Josh Swartout came up big for Gustavus against Concordia.
Gustavus goaltender Josh Swartout turned in an outstanding performance to help the men’s hockey team slip past Concordia 2-0 at Don Roberts Ice Rink in St. Peter, Minn. on Saturday afternoon. David Martinson provided the Gusties with all of the offense they would need as he scored both goals. With the win, Gustavus remains in first place in conference play with a mark of 9-1-2 (20 points). The Gusties will face Hamline in a showdown between the first and second place teams in the MIAC standings next Friday and Saturday.
After a scoreless first period, Martinson gave the Gusties a 1-0 lead when he skated up the left side of the rink and snapped a wrist shot past Concordia goaltender Jacob Vatnsdal into the upper right corner of the net at the 3:27 mark of the middle period. Concordia managed to manufacture several strong scoring opportunities, but Swartout responded with a big save each time the Cobbers put a good shot on net and the Gusties took their 1-0 lead into the locker room after two periods of play.
Martinson celebrates after his first of two goals on the day.
The two teams would continue to battle all through the third period with both squads putting together several good scoring opportunities, but neither team could convert until Martinson once again skated up the left side and sent another laser into the upper right corner of the net with just one minute, ten seconds left in regulation play. Gustavus would hold on for the important 2-0 victory.
Josh Swartout picked up the win in goal for the Gusties. He made 19 saves. Vatnsdahl played well, but suffered the loss for Concordia. He registered 31 saves.