No. 16 Penn State men’s hockey is still undefeated, starting its conference season with a 2-1 win over Wisconsin.
Penn State opened its Big Ten slate on the road Friday night at the Kohl Center, and fought hard for a W after falling behind early.
The Nittany Lions are now 7-0-0, which is their best start ever. Goalie Liam Souliere saved 31 of 32 shots, and goals by Kevin Wall and Tyler Paquette made sure Souliere would be rewarded for his effort with a win.
Wisconsin drew first blood 3:41 into the first period when Dominik Mersch scored. But Penn State drew even before the period ended. 13:52 into the first period, Wall scored to tie it off a shot by freshman Jarod Crespo. The teams ended the first period tied at one.
Penn State scored what proved to be the winning goal 3:02 into the second period. Paquette beat Wisconsin goalie Jared Moe to put Penn State ahead, 2-1.
Moe saved 36-of-38 shots, but let in one shot too many. The Badgers are now 2-5-0 overall and 0-3-0 in the Big Ten.
Penn State and Wisconsin play against Saturday night at the Kohl Center. Face-off is scheduled for 8. Penn State returns to Pegula Ice Arena Friday, Nov. 4, with a 8:00 game against Michigan.
