Friday, January 16, 2015

Mavericks 2, Bulldogs 1

Freddy's three thoughts (from afar) ...

1. Handling it: The Mavericks survived their first test as a No. 1 team, going into hostile Ferris State and hanging on for a 2-1 WCHA victory. They outshot the Bulldogs 28-25 and committed just two penalties. "I thought the guys did a good job focusing on what they could control," coach Mike Hastings said in a phone interview after the game. "We had a good week of practice and a good Friday. We're going to have to be good tomorrow."

2. Casey comes back: Casey Nelson had a goal and an assist, playing a game Hastings described as "exceptional." Nelson had no points as week ago, getting an eight-game scoring streak stopped, but he was back on the board in a big game in a tough building to play in. Nelson had the second assist on Jordan Nelson's first-period goal. The first helper was the highlight, as Jon Jutzi rushed the puck down low and made a perfect pass across for Jordan to put in. Casey's goal, which made it 2-0 in the second period, was a shot from the point that hit traffic and found it's way in.

3. Willie stands tall: Stephon Williams got the start in goal and out-dueled C.J. Motte by allowing one goal, which made it 2-1 with 7:33 remaining in the game. Williams dived out to knock away the puck, but Kyle Schempp was able to keep it on his stick and get around the goalie for the score. Williams survived a late push by the Bulldogs, including a couple of nice chances in the final minute with Motte pulled for an extra attacker. Williams now has 13 wins.

For more on the game, go here.

Around the WCHA: Michigan Tech 4, Bowling Green 3 ... Lake Superior State 1, Bemidji State 0 ... Alabama Huntsville 2, Northern Michigan 1 ... Alaska Anchorage 2, Alaska 1

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