Danny DeKeyer netted two goals and Frank Slubowski posted a shutout as the No. 19 Western Michigan University Broncos upset the No. 1 Ferris State University Bulldogs.
However, the Bulldogs still managed to clinch the CCHA regular season title following the weekend’s games.
The win showed Western Michigan’s continuing dominance over Ferris State, and ended Ferris State’s 15-game unbeaten streak. The Broncos took points from the Bulldogs in all four of their CCHA games this season.
“They’re the No. 1 team in the country,” said Western Michigan coach Andy Murray. “Getting points in all four games against them is gratifying. They’re a well-coached, hardworking team.”
DeKeyser started the game’s scoring early in the first period with a power-play goal that stood up as the game-winner.
As the Broncos gained the zone, DeKeyser threw a shot on net that was deflected by a Ferris State player and floated past freshman goalie C.J. Motte.
Ferris State fought back later in the frame while the Broncos were killing a penalty, but the Bulldogs couldn’t find a way to get the puck past Slubowski, despite Derek Graham getting multiple opportunities from the top of the crease.
“Our penalty kill was the difference on the weekend,” said Murray.
Ferris State coach Bob Daniels said the teams’ lack of offensive output on the weekend was not a big concern.
“I don’t think tonight’s a night to worry about,” said Daniels. “We had enough opportunities to score, but their goaltender deserves a lot of credit. He played a great game.”
Midway through the second period, Shane Berschbach added to the Broncos’ lead with a wrister from the high slot that found its way through traffic and past Motte.
DeKeyser scored his second of the game in the waning seconds of the third period with an empty-net goal as the Bulldogs pressed to get on the board.
Both teams appeared intent on the coming playoff push following the game.
“The biggest thing is another couple of games at home in front of our fans,” said Murray when asked about the victory.
Daniels and the Ferris State players were also focused on the playoffs.
“Jordie Johnston said it right” ‘Let’s enjoy this for a little while before we put it on the shelf and go on to our next pursuit,'” said Daniels.
