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Minnesota, Minnesota State and St. Cloud State are all ranked in the top 10 of the latest USCHO Division I Men's Poll. Unfortunately, none of the three Minnesota teams will be making much progress up the rankings after splitting their weekend series.
The No. 2 Golden Gophers had a great opportunity to steal first-place votes away from No. 1 Quinnipiac. Unfortunately, Denver goaltender Juno Olkinuora was too strong in net Friday, making 33 saves to give the Pioneers a much-needed shutout win in their quest to earn home-ice in the WCHA playoffs. Minnesota turned the tables Saturday thanks to a flurry of third period goals -- four in all -- for a 5-1 win. Zach Budish scored twice and added two assists.
Minnesota State also had a lethargic outing Friday, taking on unranked Colorado College. They lost 4-1 as goalie Stephon Williams gave up three goals on just 26 shots faced. The Mavericks fired back with a 7-2 win on Saturday, which included a hat trick from sophomore Matt Leitner.
St. Cloud State suffered reverse fortune. A 5-3 win Friday led to a blowout 5-1 loss Saturday against Michigan Tech. Goaltender Ryan Faragher saved 42 of 45 shots faced Friday, but was pulled Saturday after spotting Michigan Tech a 4-0 lead on just 18 shots faced.
Friday scores
Denver 2, Minnesota 0
Michigan Tech 3, St. Cloud State 5
Minnesota State 1, Colorado College 4
Bemidji State 2, North Dakota 4
Alabama-Hunstville 2, Minnesota-Duluth 4
Saturday scores
Denver 1, Minnesota 5
Michigan Tech 5, St. Cloud State 2
Minnesota State 7, Colorado College 2
Bemidji State 2, North Dakota 2 OT
Alabama-Huntsville 0, Minnesota-Duluth 2
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