Controversial No-Call Leads to UMass' Overtime Victory Over Gophers in NCAA Showdown

The University of Minnesota men's hockey team faced a heartbreaking exit from the NCAA Tournament on Thursday night, as the Massachusetts Minutemen clinched a dramatic victory with a game-winning goal following a controversial no-call.

The Gophers, who entered the Fargo regional as the No. 2 seed, were in a strong position, leading 3-1 as they headed into the third period. However, the No. 3 seeded Minutemen rallied, tying the game with just 11 minutes remaining. Massachusetts then took the lead with under five minutes left, but Gophers star Jimmy Snuggerud quickly responded, leveling the score at 4-4 just a minute later, forcing the game into overtime.

As the extra period unfolded, about five minutes in, Gophers defenseman Ryan Chesley carried the puck to center ice, where he appeared to be tripped by Massachusetts' Dans Locmelis. Commentators on the broadcast voiced their agreement, suggesting a foul had occurred, but the referees opted to keep their whistles silent, allowing play to continue.

Seizing the opportunity, Locmelis swiftly transitioned the puck back down the ice, setting up Aydar Suniev for the game-winning goal, sealing the Gophers' fate.

Following the game, social media erupted with reactions, as Gophers fans expressed their outrage over the controversial ending, while some Minutemen supporters argued that Chesley had exaggerated the incident and deserved no call.

The 5-4 loss marked a disappointing end to the Gophers' season, while UMass advanced to face Western Michigan for a chance to compete in the Frozen Four.

Snuggerud, a standout player and candidate for the prestigious Hobey Baker Award, was drafted by the St. Louis Blues in 2022. With the Gophers' season now concluded, speculation arises regarding his potential move to the NHL, although he has yet to publicly disclose his plans.