Montgomery Scores First Goal in Dominant Wisconsin Win
IslandStats.com
The No. 17/16 Wisconsin men's hockey team completed a commanding series sweep over the Alaska Nanooks, sealing a 4-1 victory at the Kohl Center. A balanced offensive effort saw goals from four different skaters, including a memorable first collegiate strike for freshman Blake Montgomery, as the Badgers pulled away in the third period.
The Nanooks initially stunned the home crowd, getting on the scoreboard first at 8:55 into the opening period with a deflected shot. However, Wisconsin responded just before the buzzer, with Quinn Finley levelling the game on a power-play goal with only 21 seconds left in the first period, sending the teams into the break tied.
A tight, scoreless second period followed, with both defences holding firm. But the Badgers exploded out of the locker room for the third, scoring three times to take full control.
The decisive flurry began quickly, with Logan Hensler lighting the lamp at 1:04 into the final frame. Just under a minute later, at 2:00, Blake Montgomery registered his first collegiate goal. The freshman forward showed superb individual skill, beating two Alaska defenders to the front of the net before expertly flicking the puck home, extending Wisconsin's lead and sending the crowd into a frenzy.
Ryan Botterill then sealed the comprehensive victory, finding the empty net at 15:40 into the third period to make it a 4-1 game and clinch a satisfying series sweep for the Badgers.
The performance will give Wisconsin considerable confidence as they continue their season, showcasing their ability to break down opponents and finish strong.
