Jon Waselko.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The first period saw Rivier take an early lead, scoring just 1:40 into the game. Salem State went on the power play early, with Rivier’s Aaron Sawaki getting a two-minute minor for holding. While the Vikings had a few strong chances on the power play, none went through. The Raiders scored again at 12:09 in the period, extending their lead to 2-0. The Vikings went on the power play again later in the period, but ultimately went into the first break with no goals scored.

Salem State went on the penalty kill early in the second frame, with Carson James (Jr.) taking a two-minute minor for cross checking. The Vikings managed to successfully kill the penalty, holding the Raiders to just two shots on goal during their power play. James Tatro (So.) cut the Raiders’ lead in half, scoring off a rebound 9:24 into the period. The Vikings went into the third frame still trailing the Raiders, 2-1.

John Waselko (So.) evened the game at 2 with a goal 1:09 into the final period. Rivier was quick to reclaim their lead, with a power play goal from Aaron Sawicki to make the game 3-2. The Vikings put up 14 shots on goal in the final frame, but struggled to overcome the Raiders. In one final effort to tie the game, the Vikings pulled Nepveu from the net with just 0:40 remaining. The Vikings were unable to tie the game and force overtime, ultimately falling to the Raiders.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

The Vikings generated high offensive volume throughout the game, outshooting Rivier 57-41 over three periods. Salem State also saw success in the faceoffs, winning 39 of 71 faceoffs throughout the game.

· James Tatro recorded the Vikings’ first goal.

· Jon Waselko scored the game tying goal in the third period.

· Salem State managed to kill three of Rivier’s four power play chances and allowed only one goal from the Raiders’ power play.

UP NEXT

The Vikings are on the road this Saturday, November 22, facing off against Framingham State at 7:50 p.m.

By Liv Davison

Photo Credit: Lilly Nunez '25