UND holds top scoring offense to 17 shots in 2-2 draw
The Broncos allowed just two even-strength shots against Western Michigan's No. 1 ranked attack in a series opener.
By Rafael Delgado ·
Western Michigan recorded just 17 shots on goal in Friday night's series opener against the University of North Dakota. That total stands as the lowest for the Fighting Hawks in nearly four years. The number marks a sharp drop from their previous low of 29 shots at Michigan earlier this season.
The defensive performance came after a rough stretch for UND. The Broncos had allowed 15 goals over their last three games. Coach Dane Jackson said the staff judges the performance rather than the final score. He praised the team's ability to manage the puck and check their opponents.
The game began quickly. Western Michigan's Adam Benák scored on the first shot of the contest. The goal came less than a minute after the faceoff. For the next 43 minutes and 43 seconds, UND recorded only five shots on goal. Of those, just two came at even strength.
UND built a lead in the first two periods. Forward Hudson Malinoski scored on the power play in the first period. Defenseman Brasen Boser added an even-strength goal in the second. The Broncos outplayed the Fighting Hawks in the middle frame. Western Michigan outshot UND 13-3 during that period.
The Fighting Hawks created three consecutive power play opportunities in the final 10 minutes and 33 seconds. They converted the second one. Ty Henricks tipped the puck in to tie the game with 4:38 remaining. Jackson noted the team had many chances to kill penalties but handled them well.
UND forward William Whitelaw did not record a point for the first time in eight games this season. He entered the game averaging two points per contest. The team's shooting woes persisted despite the defensive effort. Jackson said the group needs more poise in big moments to finish plays.
The game went to a shootout after regulation. Western Michigan won the extra point in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference standings. UND goaltender Jan Špunar made 15 saves. Western Michigan's Quentin Miller stopped 24 of 26 shots on goal.
Ollie Josephson, who had an assist for UND, called the result a step in the right direction. He said the team is happy with the performance and ready to adjust small details. Malinoski added that the team improves each game. He said if they play like Friday and avoid penalties, the results will follow.
The series finale is scheduled for 6:07 p.m. Saturday at Ralph Engelstad Arena. Jackson said the coaching staff believes in the character of the players. He stated that if the team does the daily tasks correctly, they will be one of the best teams by the end of the year.
