Boston, Mass. (Feb. 7, 2026) — UMass Boston men's ice hockey delivered an explosive offensive effort at Edward T. Barry Ice Rink Saturday for Head Coach Peter Belisle's 500th game, defeating Plymouth State 8-5 in a pivotal Little East Conference matchup and improving their record to 12-7-1.
The Beacons set the tone early with a four-goal first period, establishing a lead they would never relinquish. The opening 20 minutes saw both teams trading goals, but UMass Boston's scoring depth proved decisive as they outpaced the Panthers to take a 4-2 advantage into the first intermission.
The second period showcased a relentless offensive tempo from both sides, with UMass Boston and Plymouth State combining for seven goals. The Beacons extended their lead to 6-5 before seizing full momentum in the final two minutes. Jude Kurtas (Hillsborough, N.J.) struck on the power play at 18:24, finishing a setup from Jazz Krivtsov (Santa Clarita, Calif.) and Chris Repmann (Middletown, N.J.). Less than two minutes later, Jack Mortson (Detroit, Mich.)added another power-play tally off passes from Kurtas and Tyler Drummond (Baldwin, N.Y.), sending UMass Boston into the second intermission with an 8-5 cushion.
In the third period, the Beacons' defense and goaltending sealed the outcome. Connor McDonough (Mendham, N.J.) turned aside all 14 shots faced during the final frame, shutting the door on any Plymouth State comeback attempt and preserving the three-goal lead to the final horn.
UMass Boston's offensive fireworks were fueled by dynamic performances from both Jazz Krivtsov and Jude Kurtas, who each finished with two goals and two assists for four points. Krivtsov led the team in plus-minus at plus-three and was instrumental on special teams, while Kurtas netted a crucial power-play goal to help break the game open late in the second.
Connor McDonough was a difference-maker in net with 41 saves on 46 shots, including a perfect third period, as he anchored a penalty kill that held Plymouth State scoreless on their two power-play chances. Jack Mortson contributed a goal and an assist, capping the Beacons' eight-goal outburst with his power-play insurance marker.
The Beacons were outshot 46-38 but made the most of their opportunities, converting two of three power-play chances. The team controlled the faceoff dot, winning 43 draws to Plymouth State's 35. UMass Boston's special teams and resilience in net proved decisive, while the Panthers were forced to rotate goaltenders after allowing eight goals.
Up Next
UMass Boston continues Little East Conference play at home, hosting New England College at Edward T. Barry Ice Rink on Saturday, Feb. 7, with puck drop scheduled for 4 p.m.
