Northern Michigan scored two goals in the first period and never looked back in beating Michigan Tech 4-1 Friday night in front of 3,880 at the Berry Events Center.
Tyler Gron had two goals and an assist for NMU (9-7-3), while Jared Coreau stopped 29 shots for the win.
“It was a good game and [Michigan Tech is] a good hockey team,” Northern Michigan coach Walt Kyle said. “We were fortunate we got to an early lead. The rest of the game was very even. We caught a couple of breaks.”
“The first period was the hockey game,” said MTU coach Mel Pearson. “They jumped us pretty good, won the battles and scored on their opportunities. We battled back and made it close, but couldn’t get all the way back. Tonight really showed the importance of a good start.”
Reed Seckel and Erik Higby also scored for NMU.
Aaron Pietila tallied the Huskies’ goal and Josh Robinson and Kevin Genoe combined for 28 saves.
The Wildcats host the Russian Red Stars in an exhibition game on Dec. 30 before hosting Alaska on Jan. 6-7. MTU (9-9-1) is off before hosting the Great Lakes Invitational at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit on Dec. 29-30.
