NMU Beats Tech 2-0 in WCHA Opener

MARQUETTE, Mich. — Northern Michigan scored two goals in the first period and held on for a 2-0 WCHA victory over Michigan Tech tonight at the Berry Events Center. Pheonix Copley made 31 saves in goal for the Huskies, but the Wildcats' Mathias Dahlstrom earned the shutout with 24 saves.

The hosts jumped out to an early lead with Stephen Vigier putting a shot high over Copley's shoulder just 4:55 into the contest.

Later in the frame, Tech was whistled for three consecutive penalties. The Wildcats converted the second of those power plays with Brock Maschmeyer's goal.

NMU was called for three penalties in a row in the second half of the second period. Tech could not convert.

Midway through the third period, Tech's Mike Neville was called for checking from behind and give a five-minute major and game misconduct. Copley made some key saves to keep it a two-goal game.

The Wildcats also took two penalties during Neville's major, resulting in four-on-four action for nearly four minutes. Both teams had scoring chances, but neither scored.

Northern Michigan (2-3-0, 1-0-0 WCHA) finished with a 33-24 advantage in shots on goal.

Michigan Tech (0-4-1, 0-1-0 WCHA) was 0-for-6 on the power play while NMU was 1-for-6.

The rivals, playing their first league series against each other since 1997, will play again tomorrow night. The game will be Tech's regular season home opener at the John MacInnes Student Ice Arena. Faceoff is set for 7:07 p.m.