LEAVENWORTH, KS – The University of Saint Mary's Rocket League Gold team fought their way through an epic seven-game series against the University of Northern Iowa last night, ultimately clinching a 4-3 victory to advance to the NECC Championship.

Despite a strong start from Alejandro De Aguero, who scored two goals, USM Gold dropped the opening game 2-4. However, the Spires roared back in game two with a commanding 5-2 win, led by a hat trick from Shamar Bryant, with Hudson Bell and De Aguero also contributing goals. USM Gold took the series lead in game three with a 2-1 victory, featuring goals from De Aguero and Bell, and solid defense from Bryant. Game four saw the Spires extend their lead to 3-1 with a 3-2 win, Bryant scoring twice and Bell once.

UNI showed their resilience, taking the next two games 5-2 and 4-1 to tie the series and force a decisive game seven. In the final and most crucial matchup, USM Gold came out with renewed energy, quickly taking the lead with early goals from Bryant and De Aguero. The Spires continued to push, ultimately securing a 5-3 victory. Bryant finished the game with a goal and two saves, while Bell and De Aguero each scored two goals.

UP NEXT: USM Gold will compete for the NECC Championship on Thursday, April 10th at 8:30 P.M. Their opponent will be either Missouri State University or Arkansas State Black, with the other semifinal match yet to be played.