Another Hockey Heartbreaker....No Overtime Needed

Just when you thought they couldn't find a way to lose in more heartbreaking fashion. They prove you wrong. At least that's how the Wisconsin men's hockey team makes it seem at times this season.

With a young team this season the Badgers were not expected to be back where they were just a year ago, but to say that things have been interesting would be an understatement. Losing leads late, and giving up deciding goals in the third period. Losing two games in overtime on consecutive nights may have seemed at times devastating, but Friday night in Alaska may be the new definition of devastation.

In a game that went scoreless in the first period the Badgers were unable to capitalize on a power-play in the second period. But Alaska-Anchorage was able to cash in on that power-play; scoring a short handed goal by Craig Parkinson. Giving the Seawolfs a 1-0 lead in the second. A lead the Badgers would answer just ten minutes later.

Off of a wrist shot by Craig Smith, Wisconsin forward Jordy Murray was able to deflect the puck off the pipe, and into the net. Making the game all square at one heading into the third period. A frame that would be full of Badger penalties, and one in an bad spot.

Wisconsin would serve the first four penalties of the third period. Then Alaska-Anchorage would get their spot in the box following a hooking penalty against Daniel Naslund. Giving the Badgers a power-play, but one that would be short-lived.

Just thirteen seconds later Wisconsin's Jake Gardiner would be called for interference creating an even strength situation for the remainder of regulation. Setting up would be a devastating final seconds.

With just ticks left on the clock Seawolfs freshman Jordan Kwas centered a pass to senior Tommy Grant. Who would lift the puck over Wisconsin goaltender Scott Gudmandson's shoulder and into the net. With just eight seconds left on the clock the score read 2-1.

The final eight would tick off the clock giving Alaska-Anchorage their first win over the Badgers since 2006. Not to mention giving the Badgers another knock in the stomach in what is turning out to be a season of growing pains.