UMD men’s hockey finds positives from tough road opener, ready for Wisconsin

Before facing Minnesota State University, Mankato last weekend, head coach Scott Sandelin said the series was going to be a learning experience for his University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) men’s hockey team.

That it was. The Bulldogs dropped game one Friday 6-0, then game two Saturday 2-1. The early top ten road test exposed some special teams struggles, with UMD allowing five power play goals.

However Sandelin said he liked their response in game two and the team’s positivity in the following practices.

“We’re not even close to being where we need to be or where we’re going to be, and if we are then it’s going to be a long year, but I really like this group. I think this group has got a lot of potential, I’ve said that every week, but we’re going to grow into it. Hopefully this weekend we can find a way to grow a little bit more.”

Now 2-2 No. 10 UMD returns home this weekend hosting the 0-4 Wisconsin Badgers. Puck drop Friday is set for 7 p.m. and Saturday at 6 p.m. at AMSOIL Arena.