By Nick Hoven, UWEC Sports Information
Eau Claire, Wis. (Blugolds.com) – The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire men's hockey team returned to Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference play on Friday evening as they hosted the Northland College Lumberjacks at Hobbs Ice Arena. After falling behind early, the Blugolds surged back in the final frame to complete the 5-1 comeback.
Eau Claire fell behind late in the first period despite outshooting their opponents 26 to 14 through two-thirds of the game. The third period would bring more light to the Blugold faithful after the tying goal was scored just four minutes in. Zach Kennedy (Jr. – Eagle River, WI/Northland Pines) would clean up a loose puck in front of the net to tie the game at one. From there, Eau Claire went on a flurry and took control of the game.
Jon Richards (Jr. – Callaway, MN/Detroit Lakes) would find space in the slot and rifle the game-winning shot of the blocker of the Northland goalie to make it 2-1. Moments later, Nick Techel (Wausau, WI/West) would receive a feed on the back door to score his second of the season to extend the lead to 3-1.
Derek Hammer (So. – Woodbury, MN/East Ridge) and Adam Parsells (Jr. – Wausau, WI/West) would add a goal each to solidify the win just a little after the 11-minute mark of the period.
Goaltender Riley McVeigh (So. – Calgary, AB/Rundle College) started his second game this season and stopped 15 of 16 shots on his way to his second victory of the year. His record now stands at 2-0-0.
The Blugolds will take to the ice on Saturday, December 7th when they host the UW-River Falcons at 7 PM.
Follow the Blugolds all season long on Blugold Game Day or on the 'UWEC Blugolds' app from your mobile device.
