Kevin Roy is a pure scorer.

Nowadays the Quebec native plies his trade for the Northeastern Huskies, but the freshman first came on the hockey scene as a 13-year-old thanks to a YouTube video of some nifty trick shots. Perhaps that kind of attention prepared Roy for the spotlight of the Beanpot, where on Monday he won MVP honors impressively in a losing effort, scoring five goals in two games.

Check out the video above to learn a little more about the Northeastern star.

End of Game, BC Wins 6-3: Well, BC just outclassed Northeastern in this one. Give the Huskies a huge amount of credit for making it a close contest early in the third period, but ultimately BC was just a more talented squad, and they proved it over 60 minutes.

Good choice on giving the tournament MVP to Kevin Roy and his five goals, even if it was in a losing effort. However, BC’s depth trumped Roy’s stellar play on Monday, and they’re the ones lifting the Beanpot right now. Perhaps most impressively, BC has never lost a Beanpot final that they’ve been a part of.

Well, thanks for sticking around our live blog, folks. Hope we were able to shed a little light on what’s going on on the ice.

3rd Period, 5:15, BC 5-3: Once again, we said Gaudreau would have to figure into this game, and with two goals he has in a big way. That was a more vintage effort from him, being the trailer and finding himself in the right place at the right time.

Now, with time quickly running out, Northeastern’s going to have to really bear down and make something happen to catch the Eagles. Otherwise it will be BC raising the Beanpot for the fourth consecutive year.

3rd Period, 15:00, BC 4-3: Well, it would be an improbable comeback, but it’s certainly in the works.

After BC takes an ill-advised penalty, Northeastern makes them pay, cutting the Eagles’ lead to just one goal with a lot of time left to play. NU looks completely renewed early in the period, keeping their legs moving and skating well, while BC looks to be back on its heels a little bit.

3rd Period, 19:45, 4-2 BC: Well, the Huskies needed a quick goal to open the period, and Roy stepped up. In the process, he becomes the first player to score at least five goals in a Beanpot tournament since 1973.

In actuality, that’s a pick that should probably be stopped by Milner. It was just a long-range wrist shot that beat him, without even the benefit of a screen. But, somehow, the seeing-eye shot found its way over Milner’s right shoulder and into the short right corner of the net.

Second Intermission, BC 4-1: Well, we’re going to let this tweet speak for itself. For the record, Northeastern’s president is Dr. Joseph E. Aoun, and apparently he has an awesome sense of humor.

Enjoy:

Northeastern's president just showed up and is posing with an enormous photo of his own head. http://t.co/0zdo4AeY

—
Bill Barnwell (@billbarnwell) February 12, 2013

End of 2nd Period, BC 4-1: And here’s where the pace of the game becomes important.

For a while it’s seemed like the high-tempo pace of the game was not well-suited for Northeastern. And that finally catches up with them at the end of the second period, as the Eagles score another two goals in rapid succession. The second (their fourth of the night) came off a bad misplay by Rawlings, who tried to hand the puck off rather than just covering it.

So, that may have taken some of the wind out of the sails of the Huskies and the third period in general, as BC now has a commanding lead to go with its dominant puck-possession play heading into the game’s final third.

2nd Period, 1:08, BC 3-1: Well, that was certainly an innocent-looking play, but it leads to a goal and another two-score lead for BC.

Not much Northeastern goaltender Chris Rawlings could do about that one. It looked like the puck, which was already knuckling, was tipped twice on its way to the goal.

2nd Period, 4:40, BC 2-1: Well, Roy made it happen last week with a hat trick, and now he’s picking up right where he left off.

Roy flat out beats BC goaltender Parker Milner with his wrist shot, waiting for a little screen to develop before beating Milner over his left shoulder.

2nd Period, 5:46, BC 2-0: For the record, that second goal was indeed credited to Gaudreau as an unassisted tally.

So, just like we said pregame, Gaudreau ends up playing a big role in the game. And, despite the best efforts of the Huskies’ defense to blanket No. 13 and keep him off the puck, he still makes it happen all by himself.

2nd period, 7:52, BC 2-0: No sooner had we mentioned the conspicuous absence of Gaudreau than he makes something happen for BC, setting up (possibly scoring) a goal to put BC up 2-0.

First, Bill Arnold takes advantage of a turnover and some subsequently sloppy defense on the part of Northeastern, putting home a one-timer to draw first blood for the Eagles. Then, Gaudreau makes it happen the old fashioned way, putting puck into the Northeastern crease before taking a couple whacks at the goaltender’s pads to tap one over the line.

So, for all their dominant play, BC finally have a lead to show for it with just under eight minutes left in the second period.

2nd Period, 9:54: Although he’s done a good job on the forecheck today, it’s hard to notice that we haven’t taken notice of Johnny Gaudreau much.

The talented offensive player has mostly been kept quiet in the offensive zone, so that’s something of a surprise. Give some credit to the Huskies defense for keeping him blanketed, and giving him the extra bump every opportunity they’ve had.

2nd Period, 11:48: The period began with some furious back-and-forth play, including a golden opportunity from point-blank range for Northeastern’s Garrett Vermeersch.

However, Northeaster has also been very, very lucky. First, Colton Saucerman drew a tripping penalty against BC when the real culprit seemed to be his own shoelaces. Then, the Huskies got away with a clear penalty after having six men on the ice for several seconds.

Overall, BC’s gotten the better of play, but it’s been slightly more even. However, the tempo would seem to favor BC, who’s better suited to play an up-and-down, shootout style of hockey.

End of 1st Period: Tempers flare as the whistle sounds due to a late shot on goal, but at the end of a period we’re still tied with no scoring.

That being said, BC has clearly, undeniably had the better of play so far. They’ve simply had the puck in the Northeastern zone for most of the game thus far, as the Huskies are lucky to still be even with the Eagles. After a couple goal-mouth scrums, BC could easily be up by at least a couple goals.

For BC, no one player looks particularly dangerous, but Gaudreau looks like he’s really trying hard to find open space, to no avail. Northeastern, meanwhile, needs to find a way to slow the pace of the game and hold on to the puck a little bit. Saponari has given them an occasional threat, but the rest of the team hasn’t looked up to the task so far.

However, despite BC’s dominance, we’re still tied and Northeastern still very much has life if they can get it together.

1st Period, 2:55: Looks like someone on the Huskies is going to go to the box for a hooking call, but more on that later.

Northeastern is finally getting some opportunistic offense together, but it’s mostly just from picking off errant pucks in BC’s zone. Likewise, their defense has had trouble standing up the Eagles at the red line, but is doing a good job of backchecking and getting sticks and bodies in front of passes.

Vinny Saponari has really been Northeastern’s standout so far. A couple times already he’s turned on the jets, showing some impressive speed up the boards and putting BC on their heels. Roy needs to be looking for the front of the net to find a rebound or pass from Saponari.

1st Period, 9:36: Halfway through the first period and Northeastern has yet to get a shot on goal, while BC has already had a couple opportunities to poke at loose pucks in front of the goal mouth.

In short, right now BC is just outclassing Northeastern, as the latter wasn’t able to get set up at all in the offensive zone on their first power play chance. Northeastern probably needs to simplify its play a little bit and just look to play some puck possession games to try and get the puck into the BC zone.

1st Period, 13:38: Roy gets booked early for a well-deserved penalty, as he just rolled right over the BC player.

On the ensuing power play, both teams can probably take positives away. For the first minute or so BC did well to set up in the offensive zone, nearly getting a goal on a tip that went just wide of the net. On Northeastern’s end, they were able to disrupt BC during the second half of the power play, using an effective forecheck to waste some extra ticks in the BC end of the ice.

7:30 p.m.: Alright folks, we’re almost ready to drop the puck here, as the BC Eagles will try to win their fourth consecutive Beanpot.

During the pregame Kevin Roy of Northeastern was profiled, and he did indeed look dangerous a week ago, netting a hat trick. However, Johnny Gaudreau is not only one of the best players in Hockey East, but in the entire country. He was kept relatively quiet during the semifinal, having at least one golden opportunity stopped at the goal, so it would be a safe bet that he won’t be shut down again.

12:45 p.m. ET: The Beanpot will wrap up on Monday night as Boston College takes on Northeastern at TD Garden at 7:30 p.m.

The Eagles will be going for their fourth straight Beanpot championship. Only two teams have accomplished that feat before — Boston University rallied off six straight from 1995 to 2000 and four straight from 1970 to 1973. BC matched its best streak in 2012 with three straight, which the Eagles had also done from 1963 to 1965.

The Eagles and Huskies come into the Beanpot championship game on different ends of the Hockey East landscape. BC is in first place with 25 points, while Northeastern is dead last with 11.

In the first round of the Beanpot, BC took down Harvard 4-1, while the Huskies shocked BU 3-2.

Stay here for all the action, and tune in to NESN for coverage starting at 7 p.m.

Photo via Facebook/Boston College Athletics/Northeastern Men’s Ice Hockey

For fans that can’t make it into the Garden to watch the first-round action in person, Bud Light will be hosting four viewing parties for fans to gather and watch great hockey at.

Join the Bud Light team at either The North Star, The Greatest Bar, Sports Grille Boston or Sullivan’s Tap in Boston on Monday, Feb. 11 at 5:30 p.m. to watch the Beanpot.

While there, fans have a chance to win tickets to the Beanpot and other greatprizes.

Must be 21 years or older.

Check out NESN.com’s live blog from the opening night of the 2013 Beanpot by clicking here >>

While Boston University has the most titles, Boston College has won the last three entering the 2013 tourney. Northeastern, which has the fewest Beanpot titles, has a chance to hoist its fifth Beanpot title on Monday night against BC.

Will the 2013 championship match be an instant classic? It would join a long list of amazing finishes, including Harvard topping BC in 1955, Northeastern ousting the Eagles in 1980, BC edging Harvard in 1994, the Terriers taking the Huskies in 2005 and BC herding the Huskies in 2011.

What’s the most memorable Beanpot finals finish of all time? Vote below, and don’t forget to tune in to NESN at 7 p.m. ET for Beanpot coverage.

Right from the outset the Huskies built a comfortable lead as a result of goals from sophomore forward Kendall Coyne and fourth-year forward Kasey Pickett. Coyne’s three goals were too much for the Terriers to handle as she captured her third hat trick in the past three games.

BU, who was shut down the whole game, got its only spark on the night when sophomore defensewoman Caroline Campbell connected with first-year forward Jordan Juron.

The Huskies will go head-to-head with No. 2 Boston College in the Beanpot championship Feb. 12 in Matthews Arena at 8 p.m.

Photo via Facebook/Northeastern Women’s Hockey

Harvard scored early in the third period, thanks to first-year forward Mary Parker‘s tremendous goal as the result of a great pass from teammate Gina McDonald.

However, the Eagles came through with a rally in the closing minutes of the third. Freshman forward Dana Trivigno and third-year forward Taylor Wasylk scored consecutive goals, giving BC the miracle win.

The Eagles will look for their second Beanpot crown in three years in next week’s final.

Photo via Twitter/RyanGStone

If it’s February in Boston, that means it’s Beanpot time.

The Women’s Beanpot is set to get underway on Tuesday at Northeastern, and you’ll be able to follow all the action with NESN.com’s live streaming of the action.

The action gets underway at 5 p.m. when Boston College takes on Harvard. That’s followed up by Boston University-Northeastern, which is slated to begin at 8 p.m.

Thumbnail photo via Facebook/Northeastern Women’s Ice Hockey

End of game, 4-1 BC: Boston College has won the Beanpot three years in a row, and anyone watching their effort in this one has to figure they’re poised to capture a fourth consecutive, and 18th overall.

In next week’s championship game, BC will take on Northeastern, which beat Boston University 3-2 earlier in the day.

So, thanks for sticking with us on this Monday, and we’ll be back next week to live blog the rest of the Beanpot.

Third period, 4:54, 4-1 BC: That was an absolutely wicked wrist shot from Steven Whitney, who uses the Harvard defender as a screen before beating Girard.

So, with just five minutes left, Harvard’s chances are on life support, and BC looks like the power team they’re supposed to be despite their recent troubles.

Third period, 9:43, 3-1 BC: After having some difficulty getting pucks to the BC net, captain Danny Biega puts Harvard on the board. It’s Biega’s first goal of the season.

The goal cuts BC’s lead, and if Harvard can add another one in relatively short order we could have a hockey game.

Third period, 12:16, 3-0 BC: If not for Raphael Girard, this game would be even more of a blowout.

Girard’s made a number of solid saves against the BC offense to keep Harvard even as close as three goals. Moreover, he’s done well in terms of rebound control, either holding onto the puck or steering it into the corners.

End of second period, 3-0 BC: If you’re going to win hockey games, these are the types of goals you just can’t let in. Sloppy defense in front of the Harvard net allowed Quinn Smith to knock in his second tally of the game and defenseman Michael Matheson sent a slap shot from the top of the right circle past Girard for what could prove to be the nail in the coffin. Again, the Crimson allow a solid period of hockey slip away at the end.

Second period, 4:23, 1-0 BC: Harvard has played tough and physical in the defensive end, but the Crimson offense has not been able to find any sort of momentum. Eagles goalie Parker Milner has hardly been tested, needing to make just 13 saves so far. Girard has more than double that on the other end, turning away 27 of the first 28 BC shots.

Second period, 12:00, 1-0 BC: Patrick Wey (not to be confused with former NHL goalie Patrick Roy) is whistled for interference and the Crimson will go on the power play. That may not be a very uplifting thought for Harvard fans, however, as their team’s extra-skater unit makes the Bruins’ power play look like a well-oiled machine. The Crimson have converted on just 9.9 percent of their power-play opportunities, good for dead last in the ECAC.

This comes just one year after Harvard’s power-play unit operated at an outstanding 27.0 percent efficiency, leading the nation in the category.

Second period, 14:11, 1-0 BC: Another huge stop by Girard, who denies Pat Mullane from point-blank range with a kick save. The junior has taken at least a pair of would-be goals away from the Eagles thus far.

Second period, 17:31, 1-0 BC: The puck has been living at Harvard’s doorstep, it seems, as every Crimson clear is taken right back down by BC’s forwards. Harvard’s blueliners have been game so far, but they are getting worked very hard. How their stamina holds up may be a key to the rest of this game.

End of first period, 1-0 BC: Girard withstood the Eagles’ onslaught during the power play, but could not escape the first period unscathed. BC’s Quinn Smith slapped in a rebound with just over 20 seconds remaining to give his team a 1-0 lead heading into the locker room.

Tough way to end the frame for the Crimson, but they are playing much better hockey than their 5-14-1 record would indicate, keeping up even as BC’s offense started clicking on all cylinders late in the period. A quick Eagles goal in the second could change that in a hurry, though.

First period, 3:13, 0-0: Brendan Rempel plants Bill Arnold to the ice, but the referees spotted a bit extra in Rempel’s hit and BC will have the game’s first power play.

First period, 5:50, 0-0: Girard foils BC’s first serious chance of the game and is seriously fired up about it. Harvard responded by taking the puck right down for a scoring chance of its own, but a rocket from senior Luke Greiner rang off the inside of the left post. Still scoreless at the Garden.

First period, 13:07, 0-0: This first period has been swift and physical, with few whistles and heavy checking provided by both sides. BC has yet to test the junior Girard, who is in his second year as the Crimson’s starter between the pipes.

Harvard will need to stiffen defensively if they are to have a chance against the Eagles. The Crimson have dropped 11 of their last 12 games, allowing 3.92 goals per contest over that span.

Start of first period, Boston College-Harvard: BC and Harvard take the ice for the nightcap, with Parker Milner starting in goal for the Eagles and Raphael Girard backstopping the Crimson. The boys from Cambridge are the last team other than BC or BU to take home a Beanpot title, but that was way back in 1993. We’ll see if they can work some magic against coach Jerry York’s No. 5 Eagles tonight.

Final, 3-2 Northeastern: The clock hits triple zeros and the Huskies will play for the the Beanpot championship. The win marks Northeastern’s first win over BU in this tournament since the 1988 title game, which gave the Huskies their most recent Beanpot championship. They’ll look to break that streak, as well, next Monday against the winner of tonight’s Boston College-Harvard semifinal.

Third period, 1:11, 3-2 Northeastern: And just as I say that, BU pulls within one. With O’Connor on the bench, Sahir Gill sent a rebound past Rawlings to cut the deficit to 3-2. This game is not over yet.

Third period, 2:00, 3-1 Northeastern: Terrific defense being played in the Northeastern end. Rawlings has been a rock in net but his teammates have given him tremendous help in front, continuously disrupting the rhythm of the Terriers with great stick movement and body checking.

Third period, 4:38, 3-1 Northeastern: Kevin Roy strikes again. The freshman phenom continued his stellar effort with his third goal of the contest, giving the Huskies a two-goal lead with just over four minutes remaining.

A Josh Manson slap shot from the blue line was deflected into the pads of O’Connor by Garrett Vermeersch, but the BU goalie couldn’t corral the puck and Roy pounded home the off-angle shot for his first career hat trick.

Third period, 7:54, 2-1 Northeastern: It seems that this entire period has been played in the Northeastern zone, as BU owns a 10-5 shot advantage in the frame, including a couple of rockets from the slot that Rawlings turned aside.

Third period, 12:32, 2-1 Northeastern: You can sense the urgency on the ice right now, as both teams come up with solid scoring chances. Rawlings and O’Connor have held strong, though, keeping the third period scoreless thus far.

Start of third period, 2-1 Northeastern: Just 20 minutes separate one of these squads from next Monday’s Beanpot championship. A key for Jack Parker’s squad will be capitalizing on power-play opportunities, as the Terriers have been unsuccessful on all six of their extra-skater chances tonight.

Second Period, 3:15, 2-1 Northeastern: Roy hasn’t looked as quite as dangerous as O’Regan, but he created his own opportunity there on an unassisted lead, giving Northeastern the 2-1 edge.

Boston University has looked to be the better team overall in terms of puck possession, but Northeastern’s been far more opportunistic.

Second period, 7:35, 1-1: Nothing doing for BU there on the power play, as they couldn’t even really get set up in the offensive zone.

Though BU’s had the better of puck possession tonight, Northeastern’s been opportunistic. In fact, Colton Saucerman (what a great name) nearly put a nifty move on the BU defense for a shorthanded bid.

Second period, 9:47, 1-1: BU looked dangerous in a power-play opportunity, nearly slotting a goal home as the penalty expired. going the other way, Northeastern’s Braden Primm just roped a BU player going back into the defensive zone, and so he gets two minutes for hooking.

On another note, O’Regan continues to look dangerous. Every time BU takes the puck into the offensive zone, O’Regan just gravitates towards the net.

Second period, 16:16, 1-1: Both squads trade a couple of Grade A scoring opportunities. First, Northeastern gets a clear-cut two-on-one opportunity, but credit BU defenseman Alexx Privitera with sliding to break up the feeding pass.

Going the other way, O’Regan is just a force to be reckoned in this one. Once again he finds himself in front of the goal on the receiving end of a pass. He couldn’t quite tip it on net, though, as a Northeastern defenseman got just enough stick on it.

End of first period, 1-1: BU’s thought process in the offensive zone isn’t difficult to determine. They try to control the puck back at the points or above the circles, have one guy break towards the front of the net to look for a rebound or a tip.

Going into the end of the period, BU got a couple more swipes at Rawlings and the Northeastern goal, but were kept off the score sheet. O’Regan, in particular, nearly got on the end of another pass right outside of the crease.

So, we go to the first intermission tied at one, with Northeastern putting up quite a fight despite their place in the Hockey East standings.

First period, 10:05, 1-1: Northeastern netminder Chris Rawlings makes a few sprawling saves to foil a BU scoring chance. Rawlings, who is listed at 6-foot-5, is starting his 115th game in net for the Huskies, having served as the team’s starter since his freshman season in 2009-10.

First period, 14:07, 1-1: Danny O’Regan isn’t about to let Roy steal the spotlight. The San Jose draftee — who ranks second to Roy in scoring among HE freshmen — completes a nifty give-and-go to knot the game at one goal apiece less than six minutes in. We may have a high-scoring affair on our hands.

First period, 17:51, 1-0 Northeastern: We are barely under way at the Garden and freshman sensation Kevin Roy has already given the Huskies a 1-0 lead. Roy, the leading freshman scorer in the nation, beat BU’s Matt O’Connor for his 13th goal of the season.

8 a.m. ET: It’s the first Monday of February, and Boston knows it’s time for the Beanpot.

This year’s tournament will mark the 61st time that the four Boston-area colleges have met on the ice for bragging rights, beginning all the way back in 1952. Now, of course, the first two Mondays in February are reserved for the Beanpot, with all but the inaugural event taking place at an arena named “Garden.”

For the last three years the Boston College eagles have won the tournament, so that means they’re the top dog going in. That’s also kind of true of Hockey East in general, as the Eagles have been the top team in conference play, earning 25 points. However, they’re also second to New Hampshire, who has one more win, in NCAA competition.

That only means everyone else will be gunning for Jerry York’s crew, and Jack Parker and the Boston University Terriers are certainly one of those teams. BU opens the tournament against Northeastern, and while the Terriers have remained in the high-middle of the pack on Hockey East, Northeastern is dead last in the conference with a mark of 4-11-3 (7-13-3 overall).

So, follow along here for all of today’s Beanpot action. The first game between BU and Northeastern begins at 5 p.m. ET.

Photo via Twitter/@BCHockey

For fans that can’t make it into the Garden to watch the first-round action in person, Bud Light will be hosting four viewing parties for fans to gather at and watch great hockey.

Join the Bud Light team at either The North Star, Hurricane O’Reilly’s, Grand Canal or McGann’s in Boston on Monday, Feb. 4 at 5:30 p.m. to watch the Beanpot. While there, fans have a chance to win tickets to the Beanpot and other great Prizes.

Must be 21 years or older.

Starting at 6 p.m. ET at Roggie’s, fans will have the chance to win tickets and other great prizes from Bud Light. Fans can then watch the B’s battle the Islanders on one of the 18-plus flat-screen TVs. Bud Light, which presents NESN’s coverage of the 2013 Beanpot tournament, will be giving away tickets to the annual college hockey tournament.

Roggie’s has been highly regarded as a must-visit sports bar in Cleveland Circle. With TVs as far as the eye can see, breakfast served all day and one of the most extensive food menus in the Boston area, Roggie’s offers it all.

“Come see why Roggie’s is a staple of Boston and experience the best bar menu and sports bar in the Hub.”– Roggies.com

Must be 21 or over to participate. 

While the Patriots came up short in the Super Bowl, the Celtics fell to the Heat in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals and the Bruins suffered a Game 7 playoff defeat of their own, there are some other games that New Englanders will remember more fondly.

For instance, the Patriots’ AFC Championship victory to get to Super Bowl XLVI came in dramatic fashion. The Ravens forced the Patriots, who were leading 23-20, to punt the ball away with 1:44 left in the game. Quarterback Joe Flacco then effectively marched the Ravens down the field, although two huge pass deflections by Sterling Moore, including a big play to break up a pass intended for tight end Dennis Pitta on third down, helped keep Baltimore out of the end zone.

The play everyone will forever remember, though, came on fourth down. Billy Cundiff had a chance to kick a 32-yard field goal to tie the game, but he missed the chip shot wide left, sending the Pats to the Super Bowl for the fifth time in the Tom Brady/Bill Belichick era.

The Celtics also gave us a memorable game in their conference championship. With the series tied 2-2, the Celtics prevailed in Game 5 in Miami. Kevin Garnett recorded 26 points and 11 rebounds as the C’s scooped up the 94-90 win, which gave the Celtics a 3-2 edge as they headed back to Boston.

The big moment in that game, though, came when Paul Pierce dropped in a 3-pointer over LeBron James with 53 seconds left. In fact, Boston had fallen behind by 13 in the second quarter and by nine in the third quarter, before finishing the game on a 22-12 run. The Heat would eventually take the series, but that Game 5 victory — at least temporarily — gave Celtics fans hope.

The Bruins faced a tough task during the 2011-12 season. They went from being the hunters to being the hunted after hoisting Lord Stanley the season before. And while the postseason didn’t exactly go smoothly for the Bruins, with the Washington Capitals proving to be a worthy adversary, Boston’s division-clinching victory over the Rangers was still a memorable night.

Dennis Seidenberg and Patrice Bergeron each netted second-period goals, and Tim Thomas held off a relentless barrage by the Rangers as the Bruins won 2-1 on April 1 at Madison Square Garden. The game further showed that these two teams could be beasts of the East for years to come.

The Red Sox — unlike the B’s, C’s and Pats — didn’t have an opportunity to enjoy any postseason success, as 2012 was a dismal year. But while the Sox stumbled out of the gate and finished the season 69-93, there was at least a glimmer of hope for one night during the summer.

Cody Ross, who became a fan favorite during his one year with the Red Sox, cranked a three-run shot into the Boston night against the White Sox on July 19. The walk-off blast in the bottom of the ninth marked Ross’ second three-run homer in two nights, and it came at a time when the Red Sox were starting the second half on a good note. Unfortunately for Boston, things didn’t continue to go smoothly. However, that one night temporarily gave Red Sox fans a reason to believe, and it was — at the time — dubbed by many to be the night the 2012 Red Sox became “a team.”

Beyond the four professional teams, Boston also has the privilege of being home to some impressive college programs. Boston College and Boston University, for example, comprise college hockey’s most heated rivalry, with the annual Beanpot serving as the stage for some of the teams’ more memorable clashes.

This year was no different, as Boston College once again ousted Boston University in the tournament finals. BC’s Bill Arnold netted an overtime game-winner with just seconds left in the first overtime to give the Eagles their third consecutive title. The goal came after a feisty BU bunch bounced back from two one-goal deficits.

Each of these games was memorable in its own right, but which one owns a special place in your heart?

Final, UMass 4-1: UMass will face Harvard in the Championship Game next week on Wednesday, April 18.

A strong performance from Conor LeBlanc with 7 2/3 innings on one-run ball.

Nik Campero hit his first career home run in the game and drove in two to lead the Minutemen.

End 8th, UMass 4-1: Sam Berg was able to keep UMass off the scoreboard.

After striking out Rob McLam looking, Anthony Serino reached on a hit and made it to third on a wild pitch.

Berg struck out Tom Conley looking and Adam Picard flew out to center to end the inning.

Mid 8th, UMass 4-1: Conor LeBlanc put together a great outing. He went 7 2/3 innings and allowed three hits and struck out one.

After a leadoff single for Pete Castoldi, Connor Lyons grounded into the 6-4-3 double play.

LeBlanc was pulled after walking Aaron Barbosa. Ryan Lubreski got John Puttress to flyout to center on two pitches to end the inning.

End 7th, UMass 4-1: Another solid inning for Matt Cook.

Nick Sanford flew out to right to start the inning. Rich Graef strikes out for the second out. Ryan Cusick grounded up the middle, where the pitcher touched it, and the shortstop threw him out at first.

Mid 7th, Umass 4-1: Conor LeBlanc retired the side in order in the seventh.

Jason Vosler hit a fly ball to right for an out. Oliver Hart and Tucker Roeder grounded out to second and third, respectively.

End 6th, Umass 4-1: UMass tacks on another run with a one-out single from Adam Picard with runners on first and third.

Rob McLam flew out to center to start the inning. Matt Cook then walked Anthony Serino and Tom Conley. While Conley was at the plate, Serino stole second and reached third on a wild pitch.

After the hit, Cook settled down to strike out Nik Campero and get Dylan Begin to hit a griundball to short.

Mid 6th, UMass 3-1: Conor LeBlanc worked around a walk and a hit batter to avoid a big inning.

Connor Lyons lined out to second to start the inning. Aaron Barbosa walked and then John Puttress flew out to left.

After hitting Matt Miller, LeBlanc got Jon Leroux to pop out to second.

End 5th, UMass 3-1: Matt Cook settled down this half inning.

He forced Nick Sanford and Rich Graef to ground out to short. Ryan Cusick grounded to third to end the inning.

Mid 5th, UMass 3-1: An easy 1-2-3 inning for Conor LeBlanc. Oviler Hart grounded to second for the first out. Then, Tucker Roeder popped out to first and Pete Castoldi flew out to center.

End 4th, UMass 3-1: Nik Campero hit a two-run shot over the right field fence.

Anthony Serino grounded out to short to start the inning. Tom Conley walked and stole second.

After Adam Picard flew out to right, Campero hit his home run. Dylan Begin hit a groundball to the shortstop to end the inning.

The homer was the second of the season for the Minutemen.

Mid 4th, 1-1: 1-2-3 go the Huskies in the top of the fourth.

Matt Miller grounded out to first. Jon Leroux then lined out to third. Jason Vosler strikes out to end the inning.

End 3rd, 1-1: A quick 1-2-3 inning for Matt Cook. Rich Graef stuck out to lead off the inning. Then Ryan Cusick grounded out to third and Rob McLam lined out to second.

Mid 3rd, 1-1: Conor LeBlanc got out of a jam in the top of the third.

With runners on first and second, Aaron Barbosa flew out to left and then John Puttress grounded into the 1-6-3 double play.

End 2nd, 1-1: Dylan Begin grounded into a fielder's choice with runners at first and third to tie the game 1-1.

Tom Conley walked to start the inning. Then, Adam Picard hit a single to right field. WIth the runners on first and second, Nik Campero struck out looking. During his at-bat, Conley reached third on an error by the shortstop with a missed tag on a stolen base attempt.

Nick Sanford hit a ground ball to second to end the inning.

Mid 2nd, Northeastern 1-0: The Huskies get on the board first thanks to an RBI double from Jason Vosler.

After a leadoff walk to Jon Leroux, Vosler ripped a ball down the right-field line to score Leroux from first.

After Oliver Hart grounded out to short, Vosler was caught stealing third. Tucker Roeder struck out swinging to end the inning.

End 1st, 0-0: A 1-2-3 inning for Matt Cook in the bottom half of the inning.

After getting Ryan Cusick to fly out to right, he walked Rob McLam, who got caught stealing second.

Anthony Serino grounded to the shortstop to end the inning.

Mid 1st, 0-0: A solid start for Conor LeBlanc.

LeBlanc retired the Northeastern hitters in order in the top of the first. Aaron Barbosa  popped out to short and John Puttress popped out to right field where the second baseman made the grab in foul ground. Matt Miller ended the inning with a ground out to the second baseman.

6:10 p.m. ET: The Huskies are on a seven-game losing streak, and they look to end UMass's three-game winning streak with their powerful lineup.They have totaled 69 extra-base hits in their 26 games.

Rob Fonseca is on the bench to start, even though he is tied with the team lead with five home runs.

Jason Volser will need to do everything he can for Northeastern in today's second game at LeLacheur Park.

First pitch is set for 6:15 p.m. ET.

6:00 p.m. ET: Here are the lineups for Notheastern vs. UMass in Game 2 of today's Beanpot action.

Northeastern

Aaron Barbosa, RF
John Puttress, DH
Matt Miller, LF
Jon Leroux, C
Jason Vosler, 2B
Oliver Hart, SS
Tucker Roeder, 1B
Pete Castoldi, 3B
Connor Lyons, CF

Matt Cook, P

UMass

Ryan Cusick, 2B
Rob McLam, DH
Anthony Serino, CF
Tom Conley, C
Adam Picard, RF
Nik Campero, 3B
Dylan Begin, 1B
Nick Sanford, SS
Rich Graef, LF

Conor LeBlanc, P

Final Game 1, Harvard 5-2: BC rallied in the ninth and had the bases loaded with one out, but both Tom Bourdon and Blake Butera struck out looking to end the game.

Eric Stone (0-1) gets the loss. Matt Timoney (1-0) earns the win. Zach Olson closes the game for the save.

Spenser Payne popped out to short to start the inning, but Matt Pare walked and Andrew Lawrence and pinch hitter Marc Perdios got back-to-back singles to load the bases.

Andrew Ferreira struck out Bourdon and Olson strikes out Butera to end the game.

Butera's 13-game hitting streak comes to and end, as well as Rob Moir's 11-game hit streak.

Mid 9th, Harvard 5-2: Another two-out hit makes it 5-2 for the Crimson.

Ethan Ferreira grounded out to third to start the inning. Jake McGuiggan hit a shot to third and made it safely to first for the single.

After Geoffrey Murphy retired Mike Martin on a fly out to right field in foul ground, McGuiggan stole second and, on the very nexy pitch, Kyle Larrow drove him in on a RBI single.

Larrow was then picked off at first to end the inning. Now on to the bottom of the ninth!

End 8th, Harvard 4-2: Matt Timoney is done after 7 1/3 innings of two-run ball.

After getting Blake Butera to ground out to first, Matt McGovern got a base hit that ended the great start for Timony.

Matt Doyle got the final two outs of the inning. Anthony Melchiando flies out to right and Rob Moir grounded out to second to end the inning

Mid 8th, Harvard 4-2: Another leadoff double wasted for Harvard.

Nick Saathoff hit a double on a 1-1 fastball that almost went out of the ballpark in right.

Carlton Bailey ran for him and advanced to third on a wild pitch after Jeff Reynolds flew out to center.

Jack Colton struck out looking and Steve Dill flew out to right to end the inning.

End 7th, Harvard 4-2: A solid performance from Matt Timoney. He has thrown 94 pitches and retired all three batters he faced in the seventh.

Andrew Lawrence popped out to third in foul territory. John Hennessy grounded up the middle to short. Tom Bourdon ended the inning with a well-placed bunt, but Timony threw him out at first.

Mid 7th, Harvard 4-2: A solid inning of work from Kyle Prohovich. He retired all three batters he faced.

First, Mike Martin strikes out looking. Then, he forced Kyle Larrow and Jon Smart to ground out to second and short, respectively.

End 6th, Harvard 4-2: Anthony Melchiando led off with a single, but some bad baserunning allowed a popout to short to turn into a double play, as Melchiando was thrown out at first.

Spenser Payne worked a nine-pitch walk, but Matt Pare struck out swinging to end the inning.

Mid 6th, Harvard 4-2: A two-out RBI single for Ethan Ferreira gives Harvard the 4-2 lead in the sixth.

Nick Saathoof hit a single to begin the inning.

After a flyout to center and strikeout for Jake Colton, Steve Dill walked and Ferreira lined a single to right. The catcher could not handle the throw from the right fielder, which allowed Saathoof to score.

Jake McGuiggan was retired for the first time today on a flyball to right. He is now 3-4.

End 5th, Harvard 3-2: Tom Bourdon hit a rocket off the right field wall with one out to score Andrew Lawrence. The RBI double cut the lead to 3-2.

Lawrence led off the inning with a single and then stole second with Bourdon batting, after John Hennessy struck out.

Blake Butera and and Matt McGovern flew out to right and center, respectively, that left Bourdon at third.

Mid 5th, Harvard 3-1: A leadoff double for Jake McGuiggan was not put to good use for Harvard.

Mike Matin lined out to the shortstop for the first out of the inning.

Kyle Larrow hit a single to shallow left and McGuiggan could not score. Jon Smart then grounded into the 6-4-3 double play to end the inning.

End 4th, Harvard 3-1: The BC hitters went down 1-2-3.

Rob Moir grounded out to second. Spenser Payne flew out to left. Matt Pare popped out in foul ground to the first baseman.

Mid 4th, Harvard 3-1: Jeff Reynolds reached on an error by the second baseman Blake Butera, but John Gorman settled down to retire the next three Harvard hitters.

Jack Colton moved the runner to second with a sacrifice bunt, Steve Dill flew out to right and Ethan Ferreira struck out looking to end the inning.

End 3rd, Harvard 3-1: An error from Ethan Ferreira allowed John Hennessy to score from first for the only run of the game so far for BC.

After Andrew Lawrence ground out to second, Hennessy and Tom Bourdon hit consecutive singles, but Ferreira butchered the single to right that allowed Hennessy to score from first.

With Bourdon on third, Blake Butera failed a safety squeeze. After a full count walk to Matt McGovern, Anthony Melchiando lined out to center to end the rally.

Mid 3rd, Harvard 3-0: An error cost the Eagles in the inning.

Jake McGuiggan continued his hot streak as he led off the inning with a single. He is now 2-for-2 on the afternoon. Mike Martin reached on an errant throw from the pitcher after laying a sacrifice bunt down and runners were safe on first and second with nobody out.

Kyle Larrow got the runners to second and third with a successful sacrifice to first. Jon Smart drove in the lone run in the inning with a sacrifice fly to right.

Nick Saathoff took a called third strike to end the inning.

End 2nd, Harvard 2-0: Rob Moir flew out for the first out of the inning, but Anthony Melchiado took off early from first and was called out for the double play. Melchiado led off the inning by getting hit by a pitch.

Spenser Payne then hit a double to right before Matt Pare flew out to left for the final out to end the inning.

Mid 2nd, Harvard 2-0: Another scoring chance for Harvard, but Ethan Ferreira struck out with the bases loaded to end the top half of the second.

Jon Smart flew out to right to leadoff the inning. After back-to-back singles from Nick Saathoff and Jeff Reynolds, Jack Colton grounded into a fielder's choice to shortstop as Saathoff was thrown out at third.

Steve Dill was then hit by a pitch before Ferreira struck out.

End 1st, Harvard 2-0: Tom Bourdon leads off the bottom of the inning with a single to right.

Blake Butera flew out to center. And then Bourdon was caught stealing second base by a few feet. Matt McGovern struck out swinging on three pitches to end the inning.

Mid 1st, Harvard 2-0: Jake McGuiggan drove in two runs on a single to left with two outs in the first inning.

After a leadoff infield single for Jeff Reynolds, Jack Colton got aboard with a hard hit single to left field.

Ethan Ferreira lined out to third and Steve Dill was caught off the first-base bag for the first two outs of the game.

Mike Martin hit a single that the third baseman could not handle. Kyle Larrow grounded out to second to end the inning.

2:15 p.m. ET: The lineups have finally been announced.

Harvard

Jeff Reynolds 2B
Jack Colton LF
Steve Dill 1B
Ethan Ferreira RF
Jake McGuiggan SS
Mike Martin CF
Kyle Larrow 3B
Jon Smart C
Nick Saathoff DH

Matt Timoney P

Boston College

Tom Bourdon CF
Blake Butera 2B
Matt McGovern RF
Anthony Melchionda SS
Rob Moir DH
Spenser Payne 1B
Matt Pare C
Andrew Lawrence LF
John Hennessy 3B

Eric Stowe P

1 p.m. ET: The Boston College Eagles (13-19, 4-11 ACC) will look to defeat a Harvard Crimson (5-22, 2-6 IVY) team that won 5-3 against them back on Wednesday, April 4. Jacob Kremers (1-1) got the win with two shutout innings of work. Both teams are on losing streaks — four for BC and three for Harvard — and one team needs the win for the push in the right direction.

Harvard broke out their bats in the bottom of the third inning with three runs on two hits last Wednesday. Steve Green (0-4) walked the first two batters in the inning before the Crimson scored their three runs on a groundout and a base hit from Steven Dill.

In this matchup, look for Anthony Melchionda and Tom Bourdon to get the big hits for BC. They have combined for 10 home runs and 41 RBIs. Harvard has no batter who has more than two homers, so expect to see a lot of small ball with the Crimson throughout the game.

Make sure to check back to NESN.com for live updates throughout the ball game. First pitch is at 2:30 p.m. ET.

Photo via Northeastern Baseball

Boston University has historically dominated the Beanpot, but Boston College has enjoyed recent success, winning three straight titles.

This year's final, during which BC pulled out an overtime win over BU, was one of the more thrilling in recent memory. It was likely even more special for the team's seniors, including defenseman Tommy Cross, who has become a leader since arriving at Chestnut Hill.

Cross' teammates spoke glowingly of his leadership ability prior to the Beanpot final, stressing that they've known since his first season that he would ultimately become the team's captain.

To hear more, and to hear some of the players mic'd up for this year's Beanpot final, check out the video above.

Many Boston College hockey players will tell you that the Beanpot is one of the most exciting times of the year. In fact, a number of the players have compared Beanpot Monday to Christmas morning.

But even though it's hard to focus on anything else when the annual tournament arrives, the Eagles still know that you can't let emotions get the best of you. They admit that's easier said than done, but if emotions aren't kept in check, it could have adverse effects once the puck is dropped.

To hear more, check out the video above, which includes footage of NESN's day with the BC hockey team in advance of this year's Beanpot final.

Tommy Cross and the Boston College Eagles put a lot of hard work and effort into their game preparations. And when it comes to the Beanpot, their attention to detail is even greater.

NESN followed Cross and some of the hockey team's other players around on the day of the Beanpot final to see what a day in their life is like. It's clear that their schedules are jam-packed given the number of obligations they each have between school and hockey.

The players do manage to find some time to have a little fun, though, which they usually do together. For an inside look at BC's Beanpot preparations, and a glimpse at a typical day for the players, check out the video above.

Boston College defenseman Tommy Cross, a 2007 draft pick of the Bruins, could go on to play in even bigger games in Boston during his hockey career. But the Beanpot is still a special event, and it doesn't get much bigger in terms of college hockey.

Cross gave NESN an inside look at his Beanpot preparations and explained what he usually does on game days. From his morning omelette to attending class to calling his mother, NESN's cameras followed Cross around for the entire day leading up to the 60th Beanpot, which BC eventually won in thrilling fashion.

Check out the video above to see all of Cross' morning/afternoon game-day activities.

Boston College coach Jerry York posted his 900th coaching victory, marking yet another milestone in the legendary coach's career.

NESN took a behind-the-scenes look at the Eagles' experience at the 60th Beanpot, where BC claimed the trophy with a 3-2 win over Boston University.

Boston College celebrated another Beanpot championship on Monday night, the Eagles’ third straight and 17th title in the 60 year history of the Boston area tournament.

The game may have been decided on the ice but the entire day leading up to Monday night’s finale is an event in and of itself for coaches, players and fans. NESN caught all of the action on game day from inside the dressing room out to Bill Arnold‘s overtime winner for BC.

Beanpot All-Access Game Day will air at 10:30 p.m. on Saturday night, offering fans a sneak peak inside the entire tournament, including an inside look at BC senior captain Tommy Cross on the day of the championship.

NESN’s camera crew was given complete access to Cross and the rest of the Eagles on game day, and the result is captured in the 30 minute Beanpot special.

So, tune into NESN on Saturday night to get a unique look at the 60th Annual Beanpot tournament.

Check out the video above for a sneak peak into the all-access special.

Jack Parker or Jerry York?

You certainly can't go wrong with either head coach, but if both were to make the leap to the NHL level, would you prefer the longtime BU leader or the man behind the BC bench?

That's one of the questions NESN.com's Ben Barker set out to have answered during Monday's BU-BC Beanpot final. He also asked fans what they think of the consolation game, and where the tournament stands in terms of sports' overall big picture.

Check out the video above to hear what fans had to say.

Boston University and Boston College entered Monday's Beanpot final ranked No. 2 and No. 3 in the nation, respectively. But even their jockeying in the national rankings this season doesn't hold a candle to the excitement we're typically exposed to when these two teams meet up in the annual tournament.

Prior to Monday night's championship showdown, each of the last eight head-to-head Beanpot matchups between BU and BC were decided by one goal, with four of those contests needing more than 60 minutes to settle. Of those eight games, five came with the Beanpot title on the line.

But one could argue that Monday's see-saw battle, from which Boston College emerged victorious, was the best of them all. After all, it met all of the above criteria.

"BU played an outstanding hockey game," BC head coach Jerry York said after the win. "I thought we came right back with the same attitude to our team, so that was college hockey at its finest. We're both ranked in the top five in the country, so we kind of expect that. And then with the rivalry between the two schools, it had all the makings of a classic college hockey game and it unfolded just like that."

A classic indeed.

The game's first tally came after BC saw freshman Quinn Smith get sent off for boarding at 7:38 of the first period. But just as they did last week, the Eagles showed they can still be dangerous when playing a man down, as Pat Mullane got BC on the board with Smith still in the box.

The two teams then traded power-play goals in the second period before Garrett Noonan's second goal of the night (11th of the season) pulled the Terriers even with just 13 minutes left in regulation.

With neither team able to capitalize down the stretch, the game required an extra period, and looked poised for a second overtime.

Bill Arnold had other plans.

The sophomore took a feed from junior Steven Whitney, and ripped a wrist shot past BU goaltender Kieran Millan for the game-winner, handing Boston College its third straight Beanpot title.

"I'm in the clouds right now," Arnold said of his title-clinching goal. "You dream about this as a kid and you never really expect it to happen, so this is unbelievable."

A native of Needham, Mass., Arnold grew up watching the Beanpot and rooting for BC, so he firmly understands the importance of the annual tournament in the Boston-area. And while the event will always remain popular locally, Monday's Garden thriller served as the latest example of just how competitive the tournament remains, and how it's possible for the tourney to still reach new heights even though it just blew out its 60th birthday candle.

"Over the last few years, people have talked about, 'Has the Beanpot kind of lost its luster?' 'How are the crowds?' and 'Where is college hockey in the Boston area?' Well tonight was a statement," York said. "That place was jammed with fans of college hockey, whether they're associated with BU or BC or Harvard or Northeastern, I think the Beanpot's in good hands. It has been for a long time, and it's going to continue, especially with that type of hockey game tonight."

York may not have been referring directly to BC when he said the Beanpot is in good hands, but his team's fingerprints are the only ones to be all over it for three straight years. BC's six seniors haven't lost a Beanpot game since their first, when the Eagles fell to Northeastern, 6-1, in the first round in 2009.

Defenseman Tommy Cross, one of those six seniors and a 2007 draft pick of the Boston Bruins, is relishing the success. But he isn't ready to discredit anything any of the other three participating schools bring to the table annually.

"I don't know if it's that BC is taking over the Beanpot. I don't think that's the case," Cross said. "Last year was overtime, this year was overtime. I think it just speaks to the level of play of the four schools in Boston. Every game's tough, whether it's the first round or whether it's the finals. BU's got a great hockey team, BC's got a great hockey team. The level of play, certainly this year, it gets better every year. It speaks to our program, but also the other programs in the Beanpot."

Next season, BC will look to become the first school to win four Beanpot titles in a row since BU won six in a row from 1995 to 2000.

If the recent trend holds true, it won't be easy. Then again, is it ever? The level of competitiveness is what allows the Beanpot to maintain its luster after all these years. It's not simply a matter of which hands the famous trophy ends up in. It's a matter of how it gets there.

And this year's incredible final, during which the trophy seemingly switched hands 10 different times in a one-hour period, shows why the event remains an intriguing one for even the most casual hockey fan.