Great Lakes Wire

The Wildcats faced off against Michigan Tech in a pre-season exhibition match in Houghton, resulting in a narrow 4-3 loss despite a determined comeback effort.

Colby Browne was the first to score for the Wildcats this season, followed by goals from Nicolas Ardanaz and Jakub Altrichter. Matthew Romer contributed two assists, while Tynan Ewart and Tanner Latsch each added one assist. Goaltender Ryan Ouellette played the entire game, making 27 saves on 31 shots, achieving a .871 save percentage.

Michigan Tech had a slight edge in shots on target with four more than the Wildcats. However, the Wildcats excelled in faceoffs, winning 34 of 57 (59.6%), led by Altrichter with 65%, Billy Renfrew at 80%, and Grayden Slipec at 75%. The Wildcats went 1-3 on power plays compared to Michigan Tech's 2-5.

In terms of gameplay, Owen Baker opened scoring for the Huskies early on. Later in the first period, another goal put them up by two. The Wildcats responded quickly as Romer set up Browne for their first goal. In the third period, both teams exchanged goals before Ardanaz scored to bring his team closer again. Michigan Tech then capitalized on another power play opportunity before Altrichter's late goal brought hope back to the Wildcats.

Despite their efforts, Michigan Tech held onto their lead until the end of the match.

The regular season is set to begin with an away series against Colorado College on October 11 and October 12.