The University of Maine’s Black Bear hockey team achieved a notable victory, defeating the No. 6-ranked Denver Pioneers 5-2 at Magness Arena on March 15, 2024. This win marks Maine’s fourth consecutive game, bringing both teams to a record of 12-7-1 as they prepare for the series finale on March 16 at 20:00.
Sophomore right wing Thomas Pichette shone brightly during the match, registering the first two-goal game of his career along with a three-point outing. Meanwhile, junior goalie Albin Boija made 29 saves, demonstrating his prowess between the pipes. This loss for Denver is significant, as it represents only their 16th home defeat in the last 92 games, a stretch that includes 71 wins and 5 ties.
The game began with a scoreless first period, but momentum shifted in favor of the Black Bears in the second. At the 3:41 mark, freshman defenseman Lukas Peterson opened the scoring with a well-placed shot from the point, assisted by Pichette and senior defenseman Brandon Holt. Just over five minutes later, junior center Sully Scholle extended the lead to 2-0 with a wrist shot following a turnover, showcasing Maine’s quick transition game.
Maine’s defense was tested when Oskar Komarov received a five-minute major penalty, but the team held strong, allowing only two shots on goal during that stretch. This successful penalty kill preserved their two-goal lead entering the second intermission.
Pichette increased Maine’s advantage to 3-0 early in the third period, converting a feed from Justin Poirier. Denver responded with a power play goal from junior defenseman Boston Buckberger just 2:28 later, narrowing the gap to 3-1. However, Pichette quickly answered with his second goal of the night, only to see Denver’s freshman right wing Kristian Epperson reduce the deficit again, scoring shortly thereafter.
With just over five minutes remaining, Denver coach David Carle pulled goalie Quentin Miller in an attempt to spark a comeback. Yet, Boija’s skillful saves thwarted their efforts. Holt sealed the victory for Maine with an empty net goal, his fourth of the season, with only 59 seconds left on the clock.
Throughout the match, Maine outshot Denver 34-31, and despite Denver attempting an impressive 72 shots, Maine’s defense was formidable, blocking 19 shots compared to Denver’s four. Notably, junior defenseman Frank Djurasevic led the team with six blocked shots, contributing to Maine’s season total of 273, ranking fifth among all 63 Division I teams.
Head coach Ben Barr praised his team’s commitment and sacrifice, stating, “The guys sacrificed for each other and blocked a lot of shots. They played for each other and that’s a good sign for our culture.” He highlighted the importance of their penalty kill and the performance of the fourth line, noting their consistent contributions.
As the Black Bears prepare for the decisive game against Denver, they carry not only the momentum of this victory but also the confidence gained from their recent successes.
