UPDATE: The fifth-ranked Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs secured a crucial 3-1 victory over the Arizona State Sun Devils in NCHC play at Amsoil Arena on December 15, 2023. This win marks the Bulldogs’ impressive record of 10-0 in series openers on Friday nights this season.
The Bulldogs showcased their resilience, particularly during a tense final six minutes, where they successfully killed off a major penalty. Leading the charge for Minnesota Duluth were Max Plante, the nation’s top scorer with 29 points, Kyle Gaffney, and Daniel Shlaine, each contributing a goal to the team’s success. The Bulldogs now boast an overall record of 14-5 and 7-3 in NCHC play.
Adam Gajan, the Bulldogs’ sophomore goaltender, made 16 saves as Arizona State struggled offensively, managing only 17 shots on goal throughout the game. Despite a five-minute major power play, the Sun Devils could only muster five shots in the third period. In contrast, ASU’s Connor Hasley recorded 36 saves against a relentless Bulldogs offense.
“We showed great character in the final minutes, especially on the penalty kill,” said head coach Scott Sandelin, who celebrated his landmark 1,000th game as head coach of the Bulldogs.
The game took a dramatic turn when Arizona State’s junior captain, Kyle Smolen, had to be carried off the ice after a hard hit from Bulldogs defenseman Adam Kleber. This led to a major interference penalty, giving ASU a crucial power play opportunity. However, Minnesota Duluth’s defense held firm, and Shlaine sealed the victory with an empty-net goal just as Kleber returned to the ice.
Gaffney’s goal, his first as a Bulldog, came from a well-executed play that saw Hunter Anderson feed him for a wide-open shot late in the second period. This strategic line change by Sandelin proved effective, as it allowed Gaffney to find the net after transferring from Alaska.
The Bulldogs capitalized on the power play during the second period, repeating a successful play from their previous game against Western Michigan. Plante’s goal came from a quick shot in the slot, making it their fourth power play goal in the last five attempts, showcasing their efficiency with a 60% success rate during this stretch.
Arizona State’s lone goal came from Ty Nash, a local talent who scored late in the first period, giving the Sun Devils an early lead. However, the team struggled to maintain momentum, facing a Bulldogs defense that was relentless throughout the match.
Fans can look forward to the rematch as the Bulldogs face Arizona State again at 5 p.m. on Saturday at Amsoil Arena, before taking a two-week holiday break. Minnesota Duluth will return to action on January 2, 2024, against Manitoba in an exhibition game.
This thrilling victory not only solidifies the Bulldogs’ strong standing in the NCHC but also highlights their ability to perform under pressure, setting the stage for an exciting continuation of the season.
