After pulling the first upset of the Hockey East playoffs last night in a dramatic 2-1 win, fifth-seeded UMass Lowell was looking to go one step further and go for the sweep. They were sent a strong message early on, however, as they got a taste of the best power play in the nation.
The fourth-seeded Maine defeated Lowell 2-0 by getting on the board just 40 seconds in on the man-advantage when Spencer Abbott recorded his eighth goal of the season on an assist from linemate Robby Dee. After more than doubling the River Hawks in shots 14-6, Lowell netminder Carter Hutton was peppered with shots and put to the test in the first 20.
Known to be one of the most difficult arenas for an opponent to play in due to the fan base, Lowell got the full dose when Alfond Arena erupted on Tanner House's power play goal midway through the second at 12:45.
National points leader Gustav Nyquist and Robby Dee helped set up the play. Though unable to tally a goal, Lowell put forth a better offensive effort during the period, outshooting Maine 12-4.
The third period was a different story, however.
Maine continued their strong defensive play, holding the River Hawks to just five shots all period. Dave Wilson stepped up his game to record the shut-out and turn away all 30 shots he faced.
Though Lowell was final able to put an end to their playoff drought with Maine, they couldn't make it two in a row and will again need to find a way to solve their bad luck in Black Bear territory.
The third and deciding game will take place tomorrow night in Orono, Maine, at 7 p.m.
