ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The University of Providence hockey team fell to Iowa State 3-2 in the first game of pool play at the ACHA Division II National Tournament.

The Argos (14-6) got off to a hot start, scoring two power play goals within the first five minutes to take a 2-0 lead. Levi Anderson got the squad on the board first just 2:41 into the game. Leo Felt followed that a minute later, finding the back of the net off the assist from Ty Alger.

The Cyclones got on the board with four minutes left in the first period to cut the lead to one into the break. They kept it rolling in the second period, scoring two more goals in the second period to make a league. Both teams couldn't score in the third period, solidifying the game for the Clones.

"Honestly I thought we played a really solid hockey game," head coach Jeff Heimel said. "We started red hot and scored two quick goals. It was one of those things where we felt like we were in control for a lot of points in the game. They had two goals in the second. We had numerous scoring chances and it just seemed like we couldn't get those and pull away. We just ran out of game. It was one of the most complete efforts of the season. I was really proud of the guys."

Despite the loss, the team is still alive to advance to the Final Four. To do that, they'll have to defeat the top seed in their pool, Florida Gulf Coast, tomorrow during their showdown Tuesday night to force a tiebreak scenario.

"At the end of the day we are thankful to still have some daylight to work with the pool play games," Heimel said. "They are still must-win games. We're disappointed but we're ready to get back out there."

The Argos know they'll have their hands full with the Eagles, but feel confident that they'll be able to respond.

"We're going to rest and relax until the game," Heimel said. "We're going to let the guys sleep in a little bit. We're going to go out and enjoy another hockey game. We're going to watch our opponent tomorrow play Monday night and just prepare from there."