The University of Denver hockey team, ranked No. 9, suffered a 5-0 defeat at the hands of the No. 5 North Dakota Fighting Hawks Friday night at Ralph Engelstad Arena in Grand Forks, North Dakota.
A Difficult Night in North Dakota
The Fighting Hawks dominated the game, outshooting the Pioneers 36-18. North Dakota’s Jan Spunar earned a shutout, stopping all 18 shots faced. Anthony Menghini led the Fighting Hawks offense with two goals, while Cole Reschny contributed a goal and an assist.
Denver’s Quentin Miller, making his 21st consecutive start, recorded 16 saves before being replaced in the third period by Johnny Hicks, who added 15 saves on 16 shots.
North Dakota capitalized on early Denver miscues, scoring just over a minute into the game with a goal from Ellis Rockwood following a failed clear. Menghini extended the lead seven and a half minutes later. The Hawks added two more goals in the second period, courtesy of Jack Kernan and another from Menghini. Reschny completed the scoring late in the third.
Looking Ahead
Denver and North Dakota will conclude their weekend series on Saturday at 5 p.m. MT, with the game broadcast on NCHC.tv. Following this contest, the Pioneers will begin a four-game homestand next weekend against St. Cloud State.
Denver Head Coach David Carle acknowledged the team’s struggles, stating, “It’s kind of the same story where we’re having to earn our chances and our goals. We feel like we’re hand delivering some things to the other team.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the game?
The final score was North Dakota 5, Denver 0.
When is the next game for the Denver Pioneers?
The Pioneers will play North Dakota again on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 5 p.m. MT.
Where can fans watch the next game?
The game will be broadcast on NCHC.tv.
What adjustments do you think the Pioneers need to make to be more competitive in tomorrow’s game?
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