Novotny's Late Goal Lifts Muskegon Lumberjacks in Game 1 Playoff Win

Lumberjacks overcome early deficits to take series opener against Cedar Rapids Roughriders

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:11pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the chaotic action of a hockey game, with players and the puck represented as abstract geometric shapes and angles against a deconstructed arena backdrop.Muskegon's late-game heroics in the playoff opener showcase the team's ability to overcome adversity and seize victory.Muskegon Today

The Muskegon Lumberjacks rallied from two one-goal deficits to defeat the Cedar Rapids Roughriders 3-2 in Game 1 of their opening-round playoff series. Melvin Novotny scored the game-winning goal in the third period to give Muskegon the victory.

Why it matters

The Lumberjacks' comeback win in the series opener puts them in a strong position to advance to the next round of the Clark Cup playoffs. As the higher seed, Muskegon will look to build on this momentum and clinch the series on home ice.

The details

The Roughriders struck first with a goal from Nick Romeo in the opening period. Muskegon's Melvin Novotny tied the game in the second period with a power-play tally, but Cedar Rapids quickly regained the lead with a goal from Connor Davis. Carter Sanderson evened the score late in the second before Novotny netted the game-winner in the third period.

  • The Roughriders scored the lone first-period goal at the 8:20 mark.
  • Novotny tied the game 1-1 with a power-play goal at the 9:59 mark of the second period.
  • Davis put the Roughriders back on top at the 11:27 mark of the second period.
  • Sanderson tied the game 2-2 late in the second period.
  • Novotny scored the game-winning goal 4:49 into the third period.

The players

Melvin Novotny

A forward for the Muskegon Lumberjacks who scored two goals, including the game-winner, in the Game 1 victory.

Nick Romeo

A forward for the Cedar Rapids Roughriders who scored the opening goal of the game.

Connor Davis

A forward for the Cedar Rapids Roughriders who scored to give his team a 2-1 lead in the second period.

Carter Sanderson

A forward for the Muskegon Lumberjacks who scored the game-tying goal late in the second period.

Carl Axelsson

The goaltender for the Muskegon Lumberjacks who made 17 saves to earn the victory.

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What they’re saying

“We knew we had to battle back after falling behind early, but the guys showed a lot of heart and determination to get this important Game 1 win.”

— Mike Keenan, Head Coach, Muskegon Lumberjacks

What’s next

The Lumberjacks will look to complete the series sweep when they host the Roughriders in Game 2 on Saturday night at 8:05 PM.

The takeaway

Muskegon's come-from-behind victory in the series opener demonstrates the team's resilience and ability to win close playoff games. If the Lumberjacks can maintain this level of play, they will be a tough out for any opponent in their quest for the Clark Cup.