The NMU club hockey team is home for a final game against rival Michigan Tech after the WCCHA Tournament in Blaine, Minn.

Junior goalie Jeff Ryan said the tournament didn’t go exactly as planned, but the team fought hard.

“We were able to pick up our first shoot-out win since I’ve been here in the last three years,” Ryan said. “It was a great last road trip as far as team bonding.”

The Wildcats lost, 3-2, Friday, Feb. 7 in the WCCHA Quarterfinal against UW-Eau Claire.

The weekend continued Saturday, Feb. 8, when NMU competed in the consolation series against Minnesota. The ’Cats fell behind early, but recovered quickly to end the first period with a 2-1 lead.

NMU held the lead until the third period, when the Gophers tied the game at two to end it.

After a five-minute overtime, the teams went into a shoot-out, which Trosien said was very close.

“Junior goalie Alex Latvala stopped all four of the Gophers’ attempts at goal,” Trosien said. “He set the stage for senior team captain Evan Weber to play the hero and get the ’Cats a well-deserved win.”

Weber’s goal during the shoot-out was the only one scored, giving the Wildcats the 3-2 victory.

This weekend, NMU has canceled its games against UW-Superior.

The ’Cats will instead host MTU at 11 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 23, in Berry Events Center for the Wildcat Senior Day.

Among the seniors being recognized is Weber. Trosien said he couldn’t be more proud of his achievements.

“Weber was the hero on Saturday, scoring the shoot-out winner,” Trosien said. “Evan is our captain, he is our leader and he showed why. You don’t replace an Evan Weber. I don’t think anyone doubted he was going to score. A most fitting end to an NMU career.”