MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.– This past weekend, Minnesota (3-2) fell to their rival Minnesota–Duluth (2-0) in what became the highest scoring affair between the two rivals with a final score of 17-16. The game became a tale of two halves as the Maroon and Gold struggled defensively to contain the Bulldogs’ offense throughout the first half. UMD was able to score 12 goals on freshman Micah Schultz, who made his first career start for Minnesota. Struggles at the faceoff X for Minnesota also led to the time of possession favoring Duluth. However, Minnesota was able to put in 5 goals throughout the first half to go into halftime down 12-5.
Going into the second half, adjustments were made by Coach Limpert and his staff. Senior Clay Diedrich, who has been playing on the top midfield line this season made his return to close defense. Junior defenseman Mitch Grengs was tasked with neutralizing UMD’s Blake Barta at the faceoff. A goaltending change was also made with freshman Jake Rosenow making his collegiate debut.
The second half began with both teams trading goals. With the score at 13-6, Minnesota’s rally began, scoring 5 straight goals to cap off the 3rd quarter. UMN then scored 2 more goals within the opening minutes of the 4th quarter to bring the score to a 13-13 tie. The remainder of the 4th quarter became a battle with the Bulldogs scoring and Minnesota answering until time expired with the score tied at 16. Duluth was then able to win the opening draw of overtime and go on to score on their first possession to win the game.
Jake Rosenow finished with 10 saves, allowing only 5 goals for a .667 save percentage. Three players recorded 6 point games for Minnesota. Ian Obert had a breakout game with 3 goals and 3 assists, while Amar Batra also had 3 goals and 3 assists. Malik Ekpenyong scored a career high 5 goals along with 1 assist.
This upcoming weekend, Minnesota takes on Davenport Friday evening at HealthEast Sports Center. They will then pack their bags and travel down to Lincoln, Neb. and Lawrence Kan. for a pair of conference games against the Cornhuskers Saturday evening and the Jayhawks Sunday afternoon.
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