Pipers defeat St. John's in MIAC Playoffs

The Pipers (12-4-2) will face second-seeded Gustavus in the MIAC Finals for the right to play in the NCAA Tournament. It is the first time the Pipers will advance to the MIAC Finals.

Senior midfielder Steven Dupic scored the game's only goal for the Pipers at the 71:35 mark of the second half. It was Dupic's first goal of the season. He was assisted by the MIAC's leading scorer Jacob Helling and Jason Engedal.

St. John's (13-4-1) held a 21-8 advantage in shots for the contest and a 9-2 edge in shots on the goal.

Hamline goalkeeper Andrew Clement posted his seventh shutout of the season while making nine saves. He made four of his saves in the final 18:25 after Dupic scored the game-winner.

The Pipers were making their second consecutive appearance in the conference playoffs under head coach Andy Coutts. They avenged a 1-0 loss to the Johnnies in Collegeville during the regular season.

Hamline will play at Gustavus on Saturday. The championship game will start at 1:00 p.m.