University Park, Pa. — Tempers ran high throughout No. 6 Penn State’s 3–0 win over Long Island University on Saturday, completing a series sweep that featured 27 penalties, including five misconducts.
Following the game, head coach Guy Gadowsky said the officiating allowed the tension to escalate, which led to a tense handshake with LIU coach Brendan Riley.
Despite the chippiness, Penn State freshman goaltender Josh Fleming earned his first shutout of the season.
“I was pleased with my effort,” Fleming said after the game, “but there’s still room to improve.”
Penn State set the tone early with an aggressive forecheck — something Gadowsky said was more about mindset than tactical change.
The Nittany Lions’ top line of Matt DiMarsico, Charlie Cerrato, and JJ Wiebusch combined for seven points (three goals, four assists) and established control from the opening minutes. Just five minutes into the first period, Wiebusch finished off a setup from Cerrato and DiMarsico to give Penn State a 1–0 lead.
Early in the second period, the same trio struck again. DiMarsico fed Cerrato in front, who buried a backhander past LIU goaltender Daniel Duris to make it 2–0.
The intensity ramped up midway through the second when LIU forward Noah Serdachny was called for boarding and received a game misconduct after a post-whistle scrum.
Although the Nittany Lions couldn’t capitalize on the ensuing power play, LIU’s forecheck caused brief frustration for Penn State’s offense. Still, Fleming remained steady, turning away every Sharks scoring chance.
The third period turned chaotic, with 18 penalties called amid several after-the-whistle scrums. Penn State’s penalty kill was perfect again, stopping all six LIU power plays.
Late in the period, DiMarsico and Aiden Fink created a shorthanded opportunity, setting up Reese Laubach in front for a goal that extended the lead to 3–0.
Tensions boiled over in the final minute as Penn State forwards Shea Van Olm and Braedon Ford tangled with LIU’s Luca Leighton and Garrett Valk.
With the sweep secured, No. 6 Penn State (5-1-0) continues its homestand next Friday night against Stonehill at 7 p.m. ET. The game will stream live on Big Ten Plus.
Nittany Sports Now’s Three Stars
Third Star – Matt DiMarsico
DiMarsico ends the weekend with six total points after a three assist performance against the Sharks.
Second Star – Charlie Cerrato
Cerrato continues to play as the top center in college hockey. Cerrato’s beauty on the backhand in the second period was a true highlight.
First Star – Josh Fleming
Fleming was in sync tonight with the game. I was impressed with his poise and his ability to see the puck thwarted many odd man rushes the Sharks weren’t able to convert on.
