UTICA, NY - The Brockport ice hockey team dropped Friday's UCHC Opener at No. 3 Utica, 4-1, on November 13th. The Golden Eagles battled throughout the contest, highlighted by a second-period power-play goal from
Brennan Green, but Utica used a pair of second-period goals and a late empty-netter to secure the victory.
After Utica opened the scoring at 6:57 of the first period, Brockport entered the second looking to even the contest. The Golden Eagles delivered early, capitalizing on a power-play opportunity at the 3:50 mark.
Brennan Green found the back of the net for his goal of the contest, finishing off a man-advantage opportunity with assists from
Jacob Gates and
Michael Kull. Brockport converted one of its two power-play opportunities on the evening, giving the Golden Eagles an important offensive spark.
Utica responded just over three minutes later to reclaim the lead before adding another goal at 18:32 of the second period. Brockport entered the final period trailing 3-1.
Brockport continued to compete in the third period, looking to generate offense and cut into the deficit. The Golden Eagles recorded nine shots in the final frame, bringing their game total to 26.
Kaleb Miller led the Golden Eagles with four shots, including three in the third period, while
Eric Bertelsen generated a team-high five shots to help pace the Brockport attack.
Manny Sanchez and
Sacha Trudel each added two shots, providing additional offensive pressure throughout the contest.
John Rusen and
Schuyler Flansburg led the Golden Eagles with two blocked shots each, chipping in defensively.
Bertelsen also contributed defensively with a blocked shot and won three faceoffs, while
Jacob Gates and
Michael Kull each recorded an assist on Green's power-play tally. Gates added a blocked shot, helping Brockport compete on both ends of the ice.
David Filak made 36 saves in a strong effort, allowing three goals on 39 shots faced.
The Golden Eagles were unable to find another goal, and Utica added an empty-net tally with just over a minute remaining to seal the 4-1 decision.
Up Next: Brockport will host Utica in UCHC action on Saturday, November 13th. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 pm from the Wegmans Ice Arena
