UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, fifth-ranked Minnesota Duluth triumphed over Arizona State with a 3-1 victory at Amsoil Arena Friday evening. The Bulldogs improved their series opener record to 10-0 this season, showcasing resilience by successfully killing off a major penalty in the final minutes.
Leading the charge for the Bulldogs was Max Plante, the nation’s leading scorer, along with Kyle Gaffney and Daniel Shlaine, who each netted goals. The Bulldogs now hold an overall record of 14-5 and 7-3 in the NCHC.
Bulldogs sophomore goaltender Adam Gajan was stellar in net, making 16 saves and limiting the Sun Devils to just 17 shots on goal. Despite being granted a five-minute power play, Arizona State could only manage five shots in the third period.
The game featured a significant moment when ASU’s junior captain Kyle Smolen left the ice after a hard hit from Bulldogs defenseman Adam Kleber. The hit resulted in a major interference penalty against Kleber, providing ASU with a crucial power play opportunity. However, the Bulldogs’ defense held strong, even scoring an empty-net goal from Shlaine as time expired on Kleber’s penalty, sealing the win.
Notably, Friday marked Scott Sandelin’s 1,000th game as head coach of the Bulldogs, making him the first in UMD history to reach this milestone and just the 27th coach in NCAA Division I men’s ice hockey to achieve this feat. He was honored in a special pre-game ceremony.
Gaffney, a senior transfer from Alaska, scored his first goal as a Bulldog, giving the team a 2-1 lead late in the second period after a perfect setup by freshman Hunter Anderson. Gaffney’s goal was a culmination of a line shuffle by Sandelin, aimed at boosting offensive production.
UMD’s power play continued to impress, as Plante scored on a familiar play, marking their fourth power play goal in the last five attempts. The Bulldogs are currently 6-for-10 on power plays in their last five games, showcasing their offensive prowess.
The Sun Devils initially took the lead 1-0 in the first period with a goal from Ty Nash, who capitalized on a 2-on-1 rush. However, UMD responded decisively, demonstrating their ability to bounce back under pressure.
Looking ahead, the Bulldogs will face Arizona State again on December 16, 2023, at 5 p.m. at Amsoil Arena before a two-week holiday break. Fans can expect another thrilling match as UMD aims to continue their winning streak.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Bulldogs chase victory in their final game before the holiday season!
