Get ready for a thrilling matchup as No. 4 UND takes on Colorado College in a highly anticipated hockey clash, marking their first meeting in Colorado Springs in two years. This game promises intense action, strategic plays, and a battle for supremacy on the ice. But here's where it gets controversial—can UND maintain their eight-game winning streak, or will Colorado College rise to the challenge and disrupt their momentum? Let’s dive into the details and find out.
Game Details
When: 8 p.m. Central / 7 p.m. Mountain
Where: Ed Robson Arena, Colorado Springs, Colorado
How to Watch: Catch the game on Midco Sports (GF Ch. 27/622 HD), SOCO CW, MTN TV, DirecTV 659, NESN+, or Gray Media Outlets.
Listen Live: Tune in to The Fox (96.1 FM) at https://961thefox.iheart.com/.
Stream Online: Visit NCHChockey.com/tv for live streaming.
First Period Highlights
UND struck first, with Ellis Rickwood scoring at 6:18, assisted by Mac Swanson and Will Zellers. The play began with defenseman Keaton Verhoeff’s deep zone pass, leading to a series of shots that ultimately found the back of the net. This marks Rickwood’s ninth point in just five games since returning from injury—a testament to his impact on the team. And this is the part most people miss: UND’s ability to capitalize on quick transitions has been a game-changer this season.
Second Period Recap
Colorado College equalized early in the second period when Drew Montgomery scored at 1:33, assisted by Seth Constance. Montgomery’s goal came after a crucial save by Tiger goalie Kaidan Mbereko on Will Zellers. But the Tigers weren’t done—they took the lead at 9:50 with Ryan Alexander’s rebound goal, assisted by Connor Hvidston and Fisher Scott. This shift highlighted UND’s fatigue after a prolonged offensive push, raising questions about their line management. Is UND’s depth being tested, or was this just a momentary lapse?
Team Lineups
UND’s Roster
Forwards:
- Line 1: Mac Swanson, Ellis Rickwood, Will Zellers
- Line 2: Dylan James, Cole Reschny, Ben Strinden
- Line 3: Ollie Josephson, Jack Kernan, Cade Littler
- Line 4: Anthony Menghini, David Klee, Tyler Young
Defensemen:
- Jake Livanavage, Bennett Zmolek
- Abram Wiebe, Keaton Verhoeff
- Andrew Strathmann, E.J. Emery
- Sam Laurila
Goaltenders:
- Jan Špunar
- Gibson Homer
- Zach Sandy
Scratches: Cody Croal (illness), Josh Zakreski (lower body), Dalton Andrew, Jayden Jubenvill, Ian Engel.
Colorado College’s Roster
Forwards:
- Line 1: Tomas Mrsic, Klavs Veinbergs, Wilson Björck
- Line 2: Drew Montgomery, Connor Hvidston, Bret Link
- Line 3: Brandon Lisowsky, Brayden Schuurman, Gavin Lindberg
- Line 4: Mateo Mrsic, Ryan Alexander, Riley Stuart
Defensemen:
- Fisher Scott, Mats Lindgren
- Ryan Koering, Seth Constance
- Philippe Blais-Savoie, Matteo Mann
- Nick Baer
Goaltenders:
- Kaidan Mbereko
- Jackson Unger
- Beckham Dempsey
Scratches: Owen Beckner (upper body), Max Burkholder (lower body), Colton Roberts (lower body), Shane Kozlina, Merril Steenari, Jordan Brisson.
Officials
Referees: Stephen Reneau and Jake Jackson
Linesmen: Daniel Naylor and Eric McDonald
Supervisor: None
Pregame Insights
UND enters the game with only two players sidelined due to injury, while Colorado College is missing key players like Owen Beckner and Max Burkholder. UND’s eight-game winning streak and 12-1 record in their last 13 games make them the favorites, but Colorado College is no pushover. The goalie matchup between Jan Špunar and Kaidan Mbereko adds another layer of intrigue. Will UND’s offensive firepower overpower the Tigers, or will Colorado College’s resilience pull off an upset?
Final Thoughts
This game is more than just a regular-season matchup—it’s a test of UND’s dominance and Colorado College’s ability to rise to the occasion. With both teams fielding talented lineups, expect a fast-paced, physical contest. What do you think? Can Colorado College stop UND’s winning streak, or will the Fighting Hawks continue their march toward greatness? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
