Director of Hockey Operations | Northern Michigan University Athletics Website
Director of Hockey Operations | Northern Michigan University Athletics Website
The Northern Michigan University (NMU) Wildcats hockey team suffered a 3-2 defeat against the Lake Superior State University Lakers in game three of the Cappo Cup, held in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. The loss means the Cappo Cup remains with the Lakers for another year.
The Lakers established an early lead with two power-play goals within a minute and a half towards the end of the first period. The Wildcats quickly responded with two goals of their own in the second period, leveling the score before heading into the final frame. However, a single goal from the Lakers in the third period sealed NMU's fate.
Grayden Slipec led NMU's scoring efforts by securing his seventh goal of the season, which places him at the top among Wildcats' goal scorers. Jesse Tucker also scored, marking his second tally of the season. Contributions also came from Grayden Daul, who recorded his first collegiate point, Tanner Latsch, and Anthony Cliche, who both assisted on goals.
Wildcats' goalie Ryan Ouellette made 34 saves during the match, achieving a .919 save percentage and conceding only one five-on-five goal. Despite this strong performance, Lake Superior State capitalized on their power-play opportunities by scoring twice out of four chances and successfully defending against NMU's single man advantage.
NMU managed to put up 33 shots on target and dominated faceoffs by winning 40 draws compared to LSSU's 26. Notably strong performances came from Danny Ciccarello and Jesse Tucker in this area. The Wildcats also blocked 16 shots throughout the game.
The teams will face off again on Saturday at Taffy Abel Arena with puck drop scheduled for 6:07 p.m. ET as NMU aims to split the series.
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