Backed by Thiessen No. 20 UMD men’s hockey splits NCHC opener, returns home to host Omaha

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Their first National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) test of the season didn’t go exactly how the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) men’s hockey team was hoping.

Last Friday they fell to Colorado College 5-0, but then regrouped behind graduate netminder Matthew Thiessen Saturday winning 3-1 to split their series.

“He’s the reason we wanted another guy, older guy, he’s got experience,” head coach Scott Sandelin explained. “Obviously he’s a draft pick. Talented goaltender that’s getting another opportunity, and again anybody that works with Brant [Nicklin] they’re going to get better. He’s had some opportunities and he’s done a good job.”

Thiessen recorded 36 saves over the weekend which included his third start for the Bulldogs in game two against Colorado.

No. 20 UMD (5-5) hosts their first NCHC home series this weekend welcoming the University of Nebraska Omaha to AMSOIL Arena Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 6 p.m.