In what could turn out to be a season defining victory, the Western Michigan hockey team defeated the No. 1 rated team in the country, Denver University. 6-5, in a game that featured multiple Bronco comebacks.

The Broncos trailed the defending NCAA champions 1-0 and tied the game on Wade Allison's goal, then tied the game again at 2 on Paul Stoykeych's goal. Denver's Henrik Borgstrom completed his hat trick to put Denver ahead 3-2, followed by a goal from fellow Finn Jaakko Heikkinen, putting the Pioneers ahead 4-2.

Another Bronco comeback began with, first a goal from Dawson DiPietro and then later Hugh McGing. After what seemed like a back breaking goal by Denver's Troy Terry to make it 5-4, Western pulled goalie Austin Cain, who making his first ever appearance ever, in relief of netminder Ben Blacker. Cain had stopped another breakaway by Terry to keep the score 5-4. Western, then with the empty net scored immediately to tie the game on Colt Conrad's goal. Finally, DiPetro's second goal of the game completed the comeback put Western ahead for the first, but final time.

The same two teams with play again Saturday night at Lawson Ice Arena.

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