After failing to convert on four chances to tie the game in the final minute and 14 seconds, the Icecats fell to Iowa State 3-2 in the opening game of round-robin play at the American Collegiate Hockey Association national tournament in Athens, Ohio.

With a minute to play, senior defenseman Mark Thawley's shot hit the post, and junior forward Andy Knick's goal was waved off because the net had been dislodged.

"It was a tough one for the kids, because we just didn't get it done in the context of putting the puck in the net," Icecat head coach Leo Golembiewski said.

The loss overshadowed the return of starting goalie Joel Hilshey. Hilshey had not played since straining his left hamstring against Colorado State on Feb. 10.

"Hilshey played exceptionally, exceptionally well," Golembiewski said.

Hilshey turned away 25 shots in the game, but a miscommunication on the ice led to the deciding goal. The Icecat defensemen, thinking the puck was deep in the Cyclone zone, left the ice for a shift change, but Iowa State cleared the puck and scored on a 2-0 breakaway.

"Me and (assistant coach) Jeremy (Goltz) had the team as ready as they could be," Golembiewski said. "We came out flying, but couldn't get it done."

Iowa State senior forward Chris Polis had two goals. Icecat freshman center Ben Ruston had one goal and an assist.

The Icecats were scheduled to play Arizona State today at 8 a.m. Tucson time.