MENOMONIE, Wis. — University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (16-6-2, 11-2-1) fell to University of Wisconsin-Stout (18-5-1, 11-2-1), 2-1, at the Dunn County Ice Arena. The Blugolds outshot the Blue Devils 36-28 but could not overcome the Blue Devils' go-ahead goal in the second period.
The first period commenced with
Max Gutjahr in goal for UW-Eau Claire and Sebastian Monaco guarding the net for UW-Stout. Both teams exchanged early shots, with Monaco denying attempts from
Easton Inglis and
Dayne Hoyord. UW-Stout capitalized on its momentum at 14:58 when Tristan Therrien scored the only goal of the period, assisted by Nicolas Pigeon, marking Therrien's 10th of the season. The period concluded with UW-Stout leading 1-0, despite the Blugolds' persistent offensive efforts.
UW-Eau Claire initially seized momentum in the second period with a power play opportunity but failed to score despite multiple attempts, as Monaco made several key saves.
Leo Bacallao broke the deadlock at 13:55, scoring at even strength with assists from
Kade Peterson and
Max Ruoho, bringing his season total to 12 goals. UW-Stout responded quickly at 9:07, when Pigeon netted what proved to be the game-winning goal, assisted by Hayden Stocks and Therrien. The period saw consistent pressure from both teams, but solid goaltending and defensive efforts maintained the tight scoreline.
The Blugolds and UW-Stout remained in a tight contest throughout the third period, with neither team able to find the back of the net. Early on, UWEC had opportunities with two power plays, but UW-Stout's defense held firm, notably with saves by Monaco. Despite the Blugolds' persistent pressure, including multiple shots by
Nolan Grier and
Tyler Herzberg, they were unable to convert. UW-Stout also failed to capitalize on its own power play, with Gutjahr making key saves for UWEC. Ultimately, the period ended without any scoring, and UW-Stout maintained its slim 2–1 lead to secure the victory.
Bacallao led the offensive effort by scoring one goal and taking seven shots, while maintaining a perfect 100 percent faceoff win rate. Peterson contributed with one assist and added one blocked shot to his performance. Ruoho also recorded an assist and blocked one shot during the game. Gutjahr, in goal, made 26 saves while allowing two goals.
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