Men's Ice Hockey Comes Up Short Against Seahawks
THE BASICS
Salve Regina, 5 vs. Salem State, 2
Records:
Salve Regina Seahawks (18-4-0)
Salem State Vikings (4-11-2)
Location: Middletown, Rhode Island
Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026
The Lead:
Despite a sensational performance by Hunter Thomas, who stopped 54 shots in net, and a strong offensive performance from the Vikings, the Salem State men's ice hockey team would battle evenly with Salve Regina for much of the contest. However, a late offensive surge by the Seahawks proved to be the difference, as Salve Regina scored three quick goals in the third period to pull away for a 5–2 victory.
How It Happened:
Salve Regina opened the scoring early in the first period, but the Vikings answered just over two minutes later. Shane Taddia evened the game at 1–1 with a goal set up by Carson Whitman and Nick Sweet, swinging momentum back to Salem State. The remainder of the opening frame featured strong play at both ends as Hunter Thomas made several key saves to keep the game knotted.
The second period was scoreless, though Salve Regina controlled much of the play offensively. Thomas was spectacular in net, turning aside a steady stream of chances to keep the Vikings level. Salem State generated opportunities of its own, but neither team was able to break through.
The Seahawks struck early in the third period, scoring just over two minutes into the frame to take a 2–1 lead. Salem State responded midway through the period when Eric Whitelaw found the back of the net off feeds from Aren Francis to tie the game at 2–2.
The game remained tied until the late stages of the third period, but the Seahawks were able to capitalize on a brief stretch of momentum late, scoring three consecutive goals to secure the 5–2 win over the Vikings. Despite the loss, Hunter Thomas delivered an outstanding performance between the pipes, making numerous saves to keep Salem State in the game until the late third-period push by the Seahawks.
INSIDE THE NUMBERS
Thomas was the story of the game for Salem State, stopping 54 of 58 shots (.931 save percentage) and consistently keeping the Vikings in the contest against a high powered Seahawks offense.
Shane Taddia and Eric Whitlaw would both carry the offense for the Vikings tonight each with a goal against the Seahawks. All while Carson Whitman, Nick Sweet and Aren Francis would each tally an assit for the Vikings against the Seahawks.
UP NEXT
The Vikings will be back in action when they return to home ice on Saturday January 24th, 2026 where they will look to take on the Owls of Westfield State for a conference matchup. Puck drop is set to start at 7:00pm.