For the second consecutive contest, the offense put on an impressive showing, though once again it was not enough to get the win. This time though, the Badgers (2-7-1 overall, 1-1-1 Big Ten) were at least able to play to a 3-3 draw.
Facing a tough road test against the current Big Ten leaders in Michigan (5-2-2, 2-0-2), Wisconsin jumped out to a fast start. Just 15 minutes in, both 2014 Big Ten All-Freshmen team selections connected for the opening goal of the match, as forward Mark Segbers set up forward Tom Barlow for his second goal of the season.
The lead did not last long though, as the Wolverines came firing back quickly. Michigan responded with the equalizing goal just over a minute later, and within a span of six minutes turned a one-goal deficit into a two-goal lead.
The Badgers were able to chip away before halftime though, as sophomore midfielder Christopher Mueller sent a free kick past Michigan keeper Evan Louro with under 90 seconds to go until the break.
Riding the momentum of the late goal to end the first half, the Badgers came out strong in the second half and were able to knot up the score on redshirt sophomore midfielder Nick Jones’ first goal of the year just two minutes into the second half.
After a somewhat sloppy showing by both defenses through the game’s first 48 minutes, both sides tightened up for the remainder of the match. The Wolverines generated nearly all of the offensive chances in both overtime periods, notching eight shots over the two extra frames, but were unable to beat sophomore goalie Adrian Remeniuk, who ended the day with six saves.
The Wolverines dominated the Badgers statistically, outshooting them 23-10 overall and 9-3 on shots on goal, but the Wisconsin defense played well enough down the stretch to preserve the tie. Though they are still winless at home, the Badgers have now collected at least 1 point in three straight road contests (2-0-1).
“Michigan is a good team and a very talented one at that,” coach John Trask said after the game. “There was a six-minute period where we let our guard down in the first half and it cost us early on. Still, I was pleased with the effort from the guys to fight back and get a point on the road.”
The Badgers will now head back to Madison for a pair of home games, starting off with in-state rival Marquette before returning to conference play.
Kickoff against the Golden Eagles is slated for 7 p.m. Wednesday night at the McClimon Sports Complex.
