UMD mens hockey blanked by Denver 4-0 in game one of NCHC opening round

DULUTH, Minn. (Northern News Now) – The University of Minnesota Duluth mens hockey team got shutout 4-0 on Friday night by third-ranked Denver in the opening game of the NCHC tournament’s first round series.

The opening round of the conference tournament is a three-game series, so the Bulldogs must win the next two games against the Pioneers to continue their season.

The scoring got started halfway through the first period when Denver forward McKade Webster toe-dragged around the defender and sniped one past goaltender Matthew Thiessen for the opening goal.

Denver would extend their lead to 3-0 in the 2nd period behind back-to-back goals from Jack Devine, who leads the NCHC in goal scoring.

UMD was outshot 24-17 in the game and only had one shot on goal in the 2nd period. All of Denver’s goals were scored even strength, as both teams went 0 for 4 on the power play.

It would remain 3-0 deep into the third period until Denver’s Connor Caponi scored on the empty net to salt away the win 4-0.

Bulldogs goalie Matthew Thiessen made 20 saves in the loss, while Pioneers goalie Matt Davis had 17 saves for the shutout victory.

Both teams are back it for game two of this series on Saturday night. Puck drop is set for 6 p.m. and will be broadcast on the MY9 Sports Network.

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