Late Winner Lifts UMass Past Vermont Saturday

BURLINGTON, Vt. – A staunch defensive performance by UMass goaltender Michael Hrabal propelled the Minutemen to a 1-0 victory over Vermont on Saturday at Gutterson Fieldhouse. This marks Hrabal’s second consecutive shutout against the Catamounts.

A Tight Contest Decided Late

The game remained scoreless for nearly 54 minutes, with both teams battling for control. A near-goal by Vermont’s Blake Steenerson with 10:55 remaining in the third period was reviewed by officials but ultimately deemed to have not crossed the goal line.

The Decisive Goal

UMass broke the deadlock with 6:20 left in regulation. Justin Kerr’s chip pass found Lucas Olvestad, who capitalized on a scoring opportunity, beating Vermont’s Aiden Wright for his fourth goal of the season.

Did You Know? UMass held Vermont to just two shots on goal in the first period, the fewest shots in a period by a Vermont opponent this season.

Hockey East Standings Implications

The win ties UMass for sixth place in the Hockey East standings with 21 points. Vermont currently sits in ninth place with 18 points, trailing UMass by three points. A nine-point gap separates the teams currently in fourth and eleventh place, highlighting the competitive nature of the conference.

Vermont’s Late Push

Vermont attempted to rally in the final minutes, pulling their goalie in a desperate bid for an equalizer. UMass’s defense successfully blocked four shots during this period. A final shot by Jonah Aegerter with five seconds remaining hit the crossbar, sealing Vermont’s fate.

Expert Insight: This game underscores the critical importance of goaltending in college hockey. Hrabal’s consecutive shutouts demonstrate his ability to single-handedly alter the outcome of a contest, particularly in a tightly contested conference like Hockey East.

Looking Ahead

Vermont will host Stonehill for the first time in program history next weekend, with games scheduled for Friday, January 30 at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Friday’s game will feature an M&T Bank Replica Jersey Giveaway for the first 400 fans, while Saturday will be Community Bank – Special Olympics Vermont Night and Senior Night, honoring seven graduating student-athletes.

Both games will be broadcast on ESPN+, with an international feed available via Stretch Internet. The radio call will be provided by Owen Gund on the Varsity Network and WVMT.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the next game for Vermont?

Vermont’s next game is against Stonehill on Friday, January 30 at 7 p.m.

Where will Vermont’s next games be played?

Vermont will host Stonehill at Gutterson Fieldhouse.

What special events are planned for next weekend’s games?

Friday will feature an M&T Bank Replica Jersey Giveaway, and Saturday will be Community Bank – Special Olympics Vermont Night and Senior Night.

What impact will this weekend’s results have on the remainder of the Hockey East season?