PLYMOUTH, Mich. - Stevenson University Men's Hockey embarked on a program-first this afternoon as they took on USA Hockey's National Team Development Program (USNTDP) U18 squad. The Mustangs would fall 5-2, though they produced the closest result out of all Division III teams the NTDP has faced this season. In their previous contests, USNTDP defeated No. 3 Utica University 7-1 and No. 4 Adrian College 13-1.
After a scoreless first period, the USNTDP would get on the board twice within the first half of the second period. Senior Evan Beers would break the Red, White, and Blue's scoring streak thanks to passes from classmate Zach Egber and junior Graeme McCrory. USNTDP would score once more to finish out the period.
The third period began with a goal from junior Liam McCanney via senior Eric Olson, once more cutting the lead down to a one-goal differential. The hosts would score one more even strength goal before cashing in on an empty-netter.
In goal, first year Tommy Aitken stopped 35 of 39 shots. He shut down Cole Eiserman, the projected second overall pick in the NHL Draft, four times.
The Mustangs look to continue with this momentum tomorrow when they face No. 4 Adrian College at Arrington Ice Arena. Puck drop is set for 4:30 p.m.
