CMU Hockey throttles Davenport in season opener
Sophomore forward Jay Naidu celebrates after scoring a goal against Davenport on Friday, Oct. 1 at Martin Arena.
It was a home opener to remember for Central Michigan’s Division III club hockey team.
Hosting the first of a season opening home-and-home series against Davenport University, game one went to the Chippewas with a score of 10-1 in front of a packed Martin Arena.
“Our puck movement was well, and our penalty kill was really solid,” said head coach Tyler Cataline.
How It Happened
The Chippewas came out ready to play and made it known with an unassisted goal that found the top-right corner of the net just forty-five seconds into the first period from alternative captain Jorden Cooper. That gave the Chippewas momentum that was unmatched.
Even with a goal called off, the momentum still stayed on the Chippewas side with a top-shelf goal being scored just about a minute later. After that, the goals and the momentum failed to sway out of CMU's favor. Freshmen Issac Gibbs and Owen Campell put their stamp on the ice with a pair of goals to start off their ACHA hockey career.
CMU goaltender Thomas Rofe stood tall and was able to knock down all but one shot from Davenport. The Chippewas defense was rock solid and managed to make Rofe’s job easier. Defenseman Christopher Martin was a big physical prescience, making plays, and keeping the puck away from his goalie.
The game turned physical as Davenport grew frustrated and tired. With a thin bench and a widening margin on the scoreboard, several roughing penalties were called on each end. The roughness and chirpiness from the Panthers failed to get under the skin of the Chippewas, who continued to pour on goals and scoring opportunities.
Key Stats
Campbell and Gibbs contributed two goals each in their team debuts.
Christopher Martin and Brendan Martin totaled three powerplay goals.
“We played all three periods super hard, won battles, won faceoffs, capitalized on chances when we needed to,” said forward Andrew Porzondek.
What’s Next
The Chippewas are on the road for their second game against Davenport University, set for
