The second-ranked Arizona State hockey team ventured to Ames, Iowa for their first road trip—and first true test—of the season this weekend. Friday's game saw ASU emerge with a thrilling 4-3 victory thanks to Jordan Young's overtime goal, and Saturday's game would prove to be another hard fought affair.
Unlike the series opener, ASU struck first. Danny McAuliffe, returning from his game misconduct from Friday's game, scored his third goal of the year midway through the first period. McAuliffe's tally was the only scoring of an otherwise quiet opening period.
The second period continued to see each team being turned back offensively, including two failed Cyclone power plays. The Sun Devils received a man advantage thanks to Joe Bueltel's unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, and Dan Styrna made them pay with his first goal of the season to double the team's lead.
Both goalies continued to be excellent into the third period. ISU's Scott Ismond did not allow another goal after Styrna's second period score, and finished with 43 saves. The Cyclones finally figured out ASU's Corey Frank when Antii Helanto scored late in the third period, but Frank held the line to preserve the 2-1 ASU win. He notched 22 saves in earning his first victory of the season.
The sweep puts ASU at 5-0-0 on the year. They hit the ice next Friday and Saturday back home at Oceanside Ice Arena when the Sun Devils host No. 5 Lindenwood. Friday's game is set for 8:00 p.m. with Saturday's tilt starting 7:00 p.m.
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