BREAKING: The No. 3 Michigan Wolverines delivered a stunning performance, defeating the defending national champions, No. 2 Western Michigan, by a score of 4-0 at Yost Ice Arena on October 26, 2023. This victory keeps Michigan’s record unblemished at 7-0 this season.
Freshman goalie Jack Ivankovic was a wall in net, making 32 saves to secure the shutout against a formidable opponent. Michigan wasted no time, scoring just 1:50 into the game when Jayden Perron converted a slick pass from Nick Moldenhauer, marking his fourth goal of the season.
The match, a heavyweight clash between two top-five teams, saw both squads frequently visiting the penalty box. Michigan capitalized on its opportunities, scoring twice on the power play, while Western Michigan struggled to find the back of the net, finishing 0 for 8 with the man-advantage. The Broncos have now converted on just 2 for 30 power-play chances this season.
Michigan extended its lead to 2-0 at the 8:12 mark of the second period when Michael Hage, a projected first-round pick in the upcoming NHL draft, netted his sixth goal after a scramble in front of the net. Hage also contributed an assist on Michigan’s third goal, which came on a power play early in the third period when Adam Valentini scored after a deflection from Hage’s helmet.
As the game drew to a close, junior forward Garrett Schifsky sealed the deal with an empty-net goal with just 10 seconds remaining. Meanwhile, Ivankovic faced several high-danger chances from Western Michigan, including a near-miss when Bobby Cowan hit the post late in the first period.
Ivankovic’s stellar performance has been pivotal this season, as he has allowed only 7 goals across his first 7 games. Michigan has outscored its opponents by a staggering 44-7, marking their best start since 1979.
The two teams will meet again for a rematch tomorrow night at Lawson Arena in Kalamazoo, promising another thrilling showdown. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Michigan can maintain its perfect record against their rivals.