Pietila Brothers, Huskies Too Much for Minnesota Friday Night

As the final buzzer sounded the crowd at MacInnes Arena was chanting “overrated” to the #1 ranked University of Minnesota Golden Gophers. Michigan Tech deserved it as they out-skated Minnesota to a 5-3 victory Friday night in front of the home crowd. Pheonix Copley made 28 out of 31 saves to secure the win including several last minute attempts by the Gophers. 

All in all, it was Michigan Tech’s defense which stood strong denying Bjugstad an opportunity in the 3rd and kept the Gophers offense at bay. Minnesota’s defense looked a little shaky with Lucia juggling the pairings throughout the 3rd period of play trying to find stronger combinations. Player of the game, from my point of view, was Blake Pietila who had two big goals, followed closely behind by his older brother, Chad Pietila, who gave the Gophers defense fits all night.

Gophers coach Don Lucia will have to wait for his 600th win as Minnesota will try and rebound tomorrow night after taking their first loss of the young season. Both teams move to 2-1 overall on the season. 

Charlie