UPDATE: The fifth-ranked Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs claimed a crucial 3-1 victory over the Arizona State Sun Devils in NCHC action at Amsoil Arena on Friday night. This win marks an impressive 10-0 record for the Bulldogs in series openers this season.
In a tense matchup, the Bulldogs showcased their resilience, especially during a critical penalty kill in the final six-plus minutes. Sophomore wing Max Plante, who leads the nation with 29 points, along with senior center Kyle Gaffney and freshman wing Daniel Shlaine, each contributed to the scoreboard, solidifying Duluth’s dominance.
Bulldogs goaltender Adam Gajan was pivotal, making 16 saves and limiting ASU to just 17 shots on goal. Despite a five-minute major power play, the Sun Devils only managed five shots in the third period. Connor Hasley, ASU’s senior goalie, made 36 saves in a valiant effort.
“We had to dig deep tonight, especially with the penalty kill late in the game,” said Bulldogs head coach Scott Sandelin, who celebrated his 1,000th game coaching the Bulldogs, making him the first in UMD history to reach this milestone.
Arizona State opened the scoring with a goal from sophomore wing Ty Nash, marking the Sun Devils’ early lead. However, the Bulldogs quickly rallied, with Gaffney netting his first goal of the season to put Duluth ahead 2-1 late in the second period.
In a dramatic moment, ASU’s junior captain Kyle Smolen was carried off the ice after a heavy hit from Bulldogs defenseman Adam Kleber, leading to a major penalty for Kleber and a power play opportunity for ASU. The Bulldogs successfully killed off the penalty and sealed their victory with an empty-net goal from Shlaine.
With this game, the Bulldogs continue to build on their momentum as they head into a crucial rematch against the Sun Devils at 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at Amsoil Arena. A win would further solidify their position in the NCHC standings before a two-week holiday break.
Stay tuned for live updates and highlights as the Bulldogs look to extend their winning streak and maintain their elite status in college hockey!
