Despite missing three key players, including two defenseman, Western Michigan was able to hold the potent offense of Miami scoreless, and win 2-0 on their home ice on Friday night, to pass the RedHawks and regain first place in the CCHA.
Western Michigan opened the scoring early at 3:31 of the first period when defenseman Jordan Oesterle fired the puck towards the net, through traffic, and it trickled past Miami goalie Jay Williams. Chase Balisy added a second goal as insurance in the third period. Western Michigan goalie Frank Slubowski was strong throughout, stopping 32 Miami shots. Jay Williams made 21 saves for Miami, including stopping a Mike Leone penalty shot in the second period.
The Broncos should get a boost tomorrow evening when Dennis Brown and Justin Kovacs return from one-game suspensions.They'll come into the game with a two point lead over the RedHawks, and a chance to take a commanding lead in the CCHA standings with another win.