The Union Dutchmen shocked the college hockey world Saturday night as they defeated NCAA powerhouse Minnesota in the National Championship Game. It was Union’s first NCAA Hockey Championship ever. A tremendous feat for a university that competes at a Division III level in every other sport.
The high scoring 7-4 victory over Minnesota was highlighted by a three goal burst that propelled the Dutchmen to the championship. With the Gophers leading 2-1 in the first period, the Dutchmen exploded with three goals in a 1 minute 54 second span. The Dutchmen lead 4-2 after one period.
The Gophers fought back early in the second to draw within one goal. The remainder of the second period was scoreless, and after two it was 4-3.
The Dutchmen scored five minutes into the third to go up 5-3. That was all Union needed as they later racked up a few more goals late in the game. The Dutchmen went on to finish off their championship dream with a 7-4 victory over the Golden Gophers.
Shayne Gostisbehere of Union ended the game with an amazing +7, and Dutchman goaltender Colin Stevens made 36 saves.
The first ever championship for Union solidifies them as an NCAA hockey powerhouse for the future. Congratulations Dutchmen!
Brad Burud the owner/editor of the Inside Edge Hockey News. I am a huge fan of hockey, from youth hockey, to junior hockey, and of course professional hockey. I have played, coached, worked as statistician, and watched hockey all of my life. Hockey is not just a game, it is a lifestyle and family. The game of hockey is great! It can bring you nights of great enjoyment. It also brings nights where you feel like your team will never win. I am proud to be a journalist for the greatest game in the world. I have a degree in Business Administration, Psychology from Minot State University. I also have a Hockey General Manager and Scouting, and Sports Communications/Journalism degree from Sports Management Worldwide. I am also a member of the Sports Executives Association. Most of all I am a fan. Hockey is a huge part of my life and my families life.