SCHNECTADY, N.Y. - The UConn men's hockey team snapped a three-game losing streak as they win game two at Union College by a final of 5-0. Sophomore Tristan Fraser scored two goals, while senior goaltender Ethan Haider posted a 22 save shutout Saturday afternoon.
Despite outshooting the Garnet Chargers 21-4 in the first period, both teams entered the period break scoreless. UConn had multiple chances to take the lead in the first period but strong goaltending play by Kyle Chauvette of Union kept the Huskies off the board.
The Huskies continued to put pressure on the Union defense, creating scoring chances and maintaining puck possession. The Huskies finally broke through as Matthew Wood fired a one-timer off the face off to give UConn the one goal lead. Later in the second period, the Huskies offense came to life. Sophomore Samu Salminen was able to find Chase Bradley through a scrum of people in front of the net for the goal to give UConn the two-goal lead. Following Bradley's goal, sophomore Tristan Fraser redirected a shot past the goaltender to extend the Huskies lead to three entering the final period. After two periods, the Huskies had outshot the Garnet Chargers 39-13.
The Huskies offense continued to roll in the third period as they scored two more goals to seal the non-conference victory. Early in the third period, after a shot on net, there was a scramble for the puck, and graduate student Ryan Mahshie was able to find the back of the net for his first career goal as a Husky. With the four-goal lead, UConn's defense and goaltender Ethan Haider were able to shine. Haider continued to lockdown the UConn net, saving anything coming his way, and the Huskies used that defense to continue to attack and pressure the Garnet Chargers. Late in the third period, sophomore Tristen Fraser scored his second of the night on a two on one rush to give UConn the five-goal lead and seal the victory for the Huskies. Senior Ethan Haider secured his first win and shutout as a Husky.
UConn's offense bounced back in a big way following the Friday night loss, totaling 69 shots on goal.
UConn will be back in action Friday October 27, as they begin a home and home series with UMass Lowell. Both games can be streamed live on ESPN+.
